How to Install a TV Wall Mount: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re tired of bulky furniture taking up valuable space in your living room or want to enjoy a more streamlined, modern look, installing a TV wall mount is the perfect solution. Not only does it give your space a clean, clutter-free feel, but it also provides you with the flexibility to adjust your TV for the best viewing angles. Plus, a well-mounted TV can become a stylish feature in your room, elevating the overall décor. 

At Screen Mounts, we understand that installing a TV wall mount can seem like a daunting task. But don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through the process step-by-step. Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or a first-timer, this guide will help you get your TV mounted safely and securely. 

Why Wall Mount Your TV? 

There are plenty of reasons why more people are opting to wall mount their TVs. Here are some key benefits to consider: 

● Space-Saving: Wall mounting your TV frees up floor space, making your room look larger and less cluttered. This is especially helpful in smaller rooms or apartments where every bit of space counts. 

● Improved Viewing Experience: When mounted correctly, a TV wall mountallows you to position your TV at eye level, creating a more comfortable and immersive viewing experience. You’ll enjoy better angles without straining your neck or eyes. 

● Cleaner Look: A mounted TV eliminates the need for bulky entertainment units or TV stands. This minimalist approach gives your room a sleek, modern look, perfect for any home décor style. 

● Safer for Kids and Pets: Mounting your TV on the wall reduces the risk of it being knocked over, which is particularly important if you have young children or pets in the house. With the TV securely fastened to the wall, there’s less chance of accidents. 

● Easy Cable Management: A TV wall mount setup can make hiding cables much easier. With the right mounts and accessories, you can neatly manage your wires, keeping everything tidy and out of sight. 

So, whether you’re looking to improve your room’s aesthetic, enhance your viewing experience, or simply save space, a TV wall mount is a smart choice. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of installing your own TV wall mount! 

What You’ll Need for the Installation 

Before you start drilling holes in your wall, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need for the installation process: 

● TV Wall Mount Kit: Make sure the wall mount is compatible with your TV size and weight. Most kits come with the mounting bracket, screws, and instructions.

● Drill: You’ll need a drill to make holes in the wall for the mounting screws. A power drill will make the job faster, but a manual drill will also work if you prefer.

● Level: To ensure your TV is mounted straight, a level is a must-have tool. It will help you align the mount perfectly. 

● Stud Finder: Finding the studs behind the wall is crucial for securely mounting your TV. A stud finder will save you time and effort by detecting the beams that provide support. 

● Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are key for placing the mount in the right spot. Use the measuring tape to determine the optimal height and alignment for your TV. 

● Screwdriver: Depending on your wall mount kit, you might need a screwdriver to tighten screws. A drill with a screwdriver attachment can speed up this step.

● Pencil: You’ll need a pencil to mark the spot for your drilling and mounting.

● Wall Anchors (if necessary): If you're mounting on drywall and can't find a stud, wall anchors may be required for extra support. These aren’t always needed, but it’s good to have them on hand just in case. 

Once you have all your tools ready, you’ll be prepared to take on the next steps with ease.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location 

Choosing the right location to mount your TV is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics. Here’s how to make sure you’re picking the perfect spot: 

● Eye Level: The ideal height for your TV should be at eye level when seated. You don’t want to strain your neck looking up or down, so find a comfortable spot where you can view the screen without any discomfort. For most people, this is around 1.2m to 1.5m from the floor. 

● Viewing Distance: Think about how far away you’ll be sitting. A good rule of thumb is that the TV should be around 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal size of the screen away from your seating area. For example, a 55-inch TV should be positioned about 2.1 to 3.5 metres from the couch. 

● Wall Type: Before drilling, ensure your wall can handle the weight of the TV. Drywall is common in most homes, but it may require additional support such as wall anchors or mounting directly into studs. For brick or concrete walls, you may need different screws or masonry anchors. 

● Cable Management: Keep in mind how you’ll handle your TV’s power cable, HDMI cables, and any other wiring. Ideally, you’ll want to keep cables hidden for a cleaner look. Make sure your chosen location allows for easy access to power outlets and consider using a cable management system to keep everything neat. 

