How To Mount A Flat Screen TV

A flat screen TV not only enhances your viewing pleasure but also spices the entire look of the room where it has been set. Imagine a room where the TV is just a part of wall, and viewing it makes it looks as if you are viewing a painting. The flat screen enhances the effect more. It is wide and big and the picture clarity is such that it brings the images to life. On top of that, you do not have to contend with clutter. No hideous cables, no bulky box and you are also left with all the extra space that a normal TV would occupy. However, the only thing that is seen as a disadvantage in a flat screen TV is in mounting it. Flat screen TV rests on the wall. But just as you know, you can’t simply put anything on the wall, you have to anchor it. And for that you have to work on the wall. This will require, needless be told, some knowledge and skill. For most people installing a flat screen is too much of a trouble and so they hire professionals to do it. But why spend more when all you need is some time and little bit of patience. Follow this article where you will get to know all the step by step process of mounting a flat screen TV.

Mounting A Flat Screen TV

Mounting Bracket

Your first task is to choose a mounting bracket that fits your flat screen TV since most of such TVs don’t come with a mounting bracket. So you will have to purchase a mounting bracket separately.
To buy a mounting bracket, you should first check the user manual to see what all mounting brackets will work for your TV. This is because some may require special mounts. Get a mounting bracket that matches the VESA number code of the TV.
The mounting bracket should also support the size and weight of the TV.

Where To Mount

It is very important that you decide where you want to mount your flat screen TV. Pick the right location as you have to work on the wall and you won’t have the luxury of trial and error.
The place that you select should be at a height that allows comfortable viewing. The center of the screen should be at the eye level and not too high or too low.
It should also not be mounted opposite to natural or artificial light as the screen will reflect the glare.
Take into consideration how you are going to route your TV cables with the power outlets.

Wall Studs

Wall studs will ensure that the mounting bracket stays securely fastened on the wall. So, it is necessary that you bolt the mount into the studs in the wall.
You have to use a stud finder to locate the wall stud. The wall stud is basically a vertical piece that is a part of the interior frame of the wall. Thus, wall studs can be used to anchor heavy objects.
Using the stud finder, locate the stud and drill holes in at least one wall stud.

Attaching The Mount

After selecting the location and drilling the holes, you should attach the wall mount. Wall mounts have two parts - one that attaches to the TV and the other that attaches to the wall.
First attach the TV part of the mount on the TV and fasten the wall portion on the wall. Attach all the other cables to the TV beforehand.
Now attach the TV to the wall mount. Be careful while doing so as flat screen TVs can be very heavy and so difficult to lift.
Ensure that the safety locks and tabs are secure and functioning.

How to Cite

Related Articles

See also

More in 'Home & Living'