Wall Mounted TV: Height, Size, and Installation Guide
Yes, you can mount most flat-screen TVs on a wall, and doing so frees up floor space and improves viewing angles. This guide covers how to choose the right mount, determine the correct height, and install it safely on different wall types.
Why Mount a TV on the Wall?
Wall mounting is popular because it creates a cleaner, more modern look and can make a room feel larger. It also lets you position the screen at the ideal eye level, reducing neck strain. For families with small children or pets, a mounted TV is also safer because it cannot be knocked over.
Before you start, measure your TV’s VESA pattern (the four screw holes on the back) and its weight. Most mounts support 32–85 inch TVs, but always check the mount’s weight rating against your TV’s actual weight.
How Wall Mounts Work
All TV mounts consist of two parts: a wall plate that attaches to the wall and a bracket that attaches to the TV. The TV bracket slides or locks onto the wall plate. The type of movement you need determines which mount style to buy:
- Fixed mounts hold the TV flush against the wall, about 1–2 inches away. They are the cheapest and most stable.
- Tilting mounts let you angle the screen up or down, useful when the TV is mounted above eye level.
- Full-motion (articulating) mounts allow the TV to pull out, swivel left/right, and tilt. They are ideal for corner installations or rooms with multiple seating areas.
- Ceiling mounts are used when wall space is limited or for special setups like above a bar.
Most mounts use a standard VESA pattern (e.g., 200×200, 400×400). Check your TV’s manual or measure the distance between the mounting holes to find the correct pattern.
Choosing the Right Mount
To select a mount, you need three pieces of information:
- VESA pattern – the horizontal and vertical distance (in mm) between the four screw holes.
- TV weight – found on the back label or in the manual.
- Screen size – mounts usually list a compatible size range (e.g., 32–65 inches).
If your TV is heavier than the mount’s rating, it can pull out of the wall. If the VESA pattern doesn’t match, you can buy an adapter plate, but it’s better to choose a mount that fits directly.
For drywall, you need a mount that comes with toggle bolts or snap toggles if you cannot hit a stud. For concrete or brick, use masonry anchors and screws.
What Height Should You Mount a TV?
The center of the screen should be at your eye level when you are seated in your main viewing spot. For most people, that is about 42 inches (107 cm) from the floor to the center of the TV. However, this varies with your seating height and the size of the TV.
Here is a simple way to calculate the ideal height:
- Measure the height of your TV (in inches) from top to bottom.
- Divide that number by 2 to get the vertical center.
- Subtract that from 42 inches (or your eye-level height).
- The result is the distance from the floor to the bottom of the TV.
For example, a 55-inch TV is about 28 inches tall, so the center is 14 inches from the bottom. If your eye level is 42 inches, the bottom of the TV should be 42 – 14 = 28 inches from the floor.
If you watch TV mostly while lying down, you may want the screen slightly higher. If you have a fireplace or a high console, you might mount it higher, but that can cause neck strain if you watch for long periods.
Installation Steps (Drywall and Studs)
Installing a mount is a DIY-friendly project if you have a stud finder and a drill. Here are the general steps:
- Locate studs – use a stud finder to find two adjacent studs, usually 16 inches apart. Mark their centers with a pencil.
- Hold the wall plate against the wall at your desired height, level it, and mark the screw holes.
- Drill pilot holes – use a drill bit slightly smaller than your lag bolts. For metal studs, use toggle bolts.
- Attach the wall plate with lag bolts and a socket wrench. Make sure it is tight and level.
- Attach the brackets to the TV – screw the brackets onto the back of the TV using the included screws and spacers. Do not overtighten.
- Lift the TV onto the wall plate – have a helper hold the TV while you hook the brackets onto the plate. Most mounts click into place.
- Secure the safety lock – most mounts have a locking screw or clip to prevent the TV from being lifted off.
If you cannot hit a stud, use heavy-duty toggle bolts rated for at least twice the TV’s weight. Drywall alone can hold about 50–75 pounds per toggle, but it is safer to hit at least one stud.
Common Problems and Fixes
Here are the most frequent issues people run into, and how to solve them:
- TV is not level – loosen the bolts on the wall plate slightly, adjust, and re-tighten. Some mounts have built-in leveling screws.
- Mount is too low or too high – you can buy a mount with vertical adjustment, or you can reposition the wall plate (patch the old holes).
- TV tilts forward – this usually means the mount is not rated for the TV’s weight, or the tilt tension screw is too loose. Tighten the tilt screws on the bracket.
- Cannot find studs – use a high-quality stud finder or try a magnetic one to find drywall screws. If you have metal studs, use toggle bolts.
- TV is too close to the wall for cables – use a fixed mount with a built-in cable channel, or buy a tilting mount that gives you a little more space.
If your TV is over 65 inches and weighs more than 80 pounds, consider hiring a professional installer, especially if you are mounting into concrete or brick.
Cost and Tools
Mounts range from about $20 for a basic fixed mount to $200+ for a heavy-duty full-motion mount. The tools you need are:
- Stud finder
- Drill with drill bits
- Socket wrench or screwdriver
- Level
- Pencil
If you need to buy the tools, add $50–$100 to the cost. Hiring a professional installer typically costs $100–$300, depending on the mount and wall type.
Safety and Weight Limits
Never mount a TV without checking the weight rating of the mount and the wall type. A TV falling off the wall can cause serious injury. Here are the key safety rules:
- Always attach the mount to at least two studs, or use toggle bolts rated for the weight.
- Do not use drywall anchors alone for TVs over 30 pounds.
- Keep cables out of reach of children and pets.
- If you are unsure about the wall structure, consult a professional.
Alternatives to Wall Mounting
If you rent your home, cannot drill into the wall, or simply prefer not to, there are good alternatives:
- TV stand or console – the classic option, available in many sizes and styles.
- Floor stand – a tall stand that holds the TV without any wall drilling. Good for apartments.
- Ceiling mount – useful in rooms with high ceilings or unusual layouts.
- Tabletop stand – the stand that comes with the TV, placed on a low cabinet.
Each option has trade-offs in space, aesthetics, and adjustability. Wall mounting gives the cleanest look, but a floor stand is easier to move and does not require patching holes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VESA pattern and why does it matter?
The VESA pattern is the distance in millimeters between the four mounting holes on the back of your TV. It matters because the mount’s bracket must line up with those holes. Common patterns are 200×200, 300×300, and 400×400. You can find yours in the TV manual or by measuring the holes.
Can I mount a TV on drywall without a stud?
Yes, but only if you use heavy-duty toggle bolts rated for the TV’s weight. A single toggle bolt in drywall can hold about 50–75 pounds, but it is safer to hit at least one stud. For TVs over 50 pounds, use two studs or a professional.
How do I hide the cables after mounting?
You can use a cable raceway kit that sticks to the wall and covers the cords, or you can cut holes in the drywall and run cables through the wall. The latter requires more work but looks cleaner. Always use a cable cover rated for low-voltage wires.
What if my TV is too heavy for the mount?
Do not use a mount that is rated for less than your TV’s weight. Check the mount’s specifications for the maximum weight. If your TV exceeds it, buy a heavier-duty mount. Using an under-rated mount can cause the TV to fall.
Can I mount a TV above a fireplace?
Yes, but it is not recommended for daily viewing because the heat and the high angle can cause neck strain. If you do, use a tilting mount to angle the screen down. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the maximum ambient temperature for your TV.
Do I need a professional to install a TV mount?
If you are comfortable using a drill and a stud finder, you can do it yourself. However, if you have plaster walls, metal studs, or a very large TV, a professional can ensure it is done safely. The cost is often worth the peace of mind.
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