● Avoid Obstacles: Make sure the wall you choose doesn’t have obstacles like light switches, power outlets, or shelving in the way. You’ll want to keep the TV mounted at a height that doesn’t block these items, while also ensuring they’re accessible for plugging in cables. 

Once you’ve considered these factors, use a pencil to mark the ideal position for your TV. Take your time with this step, as it sets the foundation for a smooth installation.

Step 2: Mark the Mounting Holes 

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect location for your TV wall mount, it’s time to mark where the holes will go. This step is crucial for ensuring that your mount is level and securely fixed to the wall. 

● Measure and Mark: Use your measuring tape to double-check the height of your TV and the distance from the floor to your desired viewing position. Once you're happy with the spot, mark the position for the mount. Most mounts come with a template to help you place your holes precisely. If yours doesn’t, use a level to draw a straight line where the mount will be fixed. 

● Check the Instructions: Before you start drilling, refer to the instructions provided with your TV wall mount kit. The template or guide should show you the exact distance between the holes for your mount. Ensure that these measurements align with the size of your TV to avoid any issues when attaching the mounting bracket. 

● Double-Check for Level: Use your level to ensure that the lines you’ve marked are perfectly horizontal. A crooked mount could result in a wonky TV, so this step is essential. Take your time to make sure the marks are accurate before proceeding to the next step. 

Once you’re happy with the alignment, you’re ready to drill into the wall!

Step 3: Find the Studs in the Wall 

To ensure your TV is securely mounted, it’s crucial to locate the studs behind your wall. The studs are the vertical beams that provide support, and mounting your TV directly into them will ensure that it doesn’t fall off. Here’s how to find them: 

● Use a Stud Finder: A stud finder is an essential tool for locating the studs behind your drywall. Turn it on and slowly move it along the wall. The device will alert you when it detects a stud. Once you’ve found a stud, mark the edges of it with a pencil, so you know exactly where to drill. 

● Double-Check with a Hammer: If you don’t have a stud finder, you can tap lightly on the wall with a hammer or knuckle. A solid sound indicates a stud, while a hollow sound indicates an empty space. Once you think you’ve found a stud, use a small nail or drill bit to confirm its location. 

● Consider the Spacing: Studs are typically spaced 16 inches apart, but this can vary depending on your home’s construction. Be sure to check the spacing and mark multiple studs to ensure the mount is securely attached. 

● Avoid Drywall Anchors for Heavy TVs: While drywall anchors can be helpful for lighter items, they aren’t strong enough to support a heavy TV. Always aim to drill into the studs to provide the necessary strength and support for your TV. 

Once you’ve located the studs and confirmed their position, you’re all set to proceed with drilling the holes for your TV wall mount.

Step 4: Install the Wall Bracket 

Now that you’ve marked the hole positions and located the studs, it’s time to attach the wall bracket to the wall. This step is essential for ensuring your TV is securely mounted and level. Here’s how to do it: 

● Align the Bracket: Take the wall bracket and line it up with the pencil marks you made earlier. Make sure it’s perfectly level using your level tool. This ensures your TV will hang straight when it’s mounted. 

● Drill Pilot Holes: Once the bracket is aligned, use your drill to create pilot holes in the wall where you’ve marked the stud locations. Make sure the drill bit is the correct size for the screws you’re using. It’s important to drill into the centre of the studs for maximum strength. 

● Attach the Bracket: Using a screwdriver or drill, secure the wall bracket to the wall with the provided screws. Tighten the screws evenly to ensure the bracket is firmly attached. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the wall or bracket. 

● Check for Level Again: Before moving on, double-check the bracket with your level to ensure everything is straight. It’s always easier to adjust at this stage than after you’ve mounted the TV. 

Once the bracket is securely attached to the wall, you’re ready to move on to attaching the mounting plate to your TV! 

