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TV Mounting 101: Best Practices for a Secure Setup

by Ann Ferguson

Mounting your TV is more than just about saving space; it's about enhancing your viewing experience while keeping your setup safe and stylish. Whether you're creating a cozy living room or a sleek home theater, the right TV mount makes all the difference.

With options ranging from fixed mounts to fully articulating ones, selecting the right type and ensuring a secure installation is vital. Let's explore the different types of TV mounts, their benefits, and essential tips for choosing and installing the best one for your space.

Types of TV Mounts and Their Benefits

A man extending his TV with a fully articulating wall mount

Choosing a suitable TV mount can significantly enhance your viewing experience and room aesthetics. Here's a look at different types of mounts and their benefits:

  • Fixed Mounts: These hold the TV flat against the wall, providing a sleek, low-profile look ideal for eye-level viewing setups and TVs with ports on the side.
  • Tilting Mounts: Perfect for reducing glare and improving viewing angles, these allow you to adjust the TV vertically to fine-tune the viewing angle for better comfort.
  • Full-Motion (Articulating) Mounts: These offer the most flexibility, allowing you to extend, swivel, and tilt your TV to achieve the perfect viewing angle from anywhere in the room — perfect for large, open spaces!
  • Corner Mounts: Designed specifically for corner installations, this design makes it possible to utilize awkward spaces efficiently without compromising viewing angles.
  • Ceiling Mounts: Ideal for rooms where wall mounting isn't feasible, a ceiling model will suspend the TV from above, which is ideal for open floor plans for a unique and space-saving solution.
  • Under-Cabinet Mounts: These are designed for kitchens or other areas where space is limited. They allow the TV to be tucked away under a cabinet and pulled down when in use, saving space and keeping the TV out of sight when not needed.

Choosing the Right Mount for Your Space

A living space with a TV mounted on a wall, screen off

Finding the ideal TV mount involves more than just aesthetics — it's about ensuring compatibility and maximizing your viewing experience.

  • Room Layout and Viewing Habits: Consider where you'll watch TV most frequently. A full-motion mount might be ideal for open spaces or rooms with multiple seating areas, while a fixed mount is perfect for straightforward, eye-level viewing in smaller rooms.
  • TV Size and Weight: Ensure your mount can support your TV's size and weight. Check the specifications to confirm compatibility with your TV's dimensions and heft. This ensures stability and safety.
  • VESA Compatibility: Verify that your TV and mount have matching VESA patterns. Measure the horizontal and vertical distances between the mounting holes on the back of your TV to find the VESA size. Most options support multiple VESA patterns, but it's essential to confirm compatibility to avoid installation issues.
  • Wall Type and Stud Location: The type of wall (drywall, brick, etc.) and the location of studs will influence the type of mount and installation process. Use a stud finder to locate studs in drywall, ensuring a secure and stable installation.

Best Practices for Installation

Closeup of someone installing a wall mount

Now that you know which TV mount to choose, it's time to set it up! So, you'll need to gather your essential tools: a drill, level, stud finder, and the appropriate screws and anchors for your wall type. Then, measure and mark where you want your TV and use the stud finder to locate the studs in the wall to provide the necessary support (make sure to avoid areas with electrical wiring!).

After that, it's a matter of attaching the mounting brackets to the back of your TV and securing the wall plate to the wall, ensuring everything is level and anchored to the studs. Then, lift the TV and hook it onto the wall plate, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Pro Tip:
Double-check that all screws and bolts are tightly secured to prevent any movement or instability over time!

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Closeup of someone tightening the bolts on the wall mount

Even with careful installation, issues can arise with your TV mount. But with regular maintenance and troubleshooting, you can help keep your setup secure and functioning perfectly!

  • Regular Checks for Stability: Periodically check the mount and TV for any signs of wear or instability. Look for cracks, bends, or other damage in the mount and hardware. Regular inspections can prevent accidents and prolong the life of your setup.
  • Ensuring Screws and Bolts Are Tight: Make it a habit to tighten screws and bolts regularly. Vibrations and daily use can cause them to loosen over time, so a quick check every few months can keep everything secure.
  • Adjusting the Mount as Needed: If you notice any sagging or tilting, adjust the mount according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure all adjustments are made safely, and the TV remains level and secure.
Pro Tip:
Use a level to check your TV's alignment regularly. This simple tool can help you spot any shifts or tilts early, allowing you to correct them before they become bigger issues.

Elevate Your Entertainment

Family watching TV that is mounted on the wall

Securing your TV isn't just about safety — it's about transforming your viewing experience and revamping your space. Of course, having the best TV mount won't do much without the best TV to go with it! So, if you constantly deal with an unclear screen or wish the screen was bigger, don't wait to upgrade your TV at Nawara Brothers Home Store! And if you have any questions, give us a call or stop by!