Rhode Island Homeowners: Guide To Wall Mounting Your New TV

New smart televisions are loaded with all the features and gadgets any Rhode Island homeowner can wish for. Is this the year you replace that old TV with one that delivers outstanding performance?

Once you’ve brought home your new TV and taken it out of the box, you’ll need to decide if you’re going to place it onto a TV stand, wall mount the unit yourself, or hire an experienced installer.

Most flat screen TVs have been designed with pre-made holes on the back for wall mounting.

Here’s why:

• Save floor space and reduce the clutter of cables and wires.
• Create a sleek and modern look in any room.
• Install your TV at the perfect angle and height for best viewing.

If you decide that wall mounting is the best option, use these tips to do the job yourself. Before beginning, read the instructions that come with your flat screen TV and have these materials and tools ready before you start:

• Correct size mount for the TV
• Pencil
• Tape measure
• Stud finder
• Small level and tape measure
• Screwdriver
• Power drill and bits

1. Choose location and viewing height

Plan ahead before you start drilling holes in the wall! Consider these points when choosing location:

• For optimal viewing, your TV should be at eye level when sitting down to watch.
• Choose a location that has easy access to cable inputs and power outlets.
• Avoid mounting in direct sunlight to reduce glare.
• Avoid mounting above a fireplace to reduce damage from heat and soot.

2. Attach mounting arms

Place the TV face down onto a soft blanket. Then attach the arms into the four holes at the back of the TV using the hardware that came with the mounting kit. Make sure the mounting arms are level and that you don’t over-tighten the bolts.

3. Locate wall studs

Using the stud finder, locate two studs to support the weight of the TV. Mark each stud with the pencil. Measure the distance between the bottom and top holes of the mounting arms, marking the studs in the center to correspond with these two holes. Use the level to make sure the holes are even and straight.

4. Hang TV bracket

Using the power drill, drill pilot holes into the marked studs. Attach the bracket to the wall with the provided hardware, checking with the level to ensure it’s even before tightening.

5. Mounting TV to the wall

Before hanging the TV, connect the cabling. With a helper for easier installation, place the TV onto the frame, adjusting if needed to straighten. Make sure the TV is securely attached and test connections, checking that your new flat screen television is working properly.

6. Hiding wires

If you want a clean and modern finish to your project without the visible mess of cables and wires, use these two options:

• Raceways – For less than $20, purchase a paintable wire management raceway. These kits come in different sizes and shapes and can be painted to match your wall color.
• TV wiring kits – For $50 to $100, install a TV wiring kit behind the wall to hide cables and wires.

Want to leave wall mounting your new TV to a professional? Contact HomeAdvisor for help finding TV mounting services throughout Rhode Island.

This Patch article is sponsored by Home Advisor.