Wall Mount a TV

How to Wall Mount a Flat Panel TV

1. 1 Screw Mounting Bracket to Back of TV

   
   

   Check that the appropriate hardware has been included with your TV mount. Pry off any plastic caps covering the mounting screw holes in the back of the TV. Lay the TV face down on a soft, cloth-covered surface and screw the mounting bracket to the back of the TV. Be careful not to overtighten the screws. Remove the TV’s base and lay the unit on its back in a safe location.

2. 2 Locate Studs Using a Stud Finder

   
   

   Locate the studs for the wall mount using a studfinder, and mark the stud centers. If you planning on running in-wall cable to the back of the TV, use your studfinder (if it’s capable) to check for any plumbing or electrical in the wall cavity.

3. 3 Use a Level to Measure + Mark Bottom Edge of Wall Mount

   
   

   Measure up from the floor and mark for the bottom edge of the wall mount at the stud locations. The center of the TV should be located at the eye level of someone seated across from the TV—usually 40” to 42” from the floor. Use a level to draw a guideline for the bottom of the mount.

4. 4 Position Wall Mount + Drill Pilot Holes for Mounting Screws

   
   

   Position the wall-mount plate, check for level with a torpedo level, and mark the screw holes. Drill pilot holes for the mounting screws. Screw the mounting plate into the wall studs, using the supplied fasteners

5. 5 Hook Up Cables + Slide TV Brackets into Wall Mount

   
   

   Hook up all cables and slide the TV brackets into the wall mount. Although you can buy wall-mount brackets that allow for multi-angle positioning, those won’t be necessary in most basements. Look for a basic, non-tilting mounting bracket that is low-profile, sturdy, relatively easy to install, and inexpensive.