After purchasing a brand new flat screen TV, you may want to mount it to your wall to give the room a finished look. You may be tempted to take on this project yourself, but it is recommended that you hire a professional tv install service. This will prevent you from straining your back and potentially putting yourself at risk of injuries. While flat screens have shrunk in overall size and weight, they are still a heavy item that is difficult for one person to lift and position on a mounting bracket.
Before you begin your tv install, consult the instructions that came with your wall-mount kit. Find out what tools are needed and how much time will be required to complete the task. Having these details at hand will help you decide whether it is a job for a do-it-yourselfer or someone who needs to enlist the help of a friend.
First, locate the studs on the wall where you plan to hang your TV. Use a stud finder or another method to do so. You should be able to locate a single stud for TVs that weigh less than 80 pounds; larger units will need two studs. Next, choose a wall-mount that matches the mounting slots on your TV set. These are usually referred to as VESA slots/holes. If your TV doesn’t have VESA screw holes, you can purchase a universal mount that is compatible with most sets.
When choosing a location for your mount, make sure that it will be at eye level from your seating or lying position. Also, consider how much light the TV will receive from outside or other sources of lighting. If you live in a dark area, consider using a dimmer switch to control the amount of light that comes on.
Once you have chosen a spot for your mount, use a level to ensure that the drywall is, well, level. This will be a good indicator as to how straight your TV will sit once it is mounted.
While you are at it, you may want to mark the location of any pipes or electrical ducts in the walls. This will keep you from drilling into them when securing your TV mount. If you are going to run cables or wires through the wall behind your TV, consider securing a cable/wire wall plate (similar to a power outlet plate) that can be painted to match your wall color.
Attach the mounting bracket to the wall using the screws provided in your kit. While it is best to work with a partner when doing this, you can do this solo if you are careful and follow the installation instructions carefully. Once the bracket is in place, use your level again to ensure that it is perfectly horizontal. Finally, use your power drill or screwdriver to put in the mounting screws, making sure that they are tight enough to firmly hold the bracket against the wall without wiggling or rattling.
