Flat screen TVs are quite a significant investment, so when it comes time to hang it on the wall, you need to be sure it’s going to stay there and not come crashing to the ground. Ideally, when mounting the TV on drywall, you need to find the stud and attach it securely there. However, the studs behind the wall probably weren’t positioned with your TV in mind. It may be that the place you want to hang your TV hasn’t got a stud behind it, so you need to use something that will ensure the TV and its mounting bracket stays firmly in place. There’s a new fixing now available on the market for just such an occasion. Moen, an American faucet manufacturer, has created a wall anchor system that can hold up to 150 pounds. More than adequate for your flat screen TV and the mounting bracket.
What mounting materials do I need?
If you plan on mounting a flat-screen TV on plasterboard walls, having the right tools and materials is essential for a secure and successful installation. Here are some key items you’ll need to ensure a smooth mounting process:
- Cordless Drill. A cordless drill is essential for any plasterboard installation. Not only does it give you the convenience of cord-free mobility, but its power and variety of drill bits make the job easier. Make sure your chosen tool has enough strength to drive screws in and the right attachments to fit different sizes.
- 4-in-1 Screwdriver. The multi-functional and space-saving features of the incredible four-in-one screwdriver make it an ideal tool for any home project.
- Hole-saw Kit. If you need to run cables through the wall or create openings for electrical outlets, a hole-saw kit will be essential. This kit typically includes different-sized hole saws, which are specialised drill bits designed for cutting precise circular holes. Ensure that the hole saws are compatible with plasterboard, and choose sizes that accommodate the cables or outlets you’ll be working with.
- Wall Anchor. It is ideal for fixed or pivoting mounts but not the swing-out style. Get all your tools and equipment together and start by drilling a 3cm hole in the wall. Place the sleeve in the hole and slide in the anchor. Using the pull tool provided, you now need to pull the anchor up against the back of the drywall. Then it’s ready to screw the bracket in place.
Having these mounting materials readily available will save you time and ensure a professional-looking installation. Remember to prioritise safety by wearing protective eyewear and following the manufacturer’s instructions for each tool and material used. With the right tools in hand, you’ll be well-prepared to mount your flat-screen TV securely on plasterboard walls.
Steps to Mounting a Flat Screen TV on Plasterboard Walls
It’s crucial to follow the proper steps to ensure a secure and successful installation. Here are the key steps to mount a flat-screen TV on plasterboard walls:
- Determine the mounting location – Choose the ideal location on the plasterboard wall where you want to mount your TV. Consider factors like viewing angle, distance from the seating area, and any potential obstructions. You can use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall.
- Attach the wall mount bracket – To attach the wall mount bracket, align it with the marked studs on the wall and use a level to ensure it is straight. Mark the mounting hole locations on the wall, then drill pilot holes into those marked locations using a suitable drill bit for the screws.
- Install wall anchors (if necessary) – In cases when it’s impossible to mount the TV into studs or the stud placement doesn’t align with where you want it to be, you’ll have to bring them into play.
- Attach the bracket to the wall – When affixing your bracket to the wall, start by lining it up with the pre-drilled holes and any necessary wall anchors. Next, insert screws through the bracket and into the pilot holes or anchor points. Doing this will firmly secure your bracket in place.
- Mount the TV onto the bracket – With the wall mount bracket securely installed, refer to your TV’s user manual for instructions on attaching the TV to the bracket. Enlist the help of a friend or family member to carefully lift and mount the TV onto the bracket, ensuring that it locks into place.
- Conceal cables and wiring – To achieve a clean and organised look, consider hiding the cables and wiring behind the wall or using cable management solutions.
- Test and adjust – Once the TV is mounted, test the functionality and adjust the viewing angle if necessary
Enjoy your newly mounted flat-screen TV and the enhanced viewing experience it brings to your space!
How much weight can I hang on a plaster wall?
When hanging items on a wall, the weight capacity must be taken into consideration to guarantee that there is no damage caused. Plaster walls are particularly fragile compared to other materials, such as drywall and concrete. Therefore, one must be aware of the components that factor into the strength of a plaster wall, like thickness, condition, and fasteners used for anchoring. Generally speaking, hanging heavy objects directly onto plaster should be avoided unless absolutely certain of its stability.
When considering the strength of a wall and its capacity to hold weight, it is wise to turn to a professional for advice. A handyman or someone who knows their way around tools will be able to provide the right kind of expertise and help you make sure that your wall can handle whatever load you intend for it.
Hiring a professional to wall mount your TV
It’s better you call in an expert to get the work done efficiently and effectively. The services of a handyman don’t come cheap. But it’s more cost-effective than attempting the work and then being faced with an enormous repair bill because you weren’t able to complete the job correctly. There are plenty of handymen waiting to offer their services, whether the work is in a residential or commercial property. But make sure you choose the right one. Ask friends and family for a recommendation, and do your research before you hire someone.
Conclusion
To mount a flat-screen TV on plasterboard walls, it’s essential to approach the task with care and utilise the appropriate tools and materials. Following the correct steps is vital to achieve a successful installation. If you lack the necessary skills or confidence, it’s advisable to enlist the help of a professional to wall mount your TV. Professionals possess the expertise and understanding needed to ensure a proper and secure installation, minimising the risk of errors and expensive repairs. By considering these factors, you can confidently mount your flat-screen TV on plasterboard walls, enhancing your viewing experience while preserving the integrity of your walls.
