TV Mounting FAQs to Help Get You Started

It takes about an hour on average to install a simple TV mount. Keep in mind that this is for ideal conditions with no problems, extra measures, or special features. More complex jobs may take upwards of three hours, especially when you're dealing with a masonry wall.

This all depends on your personal preference, budget, and available space. Wallet-friendly TV stands are a favorite of many who are unable to, or don't want to, hang a unit on their wall.

But stands take up a lot of room, and though they're much easier to set up and use, this option also doesn't provide the range of motion many wall mounts offer.

The simple answer leaves this to your own personal preference. However, mounting a TV requires a number of elements that could perhaps limit your choices.

Aside from technical specifications like wall strength and available space, lighting is a huge contributor. Once you know where you want your television, monitor natural and artificial light. Windows and nearby lamps could cause glare, and this is certainly something you don't want to realize only after your project is already complete.

As a rule of thumb, the middle of the screen should be eye-level for the average viewer. From the floor to the screen's center should generally be around 42 inches. This can always change depending on seating arrangements and the standard audience for that particular television. A mount in a child's room, for example, should be lower than one that's behind the bar of a man cave.

Flat-screen models each have their own unique specifications for viewing at an angle. Therefore, it's best to consult your owner's manual for a better sense of distance.

Overall, size also plays a part. Test comfortable areas for optimal viewing. A smaller unit will require closer seating when compared to a larger screen.

For your average DIY project, the stronger the wall, the better it will hold a TV. Brick or concrete works exceptionally well. As long as it's screwed to metal or wooden studs, a bracket will withstand being attached to drywall, too. Avoid hanging on walls with tile or plaster.

Stone, though durable, cannot hold a mounted TV unless you have a specially-designed mount. The same rings true if you want your TV in a corner. These jobs are best left to the professionals.

This is one of the most common questions asked about TVs, and yes: you can mount one over a fireplace. But this is another spot you should leave to the pros unless you know what you're doing.

A big part of this has to do with the masonry involved, which will likely require a few extra steps, a specialized bracket, and a bit of know-how.

When your television comes with a wall mount, it's best to use this provided equipment, including the hardware. Some units don't include a mount, but most electronics retailers can steer you in the right direction if you bring them the stats on your TV.

Wall mounts come in a few different forms. If you want a full range of motion, an articulating mount will allow you to swing or angle the TV in any direction. For a flush appearance, a low-profile stationary mount is what you need. In between the two are brackets that only tilt or swivel.

Sure, there are ways to conceal wires. This is one task you can do yourself, but if you don't feel fully confident in your skills, you should leave it to a professional, especially if you're interested in in-wall mounting. This type of concealment involves running all wires within the wall. It's the cleanest method for hiding everything, but it's also the most tedious and carries the highest potential for problems.

On-wall concealment is the easier option, and there are lots of choices for covering the wires with strips that match your wall. This offers a less invasive way to hide and organize wires, and gives you more wiggle room if you have to add or change any hookups.

Technically, yes, a TV can be mounted without a bracket. But is this something you really want to do? Of course, if you're in a rental property that doesn't allow changes and you don't have the floor space for a stance, you don't really have a choice.

Bracket-less mounting can only be done with small, lightweight units. Incredibly strong double-sided adhesives or hardwall hangers are your best bet if you can't or don't want to put holes in the wall.