Mounting a TV over a fireplace can be a great solution for saving space and creating a streamlined look, but it's important to consider certain factors before doing so. First and foremost: Heat. Make sure you do not mount your TV over an actual heat source that exceeds 100°F. It is better to mount a TV over a decorative fireplace or one that is not used to actually heat the room, to avoid heat damage to the TV and potentially even the mount. Height, installation and cable routing are other factors to consider.
How High Should a TV Be Mounted Over a Fireplace?
The height at which a TV should be mounted over a fireplace depends on the size and height of the fireplace, as well as the height of the viewers. However, as a general guideline, the center of the TV screen should be at or slightly below eye level when seated. If the TV is mounted too high, it can cause neck strain and discomfort when viewing for an extended period of time. Additionally, mounting the TV too high can make it difficult to see the screen and enjoy the content. A great solution are height adjustable fireplace TV mounts, which allow you to pull the TV down when in use and still take advantage of the space above the fireplace. There are manual and motorized fireplace TV mounts available to choose from.
How To Mount a TV On the Wall
Mounting a TV to a wall can be a relatively straightforward process if you have the right tools and follow the necessary steps. First, choose a wall mount. There are different types of wall mounts, including fixed mounts, tilting mounts, and full-motion mounts. Select a mount that is compatible with your TV's size and weight, and that is appropriate for the location where you want to mount the TV. In preparation for the installation, use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall where you want to mount the TV. Make sure the studs are solid and able to support the weight of the TV and the mount. Use a level and a pencil to mark the location of the studs and the desired height of the TV. Attach the wall mount to the wall using screws and bolts, making sure to securely fasten it to the studs. Follow the instructions in the user manual, as every mount installation can be a little different. Once the mount is installed, carefully lift the TV onto the wall mount, making sure to align the mounting plate with the mount on the wall. Then, secure the TV to the mount according to the manufacturer's instructions. Lastly, connect the necessary cables to the TV, such as HDMI, power, and audio cables.
Tips For Mounting a TV On a Corner Fireplace
Mounting a TV on a corner fireplace can present some unique challenges, but there are some tips and tricks that can help make the process easier and more successful. For a corner fireplace, you'll need a mount that allows you to angle the TV towards the viewing area. A tilting or full-motion mount may be the best option, depending on the size and weight of your TV. When mounting a TV on a corner fireplace, it's important to consider the height and angle of the TV. The TV should be mounted at a height that allows for comfortable viewing, with the center of the screen at or slightly below eye level. Additionally, the TV should be angled towards the seating area for optimal viewing. A swivel mount can be a good option for a corner fireplace, as it allows you to adjust the angle of the TV for different viewing positions. Running cables to the TV on a corner fireplace can be challenging, so it's important to plan ahead for cable management. Consider using cable covers or conduit to hide the cables and prevent them from becoming a safety hazard. If you're unsure about the best way to mount your TV on a corner fireplace, or if you don't have the necessary tools or experience, it may be best to hire a professional to help with the installation. They can ensure that the TV is securely mounted and properly angled for optimal viewing.
Mounting a TV on Brick Vs. Wall
Mounting a TV on a brick wall is different from mounting it on a wall with studs, as it requires different tools and techniques. Here are some things to consider when mounting a TV on brick versus wall studs:
Mounting a TV on brick requires specialized tools such as a masonry drill bit, a hammer drill, and concrete anchors. Make sure you have the necessary tools before starting the installation. To drill the holes into a brick wall, use a hammer drill with a masonry bit. Insert concrete anchors into the holes and tighten them until they are secure. Then, attach the wall mount to the anchors according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once the wall mount is securely attached to the brick wall, you can mount the TV onto the mount.
To mount a TV on wall studs, first use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall where you want to mount the TV. Use a pencil to mark the location of the wall mount on the wall where the studs are located and attach the wall mount to the wall using screws and bolts, making sure to securely fasten it to the studs. Once the wall mount is securely attached to the wall, you can mount the TV onto the mount. When it comes to mounting a TV, both brick and wall studs can be a suitable surface, but the mounting process will differ. It's important to use the appropriate tools and follow the manufacturer's instructions for a safe and secure installation.
Screws For Mounting a TV And Other Accessories Needed
When mounting a TV, you will need a few accessories to ensure a safe and secure installation.
The wall mount you decided to purchase will typically come with screws and bolts that are appropriate for attaching the mount to the wall. Make sure to use the appropriate screws for the type of wall you are mounting the TV on (e.g. drywall, brick, concrete). A stud finder is essential for finding the wall studs to which you will attach the wall mount. This will ensure a more secure installation. A bubble level is needed to ensure that the wall mount is installed straight and level. This is important for both the safety of the TV and for the appearance of the installation. A drill may be needed to make holes in the wall for the wall mount screws and bolts. To tighten the screws and bolts that attach the wall mount to the wall, you will need a screwdriver. Lastly, and depending on your setup, you may need cable ties, cord covers, or other cable management accessories to keep the cables neat and tidy.
How To Use a Wall Mount Adapter
Using a wall mount adapter can be a simple solution if your TV is not compatible with your VESA mount. However, it's important to make sure that the adapter is compatible with both the TV and the mount to ensure a safe and secure installation. Be sure to carefully read the manufacturer's instructions and follow all safety guidelines when installing the adapter. An alternative to mounting your TV on a wall, is using a TV Stand that does not require VESA and can be placed anywhere in the room.