Step 5: Attach the Mounting Plate to the TV 

With the wall bracket securely in place, the next step is to attach the mounting plate to the back of your TV. This part is straightforward, but it’s important to handle your TV carefully. 

● Check the VESA Pattern: Most TVs follow a VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) pattern, which refers to the standardised spacing of screw holes on the back of the TV. Before you attach the mounting plate, check that it aligns with your TV’s VESA pattern. If you’re unsure, refer to the TV’s manual for the exact measurements. 

● Attach the Plate: Take the mounting plate from your kit and align it with the screw holes on the back of your TV. Use the screws provided in your TV wall mount kit to secure the plate in place. Tighten the screws evenly, making sure the plate is securely attached. 

● Be Gentle with the TV: TVs can be heavy, so handle the back of the TV carefully to avoid putting too much strain on the screen. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask someone for help. 

● Double-Check for Stability: After attaching the plate, give it a gentle tug to ensure it’s securely fastened. You want to make sure that it won’t slip off or become loose when you mount it on the wall. 

Once the mounting plate is firmly attached to your TV, you’re ready to move on to the final step of mounting the TV on the wall bracket!

Step 6: Mount the TV on the Wall Bracket 

Now that your TV is prepped with the mounting plate, it's time to attach the TV to the wall bracket. This is the moment when your TV starts to look sleek and stylish on the wall! Here’s how to do it: 

● Lift and Position the TV: With the help of a friend or family member (if needed), carefully lift your TV and align the mounting plate with the wall bracket. This can be a bit tricky since TVs can be heavy, so ensure you have a firm grip on both the TV and the bracket. 

● Hook the TV onto the Bracket: Most wall mount brackets are designed to hook onto the plate on the back of your TV. Align the hooks on the wall bracket with the mounting plate on your TV. Once the hooks are in place, gently lower the TV onto the bracket. 

● Secure the TV: Some mounts include locking mechanisms or screws that hold the TV in place once it’s mounted. Follow the instructions in your kit to ensure the TV is securely locked onto the wall bracket. Make sure it’s firmly attached and won’t slip out of place. 

● Check for Level: Before you walk away, take one last look with your level to make sure your TV is positioned straight. It’s always good to double-check at this point, as minor adjustments are easier to make now than later. 

Once the TV is mounted and secured, it’s time to move on to the final touches—cable management and ensuring everything is working properly. 

Step 7: Cable Management and Final Checks 

Now that your TV is up and securely mounted, it’s time to tidy up and ensure everything is in perfect working order. 

● Manage Your Cables: One of the key advantages of wall mounting a TV is the ability to hide cables and wires. There are several ways to do this: 

○ Cable Covers: Use cable covers to neatly conceal wires running along the wall. 

○ In-Wall Cable Management: For a completely clean look, you can install in-wall cable management systems. This allows you to run your cables behind the wall and out of sight. 

○ Cable Ties: If you have multiple cables, cable ties are a great way to keep everything organised and prevent tangling. 

Whichever method you choose, make sure cables are tidy and don’t interfere with the TV’s mounting. 

● Double-Check TV Functionality: Before you settle in to watch your first show, take a moment to test the TV. Check that all the connections—HDMI, power, sound, etc.—are secure and working properly. Make sure the TV is powered on and that the picture and sound are as expected. 

● Final Touches: If your mount includes tilt or swivel options, adjust your TV to the ideal viewing angle. Now is also a great time to make any small tweaks to the TV’s position to ensure it’s exactly where you want it.

Once everything is set up and functioning, you’re ready to sit back and enjoy your newly mounted TV! 

Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed your TV wall mount and transformed your space into a modern, stylish entertainment area. By following these simple, step-by-step instructions, you’ve not only saved space and improved your viewing experience, but you’ve also added a sleek touch to your room’s décor. Whether you’re enjoying a movie night or watching your favourite sports game, your newly mounted TV is sure to enhance every moment. 

Remember, safety and precision are key throughout the installation process. Taking the time to measure carefully, find the studs, and securely attach your TV ensures that you can enjoy your mounted TV with peace of mind for years to come.