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How to Mount a TV and How to Determine if You Should
October 8, 2021 *
Wall mounts for TV sets can save space and add a touch of contemporary elegance to any room. At the same time, they may solve some problems and generate others. Alternatives to wall mounting might include special TV stands or entertainment centers.
What to Ponder Before Deciding to Mount a TV on the Wall
As covered by CNET, TV owners should create a plan to mount a TV on the wall and to help them decide if it’s even a good idea. Make sure the plan covers these considerations:
- How will external components and accessories fit into the plan? If external game systems or speakers need cords to connect to the TV, will the set’s placement allow for that? Will mounting the TV on the wall make it tough to access ports to attach or detach components in the future?
- Will dangling cords create an unattractive and possibly unsafe nuisance? Some companies make cord covers that help mask and control cords. A professional can hide the cords in the wall, but that costs money and will generate even more bills to change the arrangement.
- Can the wall support the weight? Even though TVs weigh less than they used to, they still weigh considerably more than framed paintings or posters. The wall mount will require a stud to provide enough support.
Another consideration might include owning the right tools, such as a drill, level, and stud finder. Sometimes, home improvement stores rent tools. On the other hand, pro installers will bring their own tools and may offer advice about the best placement and kind of wall mount.
As an example, a fixed mount may make it impossible to access ports without taking the TV down, but a tilting or full-motion mount should make it easy to get to the back of the TV. Also, many speakers and other components support wireless connections, so it’s a prudent idea to consider mounting alternatives before buying accessories.
How to Mount a TV on the Wall
Home Depot offers a video and text guide for DIY types. A professional installer will perform the work, but the TV owner should still understand the process in order to ensure they feel satisfied with the results. The price of professional installation may depend upon the size and type of TV, but the cost may range from $150 to $600. Retailers may offer specials that reduce or cover the cost of wall mounting.
Home Depot estimates the task should take less than two hours and only require beginner-level skills. That estimate should not minimize the importance of doing the job correctly, though. You should avoid damaging the TV or wall, injuries, or eventual dissatisfaction with the TV set’s position.
This guide gives readers an idea of the steps they should include in their own wall-mounting plan:
- Choose a type of TV mount: Choose between fixed, full-motion, or tilting wall mounts. Fixed mounts take up the least space and usually cost less, but they only let the TV sit in one position against the wall. Fixed mounts might also make it impossible to access the back of the TV without removing it from the mount.
- Choose the position: This critical decision will impact the viewing angle of the set. It might help to tape a piece of paper to the wall to gauge this before deciding. Also, the position needs to rest in front of a stud. The position also needs to account for the placement of corded accessories. Very often, people mount TV sets above a shelf or stand that they can use to hold components.
- Locate studs and mark pilot holes: Ideally, locate the studs before determining the position. After figuring out the perfect height for mounting, measure the distance between the mounting holes and mark them with a pencil. Use a level to ensure they’re even and horizontal.
- Check the mount or braces and drill pilot holes: Get a friend to hold the mount while using the level one more time to check its position. Make pilot holes in the studs with a drill.
- Secure the mount to the wall: Again, ask a friend to hold the mount. Use a drill to set the mount with screws and check one more time to ensure everything’s level.
- Attach mounting plates to the TV set: The TV’s manufacturer should provide instructions, and this might vary, depending on the type of TV or type of mount.
- Mount the TV: This step may also require assistance because of the weight and shape of larger TVs. Check to ensure the mount feels secure. Use cord covers to control and hide visible cords.
What’s the Best TV Warranty?
Once a homeowner goes to all the trouble to buy and properly mount a TV, they won’t count on encountering any additional hassles. Still, such issues as power shorts, screen burn-in, and connectivity problems may impact even high-quality sets. An Upsie TV extended warranty ensures prompt, in-home or local service from certified repair technicians.
Even better, Upsie doesn’t charge a deductible for TV repairs. They offer 24-7 claims with real humans, and they give customers up to 11 months to secure their TV protection after the TV purchase date. Spend time considering the proper way to mount a TV, and save time and stress by purchasing an Upsie warranty.
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* This article is over 6 months old and may or may not be updated.