Wall mounting your TV can free up space on tables or stands and improve the viewing experience. But selecting the right tv wall mount can be difficult with so many options available. There are several key features to consider when making your choice including how easy it is to install, what type of television you have and whether or not the mount has a cable management feature.
If you choose to mount your TV, be sure to select a mount that can handle the weight and screen size of your television. Most models will be clearly rated for these parameters, and it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. For example, some mounts require you to use a special screw for larger televisions and others will only hold certain types of screws. Using a screw that is too big can damage the chassis of your TV or cause it to fall off when mounted.
It’s also important to check that the mount you’re considering is compatible with the VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) pattern of mounting holes found on the back of most modern televisions. Most wall mounts will have a VESA compatibility chart on their website or product description that can help you determine which mount will work best with your television.
The first step is to decide where you want to mount your television and mark the location on the wall with painters tape. It’s helpful to do this before you buy a mount because moving the TV afterward is not only more work but it can leave holes in your wall that you may not want. Once you’ve marked the spot, you should then use a stud finder to locate wall studs in that area. This is important because not all mounts can be attached to every type of wall, and you will run into problems if you try to attach your TV to a mount that isn’t meant for your wall.
Once you’ve located the studs, you can use your power drill or screwdriver to pre-drill holes in the wall where the mounting bracket and plate will go. Once you’ve done this, you can attach the wall plate and bracket to the wall using the included screws. When tightening the screws, it’s important not to overtighten them because this can damage the frame of your TV or even strip the screw heads.
After you’ve mounted your TV, you’ll need to route all of the cables through the mount’s cable management channels so they don’t get tangled or hung up on things. It’s a good idea to purchase a mount that has these channels, as they will make it much easier to keep your cables organized. This will also prevent them from getting tripped on when you move or rearrange your furniture. A tangled mess of cords can really ruin the look of your installation, and this is something that can be avoided by simply taking the time to plan out your wiring before you mount your TV.