In our previous blog post, we talked about the three main categories of mount