Mounting your television on the wall is a great way to make the most out of your living room space, giving you a sleek, modern look that is both functional and stylish. By doing this, you will eliminate the need for a bulky TV stand, allowing you to free up space for other furnishings. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of setting up a TV wall mount, from choosing the right type of mount to securing your TV cables for an organized finish.
Choosing the Right Type of TV Wall Mount
The first step in setting up your TV wall mount is choosing the right type of mount. There are three primary types of mounts available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks:
- Fixed Wall Mounts
- Tilting Wall Mounts
- Full-Motion Wall Mounts
A fixed wall mount is perfect for those who want a low-profile, flush installation. These mounts are ideal for small rooms with limited space, but since they don’t allow for any movement, you need to be sure about the position and height you want for your TV.
A tilting wall mount, on the other hand, allows you to tilt your TV vertically, which can be useful if you want to alter the viewing angle of your TV. This option is also great if you want to mount your TV high on the wall, to reduce glare, or set it at an angle that is comfortable for you to view.
Full-motion wall mounts, also known as articulating wall mounts, offer the most flexibility of all the options mentioned. These mounts allow you to tilt and swivel your TV in any direction, giving you flexibility on where you can place your center of focus in the room.
It’s important to consider the weight and size of your TV when choosing a wall mount. Make sure the mount you choose is rated to support the weight and size of your TV. Additionally, consider the type of wall you will be mounting the TV on. If you have a plaster or drywall wall, you will need to use anchors to secure the mount properly. If you have a brick or concrete wall, you will need to use masonry screws and a drill to secure the mount.
The Tools You Need to Set Up a TV Wall Mount
The next step is making sure you have the right tools for the job. Most TV wall mounts come with simple instructions with an easy-to-assemble hardware kit that you can install in under an hour. Here are the tools you will need:
- Stud finder
- Tape measure
- Level
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver (or power screwdriver)
- Pencil
- Ladder (if necessary)
- Masking tape (optional)
It’s important to note that the weight and size of your TV will determine the type of wall mount you need. For larger TVs, you may need a mount that can support more weight and has a wider bracket. Additionally, if you have a curved TV, you will need a mount that is specifically designed for curved screens. Be sure to check the specifications of your TV and the mount before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
Measuring and Marking the Wall for the TV Wall Mount
Measuring and marking the wall is an essential step in making sure that your TV mount is perfectly level. First, locate the wall studs where you want to install your TV mount with a stud finder, and mark them boldly with a pencil or masking tape. For accuracy, be sure to double-check the width of your television and measure its height from the floor so you can get just the right position.
Once you have marked the wall studs, it’s time to measure the distance between them. This will help you determine the appropriate size of the mounting bracket that you need to use. You can use a tape measure to get the exact distance between the studs, and then choose a mounting bracket that fits that measurement.
It’s also important to consider the viewing angle when mounting your TV. You want to make sure that the TV is mounted at a height and angle that is comfortable for viewing. A good rule of thumb is to mount the TV at eye level when seated. This will help reduce neck strain and provide a better viewing experience.
Preparing the Wall for Installation of the TV Wall Mount
Before you install your TV wall mount, prepare the wall by removing any obstructions such as screws or nails, and clean the area with a soft cloth or brush. If you find rough spots or paint drips, sand them off using sandpaper until it is smooth. You can now proceed to mount the wall plate on the wall.
It is important to ensure that the wall you are mounting the TV on is strong enough to support the weight of the TV and the wall mount. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the weight limit of the wall mount and make sure the wall can handle it. If you are unsure, consult a professional to assess the wall’s strength and stability before proceeding with the installation.
How to Drill Holes for the TV Wall Mount
If you are installing your TV wall mount on a concrete or brick wall, you will need a hammer drill and masonry bit to make the holes. After you have drilled the holes, insert plastic anchors with an impact driver or hammer and tap the screw anchors to the wall with a hammer. Now you can mount the wall plate at the desired height and position. If installing on drywall, simply screw the wall plate on the wall stud or ceiling joist with the supplied screws.
