Questions to Ask Before Mounting Your TV

Nowadays, a wall-mounted television is as integral to a living room as, say, a coffee table or ridiculously cosy couch. But this task is not as easy as you thought. There are questions that you should ask yourself before you mount your TV to the wall.

While you might love the look and practicality of a mounted television—this design hack is practicality begging for a Netflix marathon—figuring out how to do so is easier said than done.

AntennaPros is your local experts in TV Antenna Solutions in Waterloo, Sydney that can provide you with a no-fuss clean and tidy installation at your home or business with same or next day service.

Do You Have a Spot for the Components?

If you're like most people, you have several devices hooked up to your television. Game consoles, cable boxes, DVRs and the like are going to need a home near your television so the cords will reach the TV's output ports. Installing a floating shelving unit under the television may be the answer.

Another idea is to put a bookshelf under the television to contain all of the devices. Simply drill a large hole in the back of the bookshelf to thread the cords through if there's not already one there.

Can Your Wall Handle It?

The most important thing to consider when mounting a television is whether or not your wall can hold it up. Even the most modern, lightest televisions are quite a bit heavier than your largest framed pieces. Because of this, the location you choose will need a stud (or two) to anchor the screws.

Mount-friendly walls are comprised of studs, which are essentially boards behind your walls that support the overall frame. Not only do the studs support the walls, but they also make it possible to hang things—yes, including your television.

Use a stud finder to locate the studs on your wall to determine where you can hang the TV. Do not attempt to use drywall anchors to hang it. Eventually, the anchors will get pulled through the drywall and your TV will end up on the floor.

No stud? Choose another location that does have a stud where you need it.

What Type of Mount Do I Need?

Believe it or not, a television mount is not a one-size-fits-all situation. The most basic type of wall mount, this is a simple attachment that is usually offered as part of the sales package with most TVs. But there different types of mounts for your TV as well.

It’s important to get the right option for your television.

How High Should You Mount the TV

Height may be the most important thing to consider when you mount your TV. First, think about the room itself. Is the TV going in your living room, a home bar, or a game room? If you are going to be watching from bar stools, then it needs to be mounted high enough for comfortable viewing from that height. But if you'll be standing around a pool table and watching TV, you'll want to mount it even higher since you will watch it primarily while standing up. You may also want the option to angle it down if you decide to sit.

Make sure you don't forget the piece of furniture you may be placed under your TV. Depending on the size of your TV, 42 inches may not allow enough space for the table or cabinet. If not, mount the TV about 12 to 18 centimetres above the furniture (this is about the same height you would hang a mirror above a dresser).