Iowa Homeowners: Here's How To Properly Mount Your New TV

Whether you're watching Iowa State football or Hallmark movies this season, you better have the right television. If you snagged a new TV just in time for winter, take care to mount it properly.

Failing to do so can risk your drywall and your new flat screen. If you are at all unsure of your abilities or have a complex installation like brick, hire a professional handyman to do the job for an affordable fee.

Think you’re up for the task? Be sure to have an extra set of hands available to help, and follow our thorough guide. You’ll be binging Netflix in high-definition in no time.

How to Mount Your TV to Drywall

Before you start, gather the following materials:

• a wall mount kit for your size TV
• a stud finder
• drill and assorted bits
• level
• screw drivers
• tape measure
• Pencil

Then, carefully read the directions that came with your wall-mount package and you’re ready to get started!

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 Iowa.

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