How do I mount a TV on the wall safely?
Anchor the mount into wall studs whenever you can, and check that the mount is rated for your TV. A bracket's weight rating describes the bracket, not the wall. Find the studs, check for pipes and wires, mount the plate level, then lift the TV on with a helper.
How it is usually fixed
- Identify the wall. Drywall over studs is the easy case. Plaster and lath, brick and concrete need different tools and anchors.
- Find the studs with a stud finder and mark them. Mounting into studs is safer than relying on drywall anchors.
- Check for hidden pipes or wiring before drilling.
- Drill pilot holes, fasten the wall plate with the hardware that came with the mount, and check it with a level.
- Lift the TV onto the plate with a second person, then give it a gentle shake to confirm it does not move.
When it is not a handyman job
Running power inside the wall is electrical work, and we refer it to a licensed electrician. Very heavy TVs, brick and fireplace mounts need extra care and may need other hardware.
Plumbing, electrical and roofing go to licensed independent contractors.
What we do on a visit
- Locate studs and check the wall
- Mount the bracket level
- Hang the TV and check it is secure
- Mount shelves, soundbars and speakers
Common questions
Can I mount a TV on drywall without a stud?
It is not recommended for anything heavy. Drywall anchors hold less than a stud, so a mount that is safe in studs can fail in drywall alone.
Do you hide the cables?
We can route cords neatly outside the wall. Running power cable through the wall is electrical work and goes to a licensed electrician.
What should I send you before a TV mounting visit?
Send the TV model, the size, and whether you already have a mount. A photo of the wall and the spot you have in mind helps. We can then check that the mount suits the TV and the wall, and tell you if anything else is needed.
Can you mount a TV on brick, plaster or metal studs?
It depends on the wall. Brick and concrete need masonry anchors, and plaster and metal studs need extra care. A typical mount is made for wood studs, so we check the wall first. If it is not suited to the mount, we will tell you before drilling.
Related repairs
We serve Highland Park, Glencoe, Winnetka, Kenilworth, Lake Forest, Barrington Hills, Bannockburn, Deerfield, Lake Bluff, Lincolnshire, Glenview, Northbrook, Wilmette, Highwood, Northfield, Riverwoods, IL.