Mounting a TV on a wall is a great way to save space and create a streamlined look in your home. However, improper mounting can lead to a number of issues, such as a wobbly TV, damage to your wall or TV, and even injuries. That’s why it’s important to ensure that your TV is mounted properly.
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when mounting a TV. Some common mistakes include choosing the wrong type of mount, installing the mount incorrectly, and not properly securing the TV to the mount. Additionally, many people forget to consider factors such as viewing angle, sunlight and glare, and accessibility for cords and cables.
The purpose of this article is to help you avoid common TV mounting mistakes and ensure that your TV is mounted safely and securely. We’ll provide tips on choosing the right mount, finding the right spot for your TV, proper installation techniques, wiring considerations, and final checks to ensure that your TV is mounted properly. By following these tips, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without worrying about the safety or stability of your TV mount.
Choosing the Right Mount
Mounting a TV on a wall starts with choosing the right mount. There are several types of mounts available, including fixed mounts, tilting mounts, and full-motion mounts. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the right mount for your TV and wall:
Types of mounts
Fixed Mounts – These mounts keep the TV stationary and close to the wall. They are ideal for rooms where the viewing angle is fixed and there is no need to adjust the TV’s position.
Tilting Mounts – These mounts allow you to tilt the TV up or down to adjust the viewing angle. They are ideal for rooms where the TV needs to be mounted high on the wall.
Full-Motion Mounts – These mounts offer the most flexibility, allowing you to tilt, swivel, and extend the TV. They are ideal for rooms where the viewing angle needs to be adjusted frequently.
Choosing the right mount for your TV and wall type
When choosing a mount, it’s important to ensure that it is compatible with your TV and wall type. Look for mounts that are designed to support your TV’s size and weight. Additionally, make sure that the mount is compatible with your wall type. For example, some mounts are designed for drywall, while others are designed for concrete or brick walls.
Weight capacity
Each mount has a weight capacity, which indicates the maximum weight it can support. It’s important to choose a mount with a weight capacity that exceeds the weight of your TV. This ensures that the mount can support the weight of your TV without sagging or failing. To find the weight of your TV, check the manufacturer’s specifications or consult the user manual.
Finding the Right Spot
Once you’ve chosen the right mount, it’s time to find the right spot for your TV. Here are some factors to consider:
Proper height and viewing angle
The height and viewing angle of your TV are important factors in ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience. As a general rule, the center of the TV screen should be at eye level when you are seated. Additionally, the TV should be angled slightly downward, so that the top of the screen is slightly closer to the wall than the bottom. This helps to reduce glare and improve the viewing experience.
Avoiding direct sunlight and glare
Direct sunlight can cause glare and make it difficult to see the TV screen. When choosing a spot for your TV, consider the location of windows and other sources of natural light. It’s best to avoid placing the TV in direct sunlight or near a window. If this is not possible, consider installing blackout curtains or using an anti-glare screen protector.
Accessibility for cords and cables
It’s important to ensure that the cords and cables connecting your TV to other devices are easily accessible. This makes it easier to connect and disconnect devices and can also help to reduce clutter. When choosing a spot for your TV, consider the location of power outlets and other devices, such as cable boxes or game consoles. Additionally, consider using cable ties or cord covers to keep cords neat and organized.
Installation
Now that you’ve chosen the right mount and found the perfect spot for your TV, it’s time to install the mount. Here are some tips to ensure a proper installation:
Checking for studs and using a level
Before you install the mount, use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. Studs provide the best support for your TV and ensure that the mount is properly secured. Once you’ve located the studs, use a level to ensure that the mount is straight and level.
Proper tools and hardware
Make sure that you have all the necessary tools and hardware before you start the installation. This may include a drill, screwdriver, and wrenches. Additionally, make sure that you are using the right size and type of screws for your mount and wall type. Using the wrong screws can cause the mount to fail or damage the wall.
Double-checking the mount’s security
Once the mount is installed, double-check that it is securely attached to the wall and the TV. Give the mount a firm shake to ensure that it doesn’t wobble or shift. Additionally, check that the TV is properly attached to the mount and that there are no loose or missing screws. If you’re not sure if the mount is secure, it’s best to contact a professional installer for assistance.
Wiring
Once your TV is mounted and secured, the next step is to deal with the wiring. Here are some things to consider:
Importance of hiding wires
A tangled mess of wires can detract from the clean look of your mounted TV. Hiding wires can improve the appearance of your TV setup and reduce the risk of tripping hazards. Additionally, hiding wires can protect them from damage or wear and tear over time.
Types of wiring solutions
There are several types of wiring solutions available, including raceway molding, in-wall cable management kits, and cord covers. Raceway molding is a plastic or metal channel that covers wires and can be painted to match the wall. In-wall cable management kits are designed to be installed behind the wall and provide a clean, hidden look. Cord covers are adhesive strips that attach to the wall and can be painted to match the wall color.
Safety considerations
When dealing with wiring, it’s important to consider safety. Make sure that all electrical connections are properly grounded and that there are no exposed wires. Additionally, avoid running wires through walls that contain insulation or pipes, as this can create a fire hazard. If you’re not sure how to properly install wiring, it’s best to contact a professional electrician for assistance.
Final Checks
Before you settle in to enjoy your newly mounted TV, it’s important to do some final checks:
Ensuring proper weight distribution
Make sure that the weight of the TV is evenly distributed on the mount. Uneven weight distribution can cause the mount to fail over time or damage the wall.
Testing viewing angles and glare
Once the TV is mounted, test the viewing angles and glare from different parts of the room. Make adjustments as needed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience.
Final inspection of the mount and wiring
Do a final inspection of the mount and wiring to ensure that everything is properly installed and secure. This can help to prevent future problems and ensure that your TV setup stays in good condition for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper TV mounting is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience. By avoiding common mistakes and following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your TV is securely mounted, properly wired, and positioned for optimal viewing. Remember to choose the right mount for your TV and wall type, find the right spot for your TV, install the mount properly, deal with wiring, and do some final checks before settling in to watch your favourite shows. By doing so, you can enjoy your TV with confidence and peace of mind. You can also check out our article to learn about the benefits of using a TV mounting service. Additionally, you might need to know what to look for in a provider.