Finding the Proper Height

The ideal height for mounting your TV depends on the size of your TV and the layout of your room. A general rule of thumb is to mount the TV so that the center of the screen is at eye level when you’re seated. For most people, this means the center of the TV should be about 42 inches from the floor.

Alternative Heights: While the standard height works for many, some prefer different heights based on their viewing habits and room setup:

• Higher Mounting: If you often watch TV while standing or from a barstool, you might prefer mounting the TV higher, around 48-60 inches from the floor.

• Lower Mounting: For a more immersive experience, especially in a home theater setup, you might mount the TV lower, around 36 inches from the floor.

Types of Walls and How to Mount on Them

It's important to figure out what type of wall you are mounting to, as the approach can be different depending on your situation. You can hire a professional (like Nerdy Neighbour) to avoid the headache - they will have all the tools and supplies necessary, and will eliminate the guesswork for you.

• Drywall with Wood Studs:

Tools needed: Stud finder, drill, screws, wall anchors (for additional support if only one stud is available in the mounting location)

• • 1. Locate the Studs: Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. Mark their positions.

    2. Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes into the studs where you’ll mount the bracket.

Note: in some cases, the stud location may not be aligned with the spot where you are looking to mount the TV. In these situations, ensure that at least one stud is mounted to, preferably aligned near the center of the bracket, and add wall anchors for added security. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES mount a TV using wall anchors only.

• • 3. Attach the Bracket: Secure the bracket to the wall using screws. Make sure it’s level.

    4. Mount the TV: Attach the mounting plate to the back of your TV, then hang the TV on the bracket.

• Drywall with Metal Studs (common in Ontario apartments and condos these days):

Tools needed: Stud finder, drill, toggle bolts, large size drill bits, screws & wall anchors (for additional support if only one stud is available in the mounting location)

• • 1. Locate the Studs: Use a stud finder to locate the metal studs in your wall. Mark their positions.

    2. Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes through the drywall and into the metal studs.

Note: in some cases, the stud location may not be aligned with the spot where you are looking to mount the TV. In these situations, ensure that at least one stud is mounted to, preferably aligned near the center of the bracket, and add wall anchors for added security. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES mount a TV using wall anchors only

• • 3. Use Toggle Bolts: For added security, use toggle bolts to attach the bracket to the metal studs. For toggle bolts to attach to a metal stud, a much larger drill bit is needed to drill a hole in the stud. Ensure that you follow the toggle bolt instructions closely and pick up the right size drill bit beforehand, to avoid having to go back to the hardware store.

    4. Attach the Bracket: Secure the bracket to the wall using the toggle bolts. Ensure it’s level.

    5. Mount the TV: Attach the mounting plate to the TV and hang it on the bracket.

• Brick or Concrete:

Tools needed: Concrete screws (Tapcon), hammer drill, and masonry drill bits.

• • 1. Mark the Position: Mark where you want to mount the TV.

    2. Drill Holes: Use a hammer drill with a masonry bit to drill holes into the brick or concrete. Ensure that you are drilling the correct size holes for the concrete screws you will be using. Note: This will be very loud!

    3. Attach the Bracket: Screw the bracket into the anchors.

    4. Mount the TV: Attach the mounting plate to the TV and hang it on the bracket.

• Plaster:

Tools needed: Concrete screws (Tapcon), hammer drill, and masonry drill bits.

1. Locate the Studs: Use a stud finder to locate studs behind the plaster. Chances are a stud finder won't work well with a plaster wall, so you may need a magnet to detect the spots where nails have been used to attach the lath to the studs.

2. Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes into the studs.

Note: in some cases, the stud location may not be aligned with the spot where you are looking to mount the TV. In these situations, ensure that at least one stud is mounted to, preferably aligned near the center of the bracket, and add wall anchors for added security. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES mount a TV using wall anchors only

3. Attach the Bracket: Secure the bracket to the wall with screws.

4. Mount the TV: Attach the mounting plate to the TV and hang it on the bracket.

Cable Management and Safety Precautions

Proper cable management is crucial for both aesthetics and safety. Here’s how to manage your cables effectively:

1. Use Cable Covers or Raceways: These help keep cables organized and out of sight. They also protect cables from physical damage and reduce tripping hazards.

2. Label Your Cables: Clearly label each cable to make future maintenance easier.

3. Avoid Overloading: Don’t bundle too many cables together, as this can cause overheating and potential fire hazards1.

4. Use Conduit for Concealed Wiring: When running cables behind drywall, use conduit to protect the cables and comply with fire codes2. Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) and Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC) are good options.

Final Tips

Mounting a TV can be a two-person job, especially for larger screens. Get help from a friend or family member (or a professional like Nerdy Neighbour Handyman & Tech Support Services! My services are available in London, ON, St Thomas, ON, and the surrounding areas. Get a quote here!).

Happy mounting! If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to reach out.