TV installation is the process of mounting a flat screen television to a wall or ceiling. The exact procedure depends on the type of mount you use, as well as the weight and size of your TV. It’s important to follow the instructions that come with your mount, as improper mounting can damage both the mount and your TV. It’s also a good idea to have a friend help you lift, position, and hang your TV. If you’re not comfortable using a power drill, you can hire a professional to do the work for you.
Most flat screens are relatively heavy, and the larger the screen, the heavier it will be. It is nearly impossible for a single person to safely lift and place a large flat screen on a wall without risking injury to themselves or damaging the TV. If you are not comfortable mounting a large, high-end flat screen yourself, it’s best to hire a professional TV installer instead of trying to do it yourself.
A typical TV wall mount will come with two parts: the part that attaches to the wall, and the VESA (standardized) portion that attaches to the back of your TV. Start by examining the back of your TV to see what kind of screw holes it has, and consult your TV’s manual for details about how to mount it. Then, using a tape measure, mark upward from the floor to the desired height you want your TV mounted. Once you’ve determined the desired height, place a piece of paper or the mounting plate on the wall at that location, and use a bubble level to ensure it’s straight up and down. Next, use a cordless drill to drill pilot holes in each of the locations you marked. Finally, hold the wall-mount bracket up to the wall and screw it firmly into the drywall using the screws included in your kit.
Once the “wall” half of the mount is secured to your drywall, it’s time to move on to the TV. Place your TV face-down on a soft surface like a carpet or blanket, and carefully lower it onto the mount’s hooks, being careful not to damage the screen. You may need to use a flat head screwdriver or drill to tighten the screws, and it’s always a good idea to have someone help you lift, position, and hang your television.
Once the TV is on the mount, locate the VESA holes on the back of your TV and align them with the screws in each of the mounting bracket’s hooks. Most mounts have a color-coded guide that shows what color represents where each of the two hooks screw into on the back of your TV. Once you find the right match, screw the hooks into your drywall, and then put your TV in place. If you used a wall-mount that requires lag screws, have a friend hammer the lag screws into the guides on the wall and then recheck that your TV is still level.
