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Carpenter Nathan Gilbert shows host Kevin O’Connor the proper way to hang a TV on a wall. After explaining the different types of wall mounts available, Nathan shows Kevin some helpful tips for locating studs. Then, the two discuss the hardware necessary for hanging a TV, highlighting the importance of matching the mount’s capacity to the TV’s size.
Types of TV Mounts
There are essentially three types of TV mounts: fixed, tilting, and full motion. Which mount would work best depends on the scenario.
- Fixed mounts are ideal for situations where the wall in front of the couch is unobstructed, allowing the TV to be mounted at a seated eye level.
- Tilting mounts are useful for scenarios where the TV will mount above a fireplace or mantle, as it can tilt down to improve the viewing angle.
- Full motion mounts work in scenarios where the sitting area is at an angle to the wall, or the homeowner would prefer a bit more flexibility.
How To Mount a TV
- Choose the mount type and mounting height. Ideally, the top of the TV will be no higher than eye level at standing height. In scenarios where this isn’t possible, a full-motion or tilting bracket will help. For most other situations, fixed mounts are fine.
- Locate the studs. Use a stud finder to locate and mark the stud locations on the wall’s surface. Mark two studs and measure between them to ensure that they’re 16 inches apart. A magnet will also help, as it will try to stick to the screws or nails that attach the drywall to the studs.
- Hold the edge of a level against each mark, and draw a plumb line on both studs. Hold the wall bracket in a level position so that a set of holes matches up with the plumb lines, and mark the hole locations.
- Use a power drill fitted with a standard drill bit (⅛-inch is usually sufficient) and drill through the drywall and into the studs at the marked locations. These pilot holes will prevent the heavy-duty lag bolts from splitting the studs.
- Fit the impact driver or ratchet with the appropriately-sized socket for the lag bolt. Place a washer over the lag bolt, hold the bracket in place, and attach the bracket to the wall. Repeat at all four locations.
- Place a towel down, and lay the TV face down on the towel. Locate the TV brackets in the kit, and follow the directions for attaching the brackets. Larger TVs might require several sets of brackets, while smaller TVs might require just one. Use the screwdriver to attach the brackets to the back of the TV. If the back of the TV is curved or the hardware is too long, use the plastic or rubber spacers that come in the kit to provide a bit of clearance.
- Hang the TV on the wall bracket. Usually, there will be a set screw that clamps the two brackets (the wall bracket and the TV bracket) together. Be sure to tighten this screw to ensure the TV is hanging safely.
Resources
Nathan and Kevin discuss the basic types of television mounts (fixed, tilting, and full-motion) and demonstrate how to install one. Nathan explains these are general features of these mounts, and varying models and colors are also available. After determining the mount type that works best, the next step is to check your television’s specifications to ensure they’re compatible.
Materials
See more TV mounts available at The Home Depot.
