Thinking of getting a wall-mounted TV? When mounted on the wall, a flat screen TV looks stylish and works wonders for saving space. It’s a must-have if you want to set up a home theater with a big screen. It’s not too hard to attach a wall mount, but there are some things to consider before getting started. To mount a TV on the wall safely and effectively, here are five general steps to keep in mind.
- Choose the right wall mount bracket for your TV.
- Locate the studs in the wall and mark the position of the bracket.
- Drill holes into the wall and attach the bracket to the wall.
- Attach the mounting plate to the back of your TV.
- Hang the TV on the bracket.
Calculating TV Height
You may be wondering where exactly to put the TV on the wall. It’s best to mount the TV at eye level for optimal viewing . The ideal height depends on one critical measurement: the center of the TV screen. Most experts use the center of the TV screen as the main point of reference, no matter the screen size. Unless you’re mounting a TV for just one person to use, keeping the center of the TV at a comfortable average viewing height for most people should be the goal.
Forty-two inches (42″) from the floor to the center of the screen is the ideal TV mount height under most circumstances. However, for tailored comfort, you can actually factor in your height, and the height of fellow household members, into your TV’s height from the floor. You’ll find a more exact center point for your TV mount by measuring the distance from the floor to each household member’s eye level when sitting. Add those measurements together and divide by the total number of people for your desired TV wall mount height.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When mounting a TV, there are several mistakes that you should avoid to ensure a safe and successful installation. Here are five common mistakes to avoid:
1. Positioning the TV too high or too low on the wall.
If the TV is too low, it will be difficult to see from where you’re sitting. Place it too high, and you’ll have to sit with your neck at an uncomfortable angle as you watch it. In most cases, positioning the middle of the screen about 42 inches off the floor should place the TV at eye level and help you avoid having to contort your neck to watch it. However, while this is a general rule, there will be times when you’ll want to stray from these recommendations. An adjustable mount can allow you to tilt the screen to the best angle depending on where you’re sitting.
2. Not installing it into wooden studs.
Even flat screen TVs are heavy. When you’re hanging one on the wall, it is essential to mount it into the studs. Hollow wall anchors will not offer sufficient support, and your TV will likely fall off of the wall, potentially injuring someone or breaking the screen. Start by using a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. Then, mark their location with some chalk or a pencil.
3. Not considering the sun exposure.
Before mounting your TV, make sure that the location is not in the direct angle of the sun’s glare. Otherwise, you might have to keep your curtain shut to watch the TV.
4. Not using the right wall mount bracket for your TV.
Choosing the right wall mount bracket for your TV is crucial. If you’re unsure, consult the TV’s manual or the manufacturer’s website.
5. Not checking the level of the TV.
A crooked TV can be annoying to watch. Use a level to ensure that the TV is straight before tightening the screws.
Mounting Brackets
Or not sure which one to choose? There are a few different types suited to various purposes.
Fixed –
Tilting – A tilting TV bracket is a great option if you’ll be mounting your TV over a fireplace, in the bedroom, or anywhere that’s above eye level. With the ability to tilt your TV screen downward nearly 45 degrees, a tilting TV wall mount allows you to get an optimal viewing angle without having to crane your neck to see your TV. It also helps to counter reflections and glare from windows and lamps.
Articulating – A full motion TV mount provides the most versatility due to its multiple pivot points which allow you to extend, tilt, swivel, and even rotate your TV. This is especially helpful if you want to mount your TV in a corner or recessed space, or if you like to view your TV from multiple seating areas in a room. And, when you’re done viewing, you can simply push the TV flat against the wall again.
Cable Management
Now, what to do about the cables? Hiding the cables of a wall-mounted TV can be a great way to keep your space looking neat and organized. Besides, cables hanging down from the TV can be unsightly and pose a tripping hazard. Here are your options:
- An in-wall cable management kit is a great option if you want to hide the cables inside the wall so that you have a totally blank space around your screen.
- A cable raceway is a great option if you don’t want to cut holes in the wall. It’s a plastic or metal channel that attaches to the wall, and you can run the cables through it. You can then paint the raceway to match the wall color.
- If you don’t want to cut holes in the wall and don’t want to paint a raceway, consider using a cable cover, which is a flexible tube that attaches to the wall with adhesive strips, and you can run the cables through it.
- At the very least, use cable ties, magnetic ties, silicone ties, or zip ties.
Video Tutorials
Here are a couple of helpful videos that will show you how to attach a wall-mounted TV.