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Post date: Apr 18, 2018 9:05:05 PM
Focusing in on Flat Screen Mounting - The Ins and Outs, Ups and Downs
Knowing a little beforehand can save a lot of money when it comes to mounting a flat panel TV. Cost of professional installation can run anywhere from $150-$350, depending on the size of the TV and where it is being installed. However, if you are up to some precision measuring and can handle driving a few screws, a couple good strong friends, you can do a good job mounting your new TV yourself in just a an hour or two.
Now, there’s no reason to get overwhelmed by all the different wall-mount makes and models. Really, they are all pretty much just variations of three basic styles. The primary difference between them is how much they allow you to adjust the TV’s screen. Adjustability is important for screen positioning for viewing, and important for picture quality. The picture on a TV screen is clearest when viewed straight on, just like you find with a computer monitor.
The majority of the wall plates, on commonly available mounts, will let you slide the TV to the left or right a few inches, so the plate doesn’t have to be perfectly centered where the TV will hang. However getting the plate at the perfect height often proves a bit trickier – taking some folks two or even three installations before they get it right. To avoid a wall full of screw holes, try this trick:
First, screw the brackets to the TV following the instructions. The screw holes in the back of the TV may be hidden by plastic plugs – just pry them off. Then hang the wall plate on the brackets so the complete mount is attached to the TV. Prop the TV against the wall and measure the distance from the bottom of the TV to the center of each row of mounting holes on the back plate. On the wall, measure the same distances up from the tape and make marks at the stud locations. Check the marks with a level to make sure they’re perfectly level horizontally.
Now drill your holes at the marks. The holes should be about 1/8 in. smaller than the lag screws. If the manufacturer didn’t include lag screws, check the instructions and pick up the recommended size at a hardware store or home center. Then just screw the plate to the wall using a ratchet wrench and socket.
Suggested Tools Needed For the Job
Have the necessary tools for this how to mount a TV DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
4-in-1 screwdriver
Adjustable wrench
Cordless drill
Drywall saw
Level
Socket/ratchet set
Electronic stud finder
Tape measure
Utility knife
Suggested Materials for this Project
So a mount that offers more adjustability gives you a clearer picture in more situations and could even increase your options for where you can place the TV within the room.Most flat TVs are designed to be a wall mounted TV but be double check that yours is before you shop for a mount. Look for “VESA” (Video Electronics Standards Association) on the manual or the TV itself, followed by a number such as “VESA 75” or "VESA 50". Any mount with the same VESA number will work with your TV. Also consider wiring before you choose a mount. If you plan to run wiring inside your walls, the mount design may determine how and where you can install an outlet and cable connections. As usual a little pre-planning can go a long way.
The single most common mistake made when selecting a location and placing a TV mount is placing it too high on the wall. Looking up at the screen can give picture that isn’t sharp, especially if you have a mount that doesn’t tilt. Not to mention the crick in the neck you might get from looking up at the TV! . Most experts recommend centering the screen at seated eye level, while some even say a bit lower is better, so eye level is centered on the top two-thirds of the TV where most of the on-screen action is. Remember, SEATED eye level!
There is no “correct” rule, so place it where it seems most comfortable for you. Remember that a lot depends on the size of the TV and the room. A big TV in a big room can be mounted higher on the wall because the upward viewing angle is decreased when you sit farther from the TV. So the best way to choose the mounting height is with a test drive. This is a three-person job—two to hold the TV and a third to judge the height. Simply get in your normal viewing position and look at the screen in different positions on the wall and say stop when you hit the optimum position.
Once you’ve found the right spot, mark the TV’s location on the wall with masking tape. Then set the TV aside and add more tape to mark the bottom edge of the TV on the wall. The tape needs to be perfectly level, so use your level to position it.
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Flat panel TV mount
Lag bolts (if not included in mounting kit)
Masking tape
Also locate the centers of the wall studs using an electronic stud finder, as the centers of studs provide maximum holding power, and TVs are a lot of weight to be supported. If your walls are brick, concrete, or cement, you can drive screws anywhere. Check the mount’s instructions for anchor recommendations.
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