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If you’re looking for a way to save floor space, mounting your TV to the wall is an excellent alternative to an entertainment center or TV stand.
Before you go online to find a TV wall mount, there are a few important things to know about this convenient and durable hardware so you can ensure a smooth installation.
Read on to learn more about how to find the right wall mount for your needs, as well as what you need to know regarding installation.
In This Post:
Choosing the Proper TV Wall Mount Type
The type of TV wall mount that you choose will depend on several factors including the size of your television and what kind of walls you have. Not all walls are the same, so you may require a different type of mount that fits into drywall, plaster, or other material securely. Your TV mount type can also depend on the size of the room and how you want the television set to be angled.
A fixed mount is the most common type that most people use, and it fits snugly against the wall for direct viewing. This option is ideal if you plan to watch your television from one place at all times and don’t mind facing the TV directly.
Another option is a tilt-mount, which works great if you’re planning to mount the TV above a fireplace or in a bedroom. This mount type has a tilting mechanism that allows you to space the TV set around 2-inches from the wall. You can adjust the angle slightly to prevent neck strain and to reduce glare from windows and lights.
A full-motion TV mount is great for rooms where you may need to adjust the viewing angle. This mount has a swing-arm feature that allows you to move the entire television set to the side, the front, and up and down. It’s perfect for larger living areas where you have an open floor plan and may need to adjust your TV to suit your current needs.
If you have a brick wall, you can try a ceiling-mount option. This unique TV mount lets you attach the hardware from above, and then your television set “hangs” below it for easy viewing.
Mounting Your TV: The Next Steps
Once you’ve decided which type of TV wall mount you need, you should think about where it needs to go. Most people mount their televisions in the living room or bedroom, but you can also attach one to the wall in your kitchen or a home office.
Traditional wall mounts like the flat or tilting style work well over a fireplace or in a central location where people tend to gather. These mounts are great for watching television at any height, and they work well in homes where you entertain a lot of people.
If you need more flexibility, the full-motion option is best since you can move the TV set much wider or higher as-needed. After you select your TV mount, you’ll want to gather all the necessary tools before installation.
To mount your TV, you will need a drill and drill bits, a Phillips head screwdriver, a tape measure, socket wrench, and a wallboard saw (for homes with drywall). You can also choose to purchase a cable concealment kit which helps to keep unsightly cords out of view.
A level is also helpful to ensure your TV is mounted straight. A stud finder is also crucial since this will help you make sure you’re mounting the TV set securely so that the weight of the television doesn’t pull it off the wall.
Installing the New TV Wall Mount
Once you have all the tools and your new wall mount gathered together, it’s time to start the installation process. If you don’t feel confident installing it yourself, you might want to consider hiring a TV wall mounting service to help.
Choose your location for the TV, then choose the height you want the TV to be placed. Consider things like glare and neck strain when you select your location. You can use a pencil to mark several areas on the wall until you find the perfect spot.
Most TV wall mounts include a template, which you’ll need to use before you start to drill into the wall. Use this template to make your marks, making sure that you’ve also found the studs to ensure a secure, safe fit.
Drill pilot holes for the mounting bolts and then use your socket wrench to bolt the TV mount frame into place. If you’re opting to use a cable concealment kit, add this to the wall before you take the next step.
Attach the other hardware directly to the back of your TV according to the instructions. Make sure everything is tightly secured. Once the frame of the mount is installed and all hardware is applied, connect the power and TV cables before you hang the TV.
Enjoy Television in Any Room
Whether it’s your main living space or a cozy bedroom, installing a TV wall mount will make watching your favorite shows a lot more comfortable. This convenient hardware is a perfect solution for smaller homes or rooms where you want to save some extra floor space.
With the right tools and guidance, installing a mount for your TV set is easy. When in doubt, contact a professional that can help you get the job done safely.
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