How to Wall-Mount Your TV: A Comprehensive Guide

TV Wall Mounting

There is no better way to elevate your living room than by moving that big TV from a stand and onto a wall. Wall-mounting a TV may seem daunting, but if your space allows it, you can reclaim precious real estate on your entertainment center and help your living area feel more open and airy. Additionally, wall-mounting your TV can keep it out of reach from meddlesome children or rambunctious pets.

All it takes are some basic tools, a bit of labor, and a buddy to help lift larger TVs. Here’s all you need to prepare yourself for this project.

LG OLED TV

Get Ready

Pick a Wall Mount

TV wall mounts are widely available, with numerous models from various brands. Retailers like Amazon offer a plethora of options, and even Amazon Basics sells some.

The first things you want to look for are the size of TV a mount is rated for and how much weight it can hold. Check the technical specifications of your exact TV model and ensure you are well within the mount’s range.

Additionally, double-check the VESA sizing of your TV to ensure compatibility with the wall mount. VESA mount sizes correspond to the distance between the bolt connector holes on the rear of your TV.

Another important consideration is the type of wall you will be mounting the TV on. Ensure that the wall is sturdy enough to support the weight of the TV and the mount. If you are mounting on drywall, locate the studs behind the wall for secure installation.

Gather Your Tools

Before you begin the installation, gather the necessary tools. You will typically need:

  • Stud finder
  • Level
  • Drill
  • Screwdriver
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Socket wrench (if required)

Having these tools on hand will make the installation process smoother and more efficient.

Prepare the Wall

Once you have selected the wall and gathered your tools, it’s time to prepare the wall for mounting. Use the stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. Mark their locations with a pencil. This step is crucial, as mounting the TV directly into the studs will provide the necessary support.

Next, use the level to ensure that your marks are straight. This will help prevent your TV from being mounted at an angle, which can be visually unappealing.

Install the Wall Mount

Follow the instructions provided with your wall mount to install it correctly. Generally, the process involves:

  1. Aligning the mount with the marks you made on the wall.
  2. Drilling pilot holes into the studs.
  3. Securing the mount to the wall using the provided screws and a socket wrench.
  4. Double-checking that the mount is level before tightening all screws.

It’s advisable to have a friend assist you during this step, especially when lifting the TV onto the mount.

Attach the TV to the Mount

With the wall mount securely in place, it’s time to attach the TV. This process typically involves:

  1. Attaching the mounting brackets to the back of the TV, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. Carefully lifting the TV and aligning it with the wall mount.
  3. Securing the TV to the mount, ensuring that all locking mechanisms are engaged.

Once the TV is mounted, take a moment to check that it is secure and level. Adjust if necessary.

Connect Your Devices

After successfully mounting your TV, it’s time to connect your devices. This may include:

  • Streaming devices
  • Game consoles
  • Sound systems
  • Cable boxes

Ensure that all cables are neatly organized and that you have access to the ports on the TV. Consider using cable management solutions to keep everything tidy and out of sight.

Final Touches

Once everything is connected, power on your TV and test all devices to ensure they are functioning correctly. Adjust the settings on your TV for optimal viewing experience.

Finally, take a step back and admire your work. Wall-mounting your TV not only enhances the aesthetics of your living space but also provides a more enjoyable viewing experience.

For more detailed information on wall mounting and product recommendations, visit Read the full story at The Verge..