Flat screen televisions have become increasingly popular over the years because of their clear and crisp image quality. But for that perfect viewing experience, you need to mount it properly on the wall. In this article, we’ll go over all the steps you need to take to mount your TV neatly on your wall. So, let’s get started!
The Benefits of Mounting a Flat Screen TV
Mounting your flat screen TV can have a lot of benefits. Not only does it free up floor space in your room, but it also makes viewing more comfortable by keeping your TV at eye level. Additionally, a wall-mounted TV not only gives a sleek and modern look to your room, but it also keeps your children and pets away from it, minimizing the risk of damage.
Another benefit of mounting a flat screen TV is that it can improve the overall sound quality of your viewing experience. When a TV is mounted on the wall, it is easier to position speakers around it, creating a more immersive sound experience. This is especially important for those who enjoy watching movies or sports games with high-quality sound effects.
Choosing the Right Wall Mount for Your TV
The first and foremost step is to choose the right wall mount. There are different types of wall mounts available in the market, such as fixed mounts, tilting mounts, and full-motion mounts. Fixed mounts keep your TV securely in place, while tilting mounts allow you to angle the TV up or down. Full-motion mounts give you the most viewing flexibility, allowing you to adjust the angle of the TV in any direction.
When choosing a mount, you must also make sure that it can support the weight and size of your TV. You can check the TV’s user manual or look online to determine its VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) size and weight. The mount’s VESA pattern and weight capacity should be compatible with your TV’s specifications.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a wall mount is the location where you want to install it. You should choose a wall that is sturdy enough to support the weight of the TV and the mount. It is also important to consider the viewing angle and distance from the TV to the seating area. You want to make sure that the TV is mounted at a comfortable height and angle for optimal viewing.
Lastly, you should also consider the installation process and whether you want to do it yourself or hire a professional. Some wall mounts come with easy-to-follow instructions and all the necessary hardware, while others may require more advanced installation skills. Hiring a professional can ensure that the mount is installed correctly and safely.
Tools and Materials Needed for Mounting Your TV
Before starting the installation process, you’ll need to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials for conducting the installation. You’ll need a drill, drill bits, screwdrivers, level, measuring tape, stud finder, and a pencil. You will also need the wall mount kit that should include all the screws, anchors, bolts, and other materials needed to mount your TV to the wall.
It’s important to note that the size and weight of your TV will determine the type of wall mount kit you need. For larger and heavier TVs, you’ll need a mount that can support the weight and size of your TV. Additionally, if you’re mounting your TV on a brick or concrete wall, you’ll need a masonry drill bit and anchors specifically designed for those types of surfaces. It’s always a good idea to double-check the instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer of your TV and wall mount kit to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials for a safe and successful installation.
Preparing Your Wall for TV Mounting
The next step is to prepare the wall where you want to mount your TV. Locate the wall studs using a stud finder so that you can mount the TV securely to the structural support of the wall. Use a pencil to lightly mark the center of each stud. Once you have located the studs, you can determine what type of wall fasteners you will need for installation.
Before you start drilling holes into your wall, it’s important to consider the placement of your TV. Take into account the height and viewing angle, as well as any potential glare or reflections from nearby windows or light sources. You may also want to consider hiding cables and wires for a cleaner look.
If you’re unsure about mounting your TV on your own, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional. They can ensure that your TV is mounted safely and securely, and can also provide advice on the best placement for optimal viewing.
Measuring and Marking the Proper Height and Placement for Your TV
Once you have determined the wall’s location and anchored the mount to the wall, it’s time to measure and mark the height at which you want to mount your TV. The ideal position for mounting a flat screen TV is at eye level when sitting, so it’s important to consider the height of your couch or seating arrangement when selecting the height for your TV. Use a level to ensure that the mount is straight and mark the spot on the wall where the mount will be anchored.
Another important factor to consider when measuring and marking the height and placement of your TV is the distance between the TV and the seating area. The distance should be proportional to the size of the TV screen. For example, if you have a 50-inch TV, the distance between the TV and the seating area should be around 8 feet. This will ensure that you have a comfortable viewing experience without straining your eyes or neck.
