Are you tired of your TV taking up valuable surface space? Or maybe you just want to give your living room a sleek, elevated look? Whatever the reason, making your own TV mount might be the perfect solution. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at why DIY TV mounts are a great idea, the tools and materials you’ll need, and a step-by-step guide to making your very own mount. So let’s get started!
Why Make Your Own TV Mount?
The main reason to make your own TV mount is the cost savings. Buying a pre-built mount can easily set you back anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the size and materials used. By making your own, you can save a considerable amount of money. Additionally, building your own mount allows you to customize the look and size of the mount to fit your specific needs and design preferences.
Another advantage of making your own TV mount is the satisfaction of completing a DIY project. Building something with your own hands can be a rewarding experience and can give you a sense of accomplishment. It can also be a fun and creative way to spend your time, especially if you enjoy working with tools and materials.
Tools and Materials Needed for TV Mounting
Before we can start building, let’s take a quick look at the tools and materials you’ll need. Depending on your preferences, the list might vary, but here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Saw
- Sandpaper
- Pencil
- Level
- Wooden board for the mounting plate
- Mounting bracket for your TV
- Wall anchors and screws
- Bolts, nuts, and washers for attaching the plate to the bracket
- Paint or stain for finishing
It’s important to note that the size and weight of your TV will also determine the type of mounting bracket you’ll need. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications for your TV to ensure you purchase the correct bracket. Additionally, if you’re mounting your TV on a plaster or drywall surface, you may need to use toggle bolts instead of standard wall anchors to ensure a secure hold. Always double-check your measurements and use caution when drilling into walls to avoid damaging electrical or plumbing systems.
How to Choose the Right Location for Your TV
Choosing the right location for your TV mount is crucial. Consider factors such as the viewing angle, lighting, and wall material. You want to choose a location where the TV can be easily viewed from your seating area and where there is little to no glare from natural light. Once you’ve selected a spot, use your measuring tape and level to mark the wall where your mount bracket will go.
Another important factor to consider when choosing the right location for your TV is the distance between the TV and your seating area. The ideal distance for comfortable viewing depends on the size of your TV. As a general rule, the distance should be about 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal screen size of your TV. For example, if you have a 50-inch TV, the distance between the TV and your seating area should be between 75 and 125 inches.
It’s also important to consider the height at which you mount your TV. The center of the screen should be at eye level when you’re seated. This will help prevent neck strain and ensure a comfortable viewing experience. If you’re mounting your TV above a fireplace, make sure to take into account the height of the mantel and the distance between the mantel and the ceiling.
Measuring and Marking Your Wall for the TV Mount
Measure the width and height of your TV and transfer those measurements onto your mounting board. Mark where the screw holes for the bracket will go on the board and then pre-drill holes for the screws. Sand the edges of the board for a smooth surface.
Before mounting the board onto the wall, use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. Mark the location of the studs on the wall with a pencil. This will ensure that the board is securely attached to the wall and can support the weight of the TV. Use a level to make sure the board is straight before attaching it to the wall. Once the board is securely attached to the wall, attach the bracket to the board using the screws and washers provided. Finally, attach the TV to the bracket according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Cutting and Preparing the Wood for the Mounting Plate
Using your saw, cut the board to the desired size and shape. Sand the cut edges to remove any roughness or jaggedness. Then, either paint or stain the board if you desire to match it with your living room decor.
It is important to note that the type of wood you choose can affect the overall strength and durability of the mounting plate. Hardwoods such as oak or maple are recommended for heavier items, while softer woods like pine may not hold up as well over time. Consider the weight and size of the item you plan to mount before selecting your wood.
Assembling the Wooden Mounting Plate
Attach the bracket to the wooden plate using bolts, nuts, and washers. Make sure the bracket is securely fastened to the plate and double-check for stability and alignment.
