Why Mount Your TV on the Wall
Wall-mounting your TV saves floor space, eliminates the need for a bulky TV stand, and gives your room a clean, modern look. It also keeps the TV safe from tipping, which is important if you have children or pets. With the right mount and installation, a wall-mounted TV is both functional and attractive.
Fixed, Tilt, or Full-Motion Mounts
The three main mount types are fixed (flat against the wall), tilt (angles up or down), and full-motion (extends and pivots in multiple directions). Fixed mounts are the most affordable and sit closest to the wall. Tilt mounts are good for TVs mounted high on a wall. Full-motion mounts are the most flexible and are ideal for rooms where you want to adjust the viewing angle from different seats.
Choosing the Right Height
The center of your TV screen should be at eye level when you are seated, which is typically about 42 inches from the floor. If you are mounting above a fireplace, you may need a tilt mount to angle the TV down for comfortable viewing. Mounting too high is a common mistake that leads to neck strain.
Finding the Wall Studs
A TV mount must be anchored to wall studs, not just drywall. Studs are typically spaced 16 inches apart. Using a stud finder, locate and mark the studs before drilling. If you cannot find studs or the mounting location does not line up with them, you may need a mounting plate or a different location.
Cable Management
The cleanest look is achieved by routing cables behind the wall, so no wires are visible. This requires cutting two small holes in the drywall and fishing the cables through. If you are not comfortable with this, you can use a paintable cable channel on the surface of the wall, though it is not as clean.
Soundbar Mounting
If you have a soundbar, it can be mounted below the TV on the wall or placed on a console. Wall-mounting the soundbar keeps it at ear level for the best sound and maintains the clean look. Many soundbars come with mounting brackets designed for this.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistakes are mounting too high, not anchoring to studs, leaving cables visible, and choosing a mount that is too small for the TV weight. A professional installation avoids all of these issues and ensures your TV is safe, level, and clean-looking.