A Step-by-Step Guide to Securely Mounting a TV Between Wall Studs

Mounting a TV on the wall can be challenging without proper support. Hanging it directly on drywall risks damaging both the wall and the TV. However, a poorly positioned TV can be frustrating. Fortunately, a few straightforward techniques can help you achieve the perfect setup for your entertainment needs.

The Importance of Proper Support

Some mounting brackets advertise being “studless,” but hanging heavy items like a TV on drywall without anchoring to studs can cause the wallboard to detach from the frame. This damage might not be immediate, potentially leading to your TV crashing to the floor and taking part of the wall with it. To prevent this, securing your hardware to the wall frame and studs ensures a stable and durable installation.

Essential Tools and Materials

To mount a TV on your wall, gather a

stud finder, 1 5⁄8 inch drywall screws (avoid toggle bolts), a screw gun, a tape measure, and a countersink bit. You’ll also need a sturdy board that spans two studs to support the TV bracket. While most modern studs are 16 inches apart, older homes may have gaps up to 20 inches. A piece of 3⁄4 inch plywood, 1 by 4, or similar thickness material will suffice.

Measure, Mark, and Secure the Board

Start by locating the nearest studs and measuring the distance between them. To mount the bracket between studs, attach a board across them for support. Measure the desired height for the bracket and mark the studs at that level with a pencil. Align the board with the marks, ensuring it’s level, and use a countersink bit to pre-drill holes. Secure the board with drywall screws, aligning them with the stud marks.

For larger TVs, you may need two rows of boards to support the bracket. Measure the bracket’s height and mark the wall to determine board placement. If positioning is tricky, trace the bracket outline with a pencil for guidance. Check out this video for professional tips on installing backing or blocking on finished drywall. Our method involves mounting the board in front of the drywall, differing slightly from the video.

Secure Your TV Mounting Bracket

After creating a stable surface, follow the mounting bracket’s instructions or those provided with your TV to complete the installation. First, attach the bracket to the boards to ensure it’s level before mounting the TV. Adjustments are simpler without the TV’s weight. If the boards are visible, paint them to blend with the wall. When removing the TV, detach the bracket and unscrew the board, leaving only small holes that are easy to patch.