Attaching anything to a dry wall is a problem most home owners have faced at some stage. Everything from paintings to mirrors each presents their own problems.
In most cases, extremely light objects can be handled with products as simple as double-sided velcro tape. Moving up to heavier objects, the situation becomes more complex. Shelving, whitegoods (dryers, washing machines) and of course, televisions fall into this category.
Unfortunately, studs are not always available. Or, in many cases, only one is in the correct position.
All wall types present their unique blend of complications, but mounted correctly, nearly every wall can accommodate a quality TV mount.
Television mounts add to the problem, and not only due to physical weight. Television mounts that extend from the wall exert additional pressure for every inch moved forward.
It is important not to use guesswork when mounting into a dry wall. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions to see if the model chosen is suitable for dry wall mounting.
Plus, you must use dry wall anchors supplied. If there is no specific mention of dry wall mounting, don’t risk it.
Stud walls, in theory, should be uncomplicated. Find the studs, screw in the mounts securely and you’re done. But, as simple as this sound, we suggest taking out some time to make sure the job is done correctly.
Firstly, never mount into metal studs. Metal studs are strong, however they present a problem for screw threading, and will never be able to grip adequately due to the very thin wall sections of the studs. When mounting into wooden studs, observe the following:
- Find the studs using a battery operated stud finder. If you don’t have a stud finder, you can locate the studs by tapping the wall with the base of your palm. The sound should change once you hit the stud area, although this is not a guarantee that you actually locate a stud. Or, tap small nails into the wall close to the skirting board – you’ll know once you hit wood.
- Try to locate the centre of the stud for maximum strength.
- Locate both studs before drilling. One stud may have a metal plate join, meaning you may need to locate your mount slightly higher or lower.
- Drill your holes cautiously – it’s better to drill to small than too big. You need the tightest fit possible with the hardware that you will be using.
- Before mounting your TV, check the strength of your brackets by firmly pulling up and down on them.
Remember, studs can be placed at different intervals. If you can only locate one stud within the desired range, don’t assume that you can use a dry wall anchor on the other. Dry wall anchors can only be used for mounting products specific to this task.
Don’t let a dry wall exclude you from the benefits of TV wall mount hence with a little bit of care, you’ll be enjoying your wall-mounted TV in no time at all!