If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already made the decision to get a TV wall mount. And honestly, it’s a great choice. Mounting your TV not only saves space, making your room look cleaner and more modern, but it can also make your viewing experience much better by positioning the TV at the perfect angle. Plus, it’s a much safer option, especially if you have kids or pets. At TV Mounting Pro, we’re here to make the whole process as easy and straightforward as possible.
But with so many options out there, how do you know which TV mount is right for you? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best decision for your space and your TV.
Why Should You Mount Your TV?
First off, let’s talk about why mounting your TV is a smart move. If you’re still on the fence, here are a few compelling reasons to go for it:
- Space-saving: Wall-mounted TVs free up valuable floor space, especially if you’re in a smaller room. You won’t need bulky stands or entertainment units, which helps create a more minimalist and organized environment.
- Improved Viewing Experience: Mounting your TV allows you to position it at the perfect height and angle for viewing, whether you’re on the sofa, in bed, or in your kitchen.
- Safer for Families: It’s no secret that free-standing TVs can tip over if they’re not secure, leading to accidents. Wall-mounted TVs stay firmly in place, making them much safer, especially in homes with children or pets.
- Clean, Tidy Look: A mounted TV creates a sleek, modern aesthetic, giving your room a cleaner look, especially when combined with proper cord management (we’ll get into that later).
With those benefits in mind, it’s clear why so many people are choosing to wall-mount their TVs. But before you rush out to buy any random bracket, there are a few important things you need to consider.
What to Consider Before Buying a TV Mount
1. TV Size and Weight: VESA Compatibility
The first thing to look at when choosing a TV mount is whether it’s compatible with your TV. TV wall mounts follow a universal standard called VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association). This simply means that the mounting holes on the back of your TV should align with the mounting points on the wall bracket.
To find your TV’s VESA size, check the manual or look up the product specifications online. The most common VESA sizes are:
- VESA 200×200 for TVs up to 32 inches
- VESA 400×400 for TVs up to 60 inches
- VESA 600×400 for larger TVs
If you’re unsure of your TV’s VESA dimensions, simply measure the horizontal and vertical distances between the mounting holes on the back of your TV in millimeters. Once you know these, you can easily find a compatible mount.
Pro Tip: While the VESA pattern tells you the mounting compatibility, you still need to check the weight limits of the bracket. Just because two TVs have the same VESA pattern doesn’t mean they weigh the same!
2. Type of Wall
Not all walls are created equal, and the type of wall you’re mounting your TV on will dictate the kind of hardware you need. Most TV wall mounts are designed for drywall with wood studs, but if you’re mounting on brick, plaster, or concrete, you’ll need special hardware (and possibly professional help). Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Drywall: This is the most common wall type, and you’ll likely use a stud finder to locate studs to secure the mount. Don’t mount your TV directly to the drywall without finding studs, as this won’t support the weight of the TV.
- Plaster/Brick/Concrete: If your walls are made from these materials, you’ll need stronger anchors and possibly additional support to hold the weight of your TV securely.
3. Viewing Angle and Room Layout
Before you choose a TV mount, think about where you’ll be watching from. Do you need the TV to tilt or swivel to improve the viewing angle, or will it be mounted in a fixed position? There are three main types of TV wall mounts, each with its own pros and cons.
Types of TV Wall Mounts: Finding the Best Fit for Your Space
1. Fixed TV Wall Mounts
If your TV is going to be directly in front of your seating area and you don’t need any extra movement or flexibility, a fixed TV wall mount is probably your best bet. These mounts hold your TV securely in a fixed position, keeping the screen parallel to the wall.
- Best For: Rooms where you’ll always be watching the TV from the same angle, like living rooms or bedrooms where the TV is at eye level.
- Advantages:
- Simple and affordable
- Sits very close to the wall for a clean, picture-frame-like look
- Disadvantages:
- No tilt or swivel options, so you can’t adjust the viewing angle once it’s mounted.
2. Tilting TV Wall Mounts
Tilting mounts are similar to fixed mounts but with one key difference: they allow you to tilt the TV forward or backward. This is perfect for TVs that are mounted higher up on the wall, like above a fireplace or in a room where glare from windows is an issue.
- Best For: Situations where the TV is mounted high on the wall, such as in a bedroom or above a fireplace.
