DIY TV Mounting: How to Get Professional Results Without the Professional Cost

The good news is that with the right tools, a little patience, and a DIY mindset, you can mount your TV like a pro — without the professional cost.

Mounting your TV on the wall can transform your living space, giving your room a sleek, modern look and saving valuable floor space. However, many people shy away from DIY TV mounting because they think it's too complicated or that they’ll need to hire a professional to get the job done right.

1. Choosing the Right TV Mount

Before diving into the mounting process, it's important to choose the right mount for your TV. Different mounts offer various features such as tilting, swiveling, and full-motion capabilities. For a simple, secure setup, a fixed or tilting mount might be ideal, but if you want the flexibility to adjust your TV for optimal viewing angles, a full-motion mount could be a better choice.

When selecting a mount, be sure to consider your TV's size, weight, and VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) pattern — the distance between the mounting holes on the back of your TV. Most mounts will list the compatible TV sizes and VESA patterns, ensuring you get the perfect match.

2. Gather the Necessary Tools

Having the right tools at your disposal is key to achieving a professional-looking installation. Here’s a list of essentials to get you started:

• Stud finder – Locating the studs behind your wall is crucial for ensuring the mount can support the weight of your TV.
  
  
• Power drill – You'll need this to make holes for the mounting brackets.
  
  
• Level – To make sure your TV is mounted evenly.
  
  
• Screwdriver – To tighten the screws once the mount is in place.
  
  
• Tape measure – To measure the correct height and ensure everything is aligned properly.
  
  
• Pencil – For marking the drill points on the wall.

Having all the necessary tools will streamline the process and ensure that your mount is securely attached.

3. Prepare Your Wall

Now that you have everything you need, it's time to get started. The first step is to prepare your wall for mounting. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall, which are the strong vertical beams that can support the weight of your TV. Mark these locations lightly with a pencil.

It's also important to decide where you want your TV to sit. A common rule of thumb is that the center of the TV should be at eye level when you’re seated, which is typically around 42 inches from the floor to the center of the screen. Once you’ve determined the best spot, use your tape measure to ensure the mount is centered and level on the wall.

4. Install the Mounting Bracket

Next, you’ll need to install the mounting bracket onto the wall. Position the bracket so that the holes line up with the stud marks you made earlier. Use a level to ensure the bracket is straight, then drill pilot holes into the studs. Attach the bracket to the wall using the screws provided with your mount, tightening them securely.

If you're using a full-motion mount, you'll need to install the arm mechanism that will hold your TV. Follow the specific instructions for your mount to make sure it’s securely attached and able to move as needed.

5. Attach the TV to the Mount

Once the bracket is securely mounted, it’s time to attach the mounting plate to the back of your TV. The mounting plate will typically be included with the TV mount kit and will fit into the VESA holes on your TV. Use the screws provided to secure the plate tightly.

With some mounts, the TV will simply hook onto the wall bracket, while others may require you to bolt the plate into place. Ensure everything is aligned properly and that your TV is securely attached to the mount.

6. Finishing Touches

Once your TV is securely mounted, it’s time to do some final checks. Make sure the TV is level and adjust the position as needed. If you’re using a full-motion mount, test the swivel and tilt features to ensure they work smoothly. You may also want to install cable management clips or sleeves to keep cables organized and out of sight, giving your setup a clean, professional look.

Conclusion

DIY TV mounting is not only possible but can be a rewarding project that saves you money and enhances your living space. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can achieve professional results without the hefty cost of hiring an expert. The key is preparation, patience, and careful execution. Whether you’re mounting a flat screen in your living room or setting up a TV in your bedroom, this DIY project can be completed with ease — and the result will be a stylish, secure setup that looks like it was done by a pro.