How to Mount a TV: View These 4 Easy Steps

Suffering from “tech neck” due to viewing your TV from the wrong angle? Looking to streamline the appearance of your entertainment space? Want to maximize the comfort level of your TV viewing experience?

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This advice is what you need: How to mount a flat-screen. Mounting a TV can be a relatively simple task, as long as you pre-plan with the right tools. Here’s how to get the job done.

Before You Begin

You’ll need to have a mounting bracket for your television set. While some new TVs come with their own mounting hardware, in many cases, you’ll need to purchase your own. Typically, mounts are available in a size range — say, from 32 to 55 inches — so know the size of your TV screen and match that size accordingly.

In addition to purchasing the correct size mount, you’ll also want to decide what type of wall mount is best for your space. Although it might seem overwhelming with all of the brands and models to choose from, there are really just three main types of TV wall mounts:

• A low-profile TV mount is the most basic option available. With this type, your TV is set closer to the wall, but it won’t tilt or have any swivel options.
• A tilting TV mount allows you to tilt your TV a few degrees forward. It’s a great option if your TV is mounted higher than eye level, like over a fireplace.
• A full-motion TV mount is the most versatile mount type. With this type, you can swivel, pan and extend the TV, which will give you the perfect viewing angle in any seated situation.

Things You’ll Need

• Cordless drill (with a screwdriver bit)
• Level
• Stud finder
• Pencil
• Painter’s tape
• Screws and anchors

While this is a basic list of the tools you’ll need for the project, you may need additional items depending on the type of wall that you have. For example, if you are installing a TV mount on a brick or concrete wall, you’ll need to make sure you use a drill bit and anchors designed specifically for masonry projects. Fortunately, TVs can be mounted on pretty much any wall type, and the method of installation is basically the same.

Lastly, keep in mind that mounting instructions vary according to the type of TV mount you have. Make sure that you consult the directions included with the mounting hardware before you get too far along in the project.

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How to Mount a TV on the Wall

Step 1: Determine the Right Spot

When it comes to mounting a flat-panel TV, there’s really not a “correct” spot for the TV to hang. In other words, find the spot that best suits your preferences and go from there.

However, there are several important considerations to make before you start mounting. Firstly, think about how high you want your TV to be. Although it may seem like a good idea to hang a TV above a fireplace, mounting one too high can lead to a sore neck and strained eyes over time. The best viewing height is for the screen to be centered at eye level while seated.

Once you think you’ve found the best location for your TV, measure your TV and mark the outline on the wall with painter’s tape and see how it looks.

Step 2: Find the studs

Another crucial step to take before you begin mounting is to determine if your wall can bear the weight of the TV. Flat-screen TVs can weigh anywhere from 30 to 100 pounds, depending on their size. That’s why it is important to always screw into wall studs when mounting. If you don’t, your anchors won’t hold, and you’ll end up permanently damaging your TV and your wall. Use a stud finder to find the two studs that will support your TV and mark the location with a pencil. If you’re mounting to a brick wall, you won’t need to locate studs, but you will need a masonry bit on your drill and some concrete anchors.

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Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes

Pilot holes are the small, pre-drilled holes where you’ll insert your mounting screws. They’re typically 1/8 inch smaller than the mounting screws themselves. Hold the mount up to the wall and, using a level, make sure the mount is straight and mark inside the mounting holes where you’ll drill the pilot holes. Then, remove the mount and drill the pilot holes.

Step 4: Mount the TV

Once the pilot holes are drilled, screw the mount to the wall with the included mounting screws. First, hold the mount back up to the wall, align it with the pilot holes and screw it to the wall. Then, once the mount has been fastened to the wall, you’ll want to attach the mounting plate to your TV. Please note that you’ll definitely want to remove the TV stand if you haven’t already done so, as leaving the stand attached will negatively impact your installation. After you’ve attached the mounting plate, lift the TV and attach the plate (and the attached TV) to the mounting bracket. You’ll probably want the help of a friend or family member to help lift and steady the TV as you hang it.

Once the TV is hung, be sure to plug it in and connect any necessary peripherals, like a Roku, Apple TV or DVD player. Also, make sure to reattach your cable if that’s how you watch your programming. Then, all that’s left is to grab your favorite snack, hop on the sofa and enjoy your new TV viewing experience.