It is important to note that the size and length of the bolts, nuts, and washers used to attach the bracket to the wooden plate will depend on the thickness of the plate and the weight of the object being mounted. It is recommended to consult a hardware store or a professional for guidance on selecting the appropriate hardware for your specific project.
Drilling Holes in the Wall for the TV Mount Bracket
Use your drill to make holes in the wall where you marked the screw holes for the bracket. Insert wall anchors into each hole, and then attach the bracket with screws.
Before drilling, make sure to check for any electrical wires or plumbing behind the wall. You can use a stud finder or a wire detector to locate any potential hazards. It’s important to avoid drilling into these areas to prevent damage or injury.
Once you have drilled the holes and inserted the wall anchors, use a level to ensure that the bracket is straight before attaching it with screws. This will ensure that your TV is mounted securely and won’t tilt or fall off the wall.
Attaching the Bracket to the Wall with Anchors and Screws
Insert your screws into the wall anchors and then attach the bracket. Make sure the bracket is level and secure before proceeding.
It is important to choose the right type of anchor for your wall. If you are attaching the bracket to drywall, use plastic anchors. For concrete or brick walls, use metal anchors. This will ensure that the bracket is securely attached to the wall and can hold the weight of the object you are hanging.
Before drilling any holes, use a stud finder to locate any studs in the wall. If the bracket can be attached to a stud, this will provide the strongest support. If there are no studs in the desired location, use anchors to secure the bracket to the wall.
Attaching the Wooden Plate to the Bracket with Bolts and Washers
Now it’s time for the final step: attaching the wooden plate to the bracket. Insert bolts through the mounting holes on the bracket and then through the matching holes on the wooden plate. Tighten the bolts with washers and nuts until the plate is completely secured to the bracket.
It’s important to make sure that the bolts are tightened evenly, so that the wooden plate is level and secure. Use a wrench to tighten the nuts, but be careful not to over-tighten them, as this can cause the wood to crack or split.
If you’re attaching a heavy object to the wooden plate, such as a shelf or a TV, it’s a good idea to use additional brackets or supports to distribute the weight evenly. This will help to prevent the wooden plate from sagging or breaking over time.
Securing Your TV to the Wooden Plate with Brackets or Straps
Finally, attach your TV to the wooden plate using brackets or straps. Make sure the TV is level and centered on the plate before tightening the brackets or straps.
It is important to choose the right type of brackets or straps for your TV. Check the weight and size specifications of your TV and make sure the brackets or straps can support it. You can find this information in the TV manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Additionally, consider the location of the wooden plate and the TV. If the TV is in a high traffic area or in a room with children or pets, you may want to consider using additional safety measures such as a TV safety strap or anchor kit to prevent the TV from tipping over.
Adjusting Your TV’s Angle and Position on the Mount
Now that your TV is attached to the mount, you can adjust the angle and position as needed. Test out different angles and heights until you find the perfect viewing position.
It’s important to consider the lighting in the room when adjusting your TV’s angle and position. If there is a lot of natural light coming in from a window, you may need to adjust the angle of the TV to avoid glare. Additionally, if you have overhead lighting, you may want to adjust the height of the TV to avoid any reflections on the screen. Take some time to experiment with different angles and positions to find the best viewing experience for your space.
Tips for Hiding Cables and Wires behind Your TV Mount
An easy way to make your DIY TV mount look even more professional is to regularly manage your cables and wires. This prevents them from dangling and getting tangled. Use cable ties or cable wraps to hold the cables and wires together. Also, consider hiding them behind the mount bracket or behind a cable conduit.
Finishing Touches: Painting or Staining Your DIY TV Mount
Finally, paint or stain your mount to give it the final touches. You can use a gloss spray or a clear polyurethane finish to protect the wooden plate.
And there you have it, with a few tools and some materials, you can create a cost-effective DIY TV mount that complements your living space. It may take some time to build, but the end result is definitely worth it. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your very own TV mount and enjoy some cinematic drama right from the comfort of your own home.