It is important to ensure that the wall mount is securely attached to the wall to prevent any accidents or damage to your TV. Before drilling any holes, use a stud finder to locate the wall studs or ceiling joists. This will provide a strong anchor point for the wall mount. If you are unsure about the location of the studs or joists, consult a professional or use a mounting bracket that spans across multiple studs or joists.
Installing the TV Wall Mount into Drywall
If you are installing your TV wall mount on drywall, make sure you mount it on wall studs or ceiling joists for maximum stability. After identifying the right spot, use the included screws to fix the wall bracket in place.
Before drilling any holes, use a stud finder to locate the studs or joists behind the drywall. If you cannot find any studs or joists in the desired location, you may need to use toggle bolts or other types of anchors to secure the mount to the wall.
It is also important to ensure that the mount is level before drilling any holes. Use a level to check that the mount is straight, and make any necessary adjustments before securing it to the wall. Once the mount is in place, attach the TV to the bracket according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Installing the TV Wall Mount into Concrete or Brick Walls
If you are drilling into concrete or brick, use a masonry drill bit and masonry screws to attach the TV mount to the wall. Remember to use the proper anchors to ensure that the mount is stable and safe for your television.
Before drilling into the wall, make sure to locate any electrical wires or plumbing pipes that may be hidden behind the wall. You can use a stud finder or hire a professional to help you locate these potential hazards.
It is also important to consider the weight of your TV and the weight capacity of the mount. Make sure to choose a mount that can support the weight of your TV and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Attaching the TV Bracket to Your Television Set
After installation of the wall mount, attach the TV bracket to your television set using the screws that come with your TV and the wall bracket. Be sure to confirm the weight capacity of your bracket before starting the installation of your TV.
It is important to note that the size of your TV should also be taken into consideration when attaching the bracket. Make sure that the bracket is compatible with the size of your TV and that it is centered properly on the wall mount.
Additionally, it is recommended to have a second person assist with the installation of the TV onto the bracket. This will ensure that the TV is properly aligned and secure on the bracket, reducing the risk of it falling or becoming damaged.
Hanging Your Television on the Installed TV Wall Mount
When the TV bracket is correctly attached to the TV, hang your TV on the wall mount by positioning it over the wall plate and lowering it down carefully until the brackets click into place.
It is important to ensure that the wall mount is securely attached to the wall before hanging your TV. Use a level to make sure the mount is straight and use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall for added support. If you are unsure about the installation process, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional.
Adjusting Your Television Set on the Mounted Bracket
Now that your TV is mounted, adjust it until it is perfectly level and centered to your liking in the room. Make sure that the viewing angle is right, lower or tilt it if necessary.
It is also important to consider the lighting in the room when adjusting your TV. If there is a lot of glare or reflection on the screen, try adjusting the angle of the TV or adding curtains or blinds to the windows to reduce the amount of light coming in.
Additionally, if you have a soundbar or other audio equipment, make sure it is properly positioned and connected to your TV. This will ensure that you have the best audio experience while watching your favorite shows or movies.
Securing Your TV Cables and Wires After Installation
Organize your cables and wire by making sure they are neatly tucked away to avoid hanging freely on the wall. You can purchase wire covers or use electrical tape to secure the cables in place.
Tips for Proper Maintenance of Your Mounted Television Set
Finally, after getting your television mounted on the wall, you should avoid scratching or damaging the screen. Make sure you avoid using any harsh cleaning solutions or cleaning it with moist towels. It is best to use a microfiber cloth to clean your TV gently.
With a little preparation, the right tools, and step-by-step instructions, anyone can successfully install a TV wall mount themselves. And by doing so, you will have a comfortable and stylish viewing experience, with more space to move around and relax in your living room.