How to Mount a TV on the Wall

Difficulty: Medium • Time: 60 min active, 90 min total • Estimated cost: $25-80 • Safety: DIY-friendly

Overview

Wall-mounting a TV transforms a room — it saves space, looks clean, and puts the screen at the perfect viewing height. The job is simpler than most people think, but the key is finding wall studs and using them. A TV mounted only to drywall WILL fall.

The ideal TV height places the center of the screen at eye level when seated, which is typically 42-48 inches from the floor to the center of the TV. Going higher (like above a fireplace) causes neck strain during long viewing sessions.

This guide works for any TV size from 32 to 85 inches. The process is the same — only the mount size and number of lag bolts change.

Tools Needed

Stud finder
Drill with bits
Socket wrench or adjustable wrench
Level (2ft or longer)
Tape measure
Pencil
Phillips screwdriver

Materials Needed

TV wall mount (match your TV size/weight) — $20-60
Lag bolts (usually included with mount) — $5
Cable management kit — $10-15

Step-by-Step Instructions

Choose the location and find studs: Hold a piece of painter's tape where you want the TV center. Sit in your normal viewing position and check the height feels right (eye level when seated, about 42-48 inches from floor to TV center). Use a stud finder to locate at least two wall studs in the mounting area. Mark both edges of each stud with pencil. Studs are typically 16 inches apart. You MUST mount into studs — drywall alone cannot support a TV.
Attach the mounting plate to the wall: Hold the mounting plate against the wall, centered on your marked studs. Use a level to ensure it's perfectly horizontal — even 1 degree off will be visible and annoying forever. Mark the lag bolt holes through the plate onto the wall. Pre-drill pilot holes slightly smaller than the lag bolts. Drive the lag bolts through the plate into the studs until snug, then 1/4 turn more. Don't over-tighten — you can crack the stud.
Attach the brackets to the TV: Lay the TV face-down on a soft blanket or towel. Locate the VESA mounting holes on the back (4 threaded holes in a square pattern). Attach the TV brackets using the bolts provided with the mount. Use spacers if needed to clear any curves or ports on the TV back. Tighten firmly but don't strip the threads.
Hang the TV and connect cables: This is a two-person job for any TV over 40 inches. Lift the TV and hook the brackets onto the wall plate. Most mounts click into place. Adjust the tilt angle if your mount supports it. Connect HDMI, power, and any other cables. Use a cable management kit or raceway to hide the cords running down to your outlet and devices.
Level and secure: Step back and check that the TV is level. Most full-motion mounts allow small adjustments after hanging. Tighten all adjustment bolts. Give the TV a gentle tug forward and side to side — it should feel absolutely solid with zero wobble. If it moves at all, check that your lag bolts are fully into studs, not just drywall.

When to Call a Professional

Call a professional if you can't find studs (metal stud walls, concrete, or brick require special anchors), if you want cables hidden inside the wall (requires cutting drywall and possibly an electrician for in-wall power), or if the TV is over 75 inches and very heavy.