How to Run Cables and Wires Behind the Wall
To make sure that all cables and wires are neat and hidden, you can drill a hole in the wall and feed the wires through it. This will make your installation look professional and prevent any cables from getting in the way of your viewing pleasure. Make sure to leave sufficient slack in the cables to avoid any strain on connectors or jacks.
It is important to note that before drilling any holes in the wall, you should check for any electrical wiring or plumbing that may be present. It is also recommended to use a stud finder to locate any studs in the wall, as drilling through them can cause damage. Additionally, it is a good idea to label each cable or wire before feeding them through the hole, to make it easier to identify them later on if needed.
Installing the TV Wall Mount Bracket
The next step is to install the TV wall mount bracket itself. The bracket should be mounted flush with the wall or slightly tilted down if you have a tilting mount. Use the drill and screws provided in the kit to secure the bracket onto the wall. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and take your time during this step to ensure a secure and stable installation.
Once the bracket is securely mounted onto the wall, it’s time to attach the mounting plate to the back of your TV. Make sure to use the appropriate screws and follow the instructions provided in the kit. It’s important to have someone assist you during this step to hold the TV in place while you attach the mounting plate.
After the mounting plate is attached to the TV, carefully lift the TV and align it with the bracket on the wall. Double-check that the TV is level and secure before releasing it. Finally, test the TV to make sure it’s properly mounted and adjust the angle if necessary. Congratulations, you have successfully installed your TV wall mount bracket!
Attaching the TV to the Wall Mount
The final step is to attach the TV to the wall mount bracket. Carefully lift your TV and align it with the wall mount bracket. Make sure to tighten all screws and bolts to secure your TV in place. You may need to adjust the angle of the TV to ensure that it is level and correctly positioned for optimal viewing.
Before attaching the TV to the wall mount, it is important to ensure that the wall mount is securely attached to the wall. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall and attach the wall mount bracket to the studs for maximum stability. If you are unable to locate studs, use wall anchors to secure the bracket to the wall.
It is also important to consider the weight and size of your TV when selecting a wall mount bracket. Make sure that the bracket is rated to support the weight of your TV and that it is the appropriate size for your TV. Using an improperly sized or rated bracket can result in damage to your TV or the wall mount.
Adjusting the Viewing Angle of Your Mounted TV
If you have a tilting or full-motion mount, you can adjust the viewing angle of your mounted TV by using the brackets or gears provided by the manufacturer. Adjust your TV to your preferred viewing position and lock it into place.
It is important to note that the optimal viewing angle for your TV depends on the height at which it is mounted. If your TV is mounted too high, you may need to tilt it downwards to avoid neck strain. On the other hand, if your TV is mounted too low, you may need to tilt it upwards to avoid eye strain.
Additionally, if you have a room with windows or other sources of natural light, you may need to adjust the viewing angle of your TV to avoid glare. Tilting your TV slightly upwards or downwards can help reduce glare and improve your viewing experience.
Concealing Cables and Wires After Installation
To conceal your cables and wires, you can use cable ties to bundle and hold them together. You can also use a cable management kit, which includes tubing or sleeves that run along the length of the cables and hide them from view. The kit also includes clips that attach the tubing to the wall, keeping it in place.
Tips for Keeping Your Mounted TV Secure
Once your TV is mounted, it’s important to keep it secure. Be sure to tighten all screws and bolts after installation to prevent any unwanted movement. Avoid hanging items on or near your TV that could cause it to be knocked off the wall.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Wall-Mounted TVs
If you face any issues with your mounted TV, such as difficulty adjusting the angle or strange sounds coming from the wall, refer back to the manufacturer’s instructions to troubleshoot the problem. If you’re unable to resolve the issue or require additional help, you can contact a professional technician.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Newly Mounted Flat Screen TV
By following these simple steps, you can mount your flat screen TV neatly and enjoy amazing viewing experiences with perfect clarity. Don’t forget to consult the manufacturer’s instructions and seek help if you face any problems during installation. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your newly mounted TV!