Save Money and Your Wall With the Right Setup
Mounting a TV looks intimidating, but it’s way easier than it sounds when you have the right tools and know the key steps.
Whether it’s a living room centerpiece or a second TV for the bedroom, this guide shows you exactly how to mount a TV safely, securely, and without wrecking your wall.
We’ll also show you a few smart tool and mount options that make the whole job easier.
Heads up: Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
What You’ll Need
Core Tools:
- Wall mount kit (we’ll recommend a few good ones below)
- Stud finder
- Drill/Driver (and appropriate bits)
- Level (24”+ works best)
- Tape measure
- Pencil and masking tape
- Socket wrench or ratchet set (optional, but faster)
Optional (but helpful):
- Cable management kit
- Extension cord or outlet relocation kit
Pick the Right Wall Mount
There’s no one-size-fits-all mount. Here’s the quick breakdown:
1. Fixed Mount (Simplest and Sturdiest)
- Best for eye-level installations where you won’t need to move the screen.
- Slimmest profile—TV sits close to the wall.
2. Tilt Mount (Best for Above Eye Level)
- Tilts downward slightly to improve viewing angle if the TV is mounted high (like over a fireplace).
- Still fairly low profile.
3. Full-Motion Mount (For Ultimate Flexibility)
- Extends, tilts, swivels.
- Best for large rooms or corner installs.
- Slightly trickier install due to moving parts.
Step 1: Find the Right Height and Location
- Ideal height: Center of TV at about 42–48 inches from the floor for seated eye level.
- Consider glare: Avoid placing it directly across from large windows if possible.
- Wall type: This guide assumes standard stud-framed drywall walls. (Concrete and brick walls require masonry anchors and different tools.)
Use masking tape to mock up your TV’s size on the wall if you’re not sure about placement.
Step 2: Find and Mark the Studs
- Use your stud finder to locate two studs (at least 16″ apart for most mounts).
- Mark both edges of each stud so you know the true centerline.
- Important: You must anchor into studs—not just drywall.
Quick tip: Tap lightly with your knuckle to double-check—you should hear a solid sound over the stud.
Step 3: Attach the Wall Plate to the Wall
- Hold the wall mount plate against the wall at your marked height.
- Use a level to ensure it’s perfectly straight.
(Small errors now = crooked TV later.) - Mark the drill holes through the plate onto the wall.
- Drill pilot holes into the studs using the bit size recommended by your wall mount instructions.
- Attach the wall plate using the heavy-duty screws provided. Use a drill or ratchet to tighten snugly—don’t overtighten and strip the stud.
Step 4: Attach Mounting Brackets to Your TV
- Find the threaded holes on the back of your TV.
- Line up the mounting brackets and secure them using the correct bolts from your mount kit.
- Tighten firmly but don’t overcrank—you can crack the back housing if you go gorilla on it.
Pro Tip:
While the TV is still on a soft surface (bed, couch, carpet), plug in your cords—it’s way easier now than after the TV’s on the wall.
Step 5: Hang the TV on the Wall
- Have a second person help you lift and hook the TV brackets onto the wall plate.
- You should feel or hear a click or positive engagement (depends on mount style).
- Double-check that everything is seated properly before letting go.
Adjust tilt or swivel if your mount allows.
Step 6: Manage the Cables
Clean setups always win. Here are a few simple options:
- Cord covers: Stick to the wall and paintable for clean lines.
- In-wall power kits: More advanced—requires minor drywall work but hides everything inside the wall.
- Simple zip ties: Works for TV stands, credenzas, or partial hides.
Helpful Tools for Your TV Mount Project
Having the right tools makes the job faster, easier, and a whole lot less stressful. Here’s what we recommend keeping handy:
- Stud Finder — Find studs fast and avoid bad mounting spots.
- Cordless Drill/Driver — A must for driving lag bolts securely.
- 24” Level — Critical for getting that TV perfectly straight.
- Tape Measure — Double-check your layout and mounting height.
- Socket Wrench or Ratchet Set — Speeds up bolt installation.
- Cable Management Kit — Clean up those messy cords afterward.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mounting into drywall only: Disaster waiting to happen. Always hit studs.
- Crooked wall plate: Level twice, drill once.
- Wrong bolts for TV mount: Check thread size (usually M6 or M8, but TVs vary).
- Skipping pilot holes: Risk splitting the stud.
