Wall Mounting Your Plasma or LCD TV

So, you've bought yourself a brand new, flat screen LCD or Plasma television. Congrats. You have that lucky wall chosen to mount it on in the family room that is soon to become your retreat. There's only one question remaining - How to wall mount your flat screen TV?

The very first thing you need to consider is whether you're going to mount it on your own or hire an expert. If you are undecided about any of the following information, you're better off to hire somebody to take care of the job. But, if you'd like to dirty your hands and possibly make a few mistakes or miscalculations so you can have a sense of achievement, then by all means, keep reading.

Once you have picked out the wall and designated an hour or so to get this job done, you should figure out whether the wall is an exterior or interior wall. Although it's not so in every case, interior walls usually give you less trouble than walls that are on the exterior.

Of course, we're assuming you've already made sure that your Plasma TV actually can be mounted, right? Just in case you have not done this, you shouldn't worry. You should know that while a lot flat screen TVs that are on the market now are mountable, there are a few early models that were not. Take a good look at the box. Do you see “VESA Compatible” or something like it? If it is there, you are in luck, and you can now move on. And, since you have done a little homework and picked the right wall mount bracket for your display, you can get right to the entertaining part - the tools. If you have the basic tools in your toolbox, such as a screw driver, drill, and a tape measure, you're doing okay. It is also a good idea if you have a stud finder to be sure you don't try to mount your new TV in just drywall.

When you have an idea of where you would like the new flat screen, look for a stud and make final placement modifications. You shouldn't forget to be certain that you are close to an electrical outlet or you will just have a worthless screen on your wall. Once you've found a stud, you can attach the wall brackets to the back of the TV screen. You should take care of this before you put the TV bracket on the wall so you know if any changes need to be made to the final mount placement.

Once adjustments are made, mark where the anchor bolts should be installed and pre-drill the holes, since they are often a challenge to start. You should also go ahead and cut space for cabling when you place the anchors and then you will be able to run the cables. Make certain that the wall mount is leveled and then sink the anchors. Once the TV brackets and wall mount are secured, ask someone for some assistance lifting the screen on wall. You shouldn't try to lift it on your own because flat screens tend to get awkward and heavy if they're lifted by one person.

Now for the very best part - sit down with a cold drink of choice and watch a movie on your new wall mounted Plasma or LCD TV.