Installing a wall-mounted 85-inch TV can transform your living space into a modern entertainment hub, allowing for a clean aesthetic and maximizing floor space. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to successfully mounting your oversized flat screen, ensuring stability, safety, and a polished finish.
Why Mounting Your 85-Inch TV is a Great Idea
Mounting your TV not only enhances your viewing experience but also saves valuable floor space. With an 85-inch TV, the benefits multiply:
Enhanced Viewing Experience: By positioning your TV at eye level, you reduce neck strain and enhance comfort during viewing.
Cleaner Aesthetics: Wall-mounting eliminates the clutter of TV stands and furniture, contributing to a minimalist look.
Safety: Wall installation reduces the risk of tipping, especially in households with children and pets.
Gathering Your Tools and Materials
Before diving into the mounting process, ensure you have all the necessary tools at hand. Here’s a checklist to help you get started:
- Stud finder
- Level
- Screwdriver (drill may be needed for some installations)
- Measuring tape
- Mounting bracket (appropriate for 85-inch TV)
- Wall anchors (if needed)
- Helper (recommended for safety)
Selecting the Right Mounting Bracket
Not all mounting brackets are created equal—especially for larger TVs. Here’s what you should consider when selecting a bracket for your 85-inch TV:
Types of Mounts
Fixed Mounts: These keep your TV flat against the wall and are the simplest option.
Tilting Mounts: These allow you to angle the TV downwards, ideal for higher placements.
Articulating Mounts: These provide maximum flexibility, allowing you to pull the TV away from the wall and swivel it.
Weight Capacity
Always check the weight capacity of your chosen mount. Most 85-inch TVs weigh between 75-100 pounds, so ensure the mount supports this weight comfortably.
VESA Compatibility
Ensure that the mounting bracket is compatible with your TV’s VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) pattern, which specifies the distances between the mounting holes on the back of the TV.
Selecting the Perfect Location
Choosing the right wall for your TV involves several factors:
Viewing Distance
For an 85-inch television, the ideal viewing distance is between 10 to 15 feet to ensure optimal picture quality and comfort.
Height Placement
A general rule of thumb is to mount the TV so the center of the screen is at eye level when seated. Typically, this means the middle of the TV should be about 42 inches from the floor.
Avoiding Glare
Place the TV away from windows to minimize glare. If glare cannot be avoided, consider using curtains or blinds to regulate natural light.
Preparing the Wall for Mounting
Before actually mounting the TV, prepare the wall. Follow these steps:
Stud Finding
Use a stud finder to locate the wooden or metal studs in your wall, as these will provide the necessary support for your TV mount. Mark the stud locations with a pencil.
Measuring and Marking
Using your measuring tape, mark where you plan to position the bracket. Use a level to ensure that your marks are straight, preventing a crooked display.
Installing the Mounting Bracket
With your wall prepared, it’s time to install the mounting bracket.
Attach the Bracket to the Wall
Align the Bracket: Position the mounting bracket over your marked stud locations. Use a level to ensure it is straight.
Drill Pilot Holes: If you’re anchoring into studs, use a power drill to create pilot holes for your screws.
Secure the Bracket: Using the screws provided with your mount, attach the bracket to the wall. Ensure you tighten them securely but avoid over-tightening and damaging the drywall.
Attach the Bracket to Your TV
Most mounting brackets include separate attachments for the TV. Here’s how to proceed:
Attach the Mounting Arms: Locate the mounting holes on the back of your TV and attach the provided mounting arms.
Tighten Securely: Make sure these arms are securely fastened, as they will bear the weight of your TV.
Mounting the TV
The moment has arrived to lift your TV and mount it onto the wall bracket.
Get Help
Due to the size and weight of an 85-inch TV, this is not a one-person job. Have a friend assist you to ensure safety and stability.
Aligning and Securing
With one person holding the TV, align the mounted arms on the back of the TV with the wall bracket. Once aligned, lift the TV into position and gently slide it until it clicks into place.
Final Checks
Double-check that the TV is secure by gently pulling on it. Make sure it doesn’t slide or wobble.
Organizing Cables and Making It Look Good
Congratulations! Your TV is now mounted. However, it’s time to tackle the inevitable cable chaos.
Cable Management Solutions
Cable Covers: Use plastic or fabric cable covers to conceal your wires along the wall.
In-wall Cable Management: If you want a clean look, consider using in-wall systems that are Code-compliant, allowing cables to run behind the wall.
Testing Your Setup
Once everything is mounted:
Power On
Power up your TV and ensure all functions are working properly. Check for picture clarity and ensure sound quality meets your expectations.
Adjust Your Settings
Explore the TV settings to adjust picture settings, sound settings, and any smart features to your liking.
Maintaining TV Height and Placement
Once mounted, it’s important to evaluate your setup. Make adjustments as needed:
Reassess Viewing Angle
View from different spots in the room to ensure comfort and visibility.
Periodic Checks
Regularly inspect the mount to ensure it remains secure, and adjust cable arrangements as needed to avoid damage.
Conclusion
Mounting an 85-inch TV on the wall can dramatically improve your viewing experience and enhance your room’s aesthetic. By following the steps outlined in this article—from selecting the right mount to ensuring secure installation—you can feel confident in your ability to perform this DIY task. Now is the time to kick back, enjoy your favorite shows, and bask in the glory of your newly-mounted television.
