Buzz
A comprehensive tutorial on mounting your TV to the wall, covering positioning and cable management.
Procedures
Steps
Procedures
Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your TV
Find the Right Wall Mount for Your TV There are various types of wall mounts available, including those that keep your TV flush against the wall, ones that tilt in different directions, and others that swivel completely. Determine your preference before shopping and ensure the mount can support your TV's weight.
- For compatibility, consider buying from the same manufacturer as your TV.
- Alternatively, search online for quality mounts by entering “wall mount” followed by your TV model.
- Most mounts are adjustable to fit different TV sizes, so focus on weight capacity.
Locate Wall Studs Using a Stud Finder Utilize a stud finder to pinpoint the studs in the wall, indicating where to drill for the mount. Run the stud finder along the desired mounting area, marking stud locations with a pencil.
- Confirm stud placement by tapping the wall—if you hear a higher pitch, you've found a stud.
- Studs provide the strongest support; mounting directly onto drywall risks instability.
Determine TV Mounting Height The typical height for wall-mounted TVs is approximately 42 inches (110 cm) from floor to screen center. Situate yourself on a couch or chair to gauge eye level on the wall, marking the desired height with a pencil or painter's tape.
- Consider having two individuals hold the TV against the wall while a third assesses placement from seating.
Plan Cord Concealment Concealing TV cords is essential for wall-mounted setups. Use a cord cover to hide them discreetly, or enlist professional help to embed them within the wall.
- While DIY cord installation is feasible, hiring a professional minimizes the risk of wall damage.
Marking Drill Points
Positioning Drill Holes with a Template Most TV mounts include a template for precise hole placement. Alternatively, hold the mount against the wall to mark hole locations.
- Secure the template with painter's tape if desired.
Ensure Alignment Using a Level Place a level along the template or mount to verify its straightness. Align the level with the top edge of the template or mount, adjusting until it's perfectly level.
Mark Drill Hole Locations Once the template or mount is aligned, use a pencil to mark where the drill holes will be. If using a template, follow the guide provided. Check alignment with the level before proceeding.
- If alignment is off, readjust the template or mount until level before marking drill points.
Drill Bolt Holes Utilize an electric drill to create precise holes for the bolts according to your markings. Proceed slowly to ensure accuracy and alignment.
- Refer to the installation instructions for recommended drill bit sizes and hole depths.
Mounting and Cable Connection
Secure the Wall Mount Position the wall mount correctly against the wall, then insert and tighten the bolts into the pre-drilled holes. Begin by loosely setting all bolts before securing them tightly with a socket wrench.
- Ensure you're using the appropriate bolts or screws provided with your mount.
Mount the Second Part of the Bracket onto Your TV Attach the second part of the mount to the back of your TV using screws and a screwdriver. Ensure proper alignment with the screw holes on the TV and refer to the instructions for guidance.
- Use a screwdriver instead of a drill to prevent damaging the TV.
Ensure All Screws and Bolts are Secure Double-check the tightness of all bolts on the wall mount and screws on the TV to ensure they are secure. Use a screwdriver for the TV screws to avoid causing damage.
- If you can't tighten the bolts or screws further, they're likely secure.
Hang the TV on the Wall With the help of a friend or family member, mount the TV onto the wall by attaching both parts of the mount. Lift the TV carefully and connect the two mount pieces as instructed.
- For most mount models, this involves aligning the pieces before securing them with additional screws or tightening devices.
Connect the Cords to the TV Follow the instructions to attach the cords to the TV, allowing it to power on. If cords are hidden in the wall, simply plug them into the TV. Otherwise, use a cord-hider to conceal them.
- If unsure, consult online resources or the instruction manual for a wiring diagram.
Completion
Essential Tools
- Stud finder
- TV mount with necessary hardware
- Pencil
- Screwdriver
- Drill and drill bits
- Level
- Socket wrench
Helpful Tips
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Consider purchasing longer cables for your television than you anticipate needing—8 ft (2.4 m) is typically sufficient.
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Many retailers offering televisions also provide professional TV mounting services upon request.
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If mounting a TV on a plaster wall, ensure it is securely anchored to the wooden support beam inside the wall.
Important Warnings
- Avoid mounting your television above the fireplace, as the heat emitted can potentially damage the TV.
- Opting for drywall anchors to secure your television on the wall isn't recommended as it may lack stability and result in the TV falling.