- Advantages:
- Reduces glare and allows you to adjust the viewing angle.
- Ideal for rooms where the TV is mounted above eye level.
- Disadvantages:
- Usually sticks out a bit more from the wall compared to fixed mounts.
3. Full-Motion TV Wall Mounts (Swivel/Articulating)
If you want the ultimate in flexibility, go for a full-motion mount (also called swivel or articulating mounts). These allow you to tilt, swivel, and even extend the TV out from the wall. This makes them perfect for rooms with multiple seating areas or if you like to adjust the position of your TV frequently.
- Best For: Rooms with multiple viewing angles (like open-concept living areas) or if you need to mount your TV in a corner.
- Advantages:
- Offers the most versatility for viewing angles.
- Great for rooms with multiple seating areas.
- Disadvantages:
- Tends to be more expensive than other types.
- Usually requires more space since the TV extends farther from the wall.
4. Specialty Mounts (Ceiling, Corner, etc.)
In addition to the three main types of mounts, there are also specialty mounts designed for unique situations. These include ceiling mounts, corner mounts, and even mobile TV carts.
- Ceiling Mounts: Ideal for spaces with limited wall space or for mounting TVs in public areas like gyms or commercial spaces.
- Corner Mounts: Great for rooms where a traditional wall mount won’t work due to the layout.
- Mobile TV Carts: Perfect for businesses or offices that need to move a TV between rooms or locations.
Installation Tips: How to Mount Your TV Safely
Once you’ve selected the right mount for your TV, it’s time for installation. If you’re handy, this can be a fun DIY project, but if you’re unsure, it’s always best to call in a professional to avoid damaging your walls or your TV.
What You’ll Need:
- A stud finder (if you’re mounting on drywall)
- A level
- A drill and drill bits
- Lag bolts or masonry anchors (depending on the type of wall)
- Socket set
- A friend to help lift and align the TV
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Locate the Studs: Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. Mark the positions where the mount will be anchored.
- Drill Pilot Holes: Use the template provided with the mount to mark where the bolts will go. Drill pilot holes into the studs or masonry for the bolts.
- Secure the Mount: Use lag bolts or masonry anchors to securely attach the mount to the wall.
- Attach the TV Bracket: Secure the mounting bracket to the back of your TV using the appropriate screws (make sure to check your TV’s VESA pattern).
- Lift and Hang the TV: With the help of a friend, lift the TV and hang it on the mount. Double-check that it’s level and securely in place.
Cord Management: Keep It Clean and Organized
One of the main goals of mounting your TV is to create a clean, modern look. But a mess of cables can quickly ruin that aesthetic. Fortunately, there are a few simple solutions to keep your cords neat and hidden:
- In-Wall Cord Management: This is the cleanest option, but it requires cutting into the wall to run the cables behind the drywall. It’s best to hire a professional for this to ensure it’s done safely.
- Cord Covers: These are plastic or metal tracks that stick to the wall and hide the cords. Most can be painted to match your wall color.
- Cable Ties and Clips: If you don’t mind the cables being visible, you can use cable ties or clips to organize them and keep them from hanging loosely.
Choosing the Right TV Mount: Final Tips
By now, you should have a good understanding of the types of TV mounts available and
which one is right for you. Here are a few final tips to make sure you get the best mount for your needs:
- Don’t Skimp on Quality: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality mount will ensure your TV stays securely in place.
- Double-Check Weight Limits: Always make sure the mount can support the size and weight of your TV.
- Plan for Future Upgrades: If you think you might upgrade to a larger TV in the future, consider getting a mount that can handle bigger screens.
At TV Mounting Pro, we’ve helped countless customers across the UK mount their TVs securely and safely. Whether you’re looking for a simple fixed mount or a fully articulating one, we’ve got you covered.
Improve Your Viewing Experience with the Perfect TV Wall Mount
Choosing the right TV mount might seem like a daunting task at first, but with the right information, it’s a decision you can make confidently. Whether you go for a fixed mount, a tilting option, or a full-motion mount, the key is to consider your space, viewing angles, and personal needs.
Need help with installation? Our team at TV Mounting Pro is always here to assist. Get in touch today, and let us help you create the perfect setup for your home entertainment system.
Now, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your perfectly mounted TV!