With careful planning, the right tools, and a commitment to safety, your 85-inch TV will not only look great but will also provide an enhanced viewing experience for years to come. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your sleek, modern entertainment setup!
What tools do I need to mount an 85-inch TV on the wall?
To successfully mount an 85-inch TV, you’ll need a range of tools to ensure a smooth installation. Commonly required tools include a stud finder, a level, a measuring tape, a drill, and various drill bits. Additionally, you may need a socket set or screwdriver to secure the mounting hardware. It’s also beneficial to have a friend assist you in lifting and positioning the TV during the installation.
Before starting, it’s essential to double-check that you have all the necessary mounting hardware. Most wall mounts come with the required screws and brackets, but it’s advisable to have extra screws, wall anchors, and spacers on hand in case you encounter any installation issues. Having these tools accessible will streamline the process and help you avoid any interruptions.
How do I choose the right wall mount for my 85-inch TV?
Selecting the correct wall mount for your 85-inch TV involves several factors, including the weight of your TV and the type of wall it will be mounted on. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the wall mount is rated for the weight of your TV. Look for mounts that offer VESA compatibility, which indicates that they can be easily connected to your TV’s mounting holes.
Additionally, consider the style of mount that best suits your viewing needs. Fixed mounts keep your TV flat against the wall, while tilting mounts allow for slight angle adjustments for optimized viewing. Full-motion or articulating mounts offer the most flexibility, allowing you to pivot and extend your TV, making it easy to adjust based on seating arrangements or sunlight glare.
How high should I mount my 85-inch TV?
The ideal height for mounting your 85-inch TV depends on several factors, including your seating arrangement and the height of your eyes when seated. A general rule is to ensure that the center of the screen is at eye level, which is typically around 42 to 48 inches from the floor for a viewing distance of about 10 to 12 feet. However, personal comfort and room layout should be considered too.
If you’re mounting the TV above furniture, such as a console or fireplace, it’s important to adjust the height accordingly. Ensuring optimal viewing angles is crucial for an enjoyable experience, so take the time to measure and visualize how the setup will feel in your space before finalizing the height at which to mount your TV.
What type of wall should I mount my 85-inch TV on?
The most suitable walls for mounting an 85-inch TV include solid wood studs, concrete, or brick. If you’re mounting on drywall, it’s crucial to locate the wooden studs behind the drywall, as they provide the necessary support for the weight of a large TV. Using a stud finder can help identify these studs easily, ensuring a secure and stable mount.
Avoid mounting your TV solely on drywall without securing it to studs, as this practice can lead to accidents and damage. If you can’t find studs, consider using special wall anchors designed for heavy loads. For brick or concrete walls, use appropriate mounting hardware like masonry anchors, and always ensure that the mount is firmly secured for safety.
How do I hide the cables when mounting my 85-inch TV?
Hiding cables when mounting your 85-inch TV can make your setup look cleaner and more professional. One popular method is to use cable management systems designed for this purpose. These systems can include raceways, which are plastic or metal channels that you attach to the wall to guide and conceal cables. Simply run your cables through the raceways, which can be painted to match your wall for a seamless look.
Another option is to use in-wall cable management kits, which allow you to run cables inside the wall. This method requires cutting small holes in the drywall to feed the cables from the TV to your entertainment center or outlet. Be sure to follow local building codes when using this method, and consult a professional if you’re unsure about the process, ensuring a clean and safe installation.
Can I mount my TV by myself, or do I need help?
While technically it is possible to mount an 85-inch TV by yourself, it is highly recommended to have assistance. The sheer size and weight of the TV can make it difficult to handle alone, increasing the risk of accidents or improper installation. A second person can help hold the TV in place while you secure the mount, which is crucial for achieving an accurate alignment and ensuring safety.
If you do decide to go solo, consider investing in a TV mounting strap or using a mounting template to help guide you through the process. These tools can offer additional support and ensure that your TV is secure during installation. However, enlisting the help of a friend or family member is always the safest and most effective approach.
What should I do if my wall isn’t strong enough to support the TV?
If your wall isn’t robust enough to support the weight of your 85-inch TV, you have several options to create a stable mounting solution. First, consider using wall reinforcements, such as adding additional studs or mounting a plywood board to the wall. This board can be anchored securely to the studs and will distribute the weight of the TV more evenly across a larger area.
Alternatively, if you’re unable to modify the wall or if it’s not feasible, consider investing in a heavy-duty TV stand or an entertainment center that can hold the weight of your TV. These furniture solutions can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, allowing you to display your TV without the need for wall mounting while ensuring safety and stability.
How do I ensure my TV is level after mounting it?
To ensure your 85-inch TV is level after mounting, it’s essential to utilize a level during the installation process. Before finalizing the mounting bracket, place the level on top of the TV to verify that it is perfectly horizontal. Make any necessary adjustments to the mounting bracket before tightening all screws securely, ensuring that the TV remains level once fully affixed to the wall.
After installation, give your TV a gentle push to check for any movement or tilting. If it’s not level, you may need to loosen the mounting screws and make slight adjustments. Rectifying the position post-installation can often be more challenging, so taking the time to ensure it is level during the mounting process is vital for clean and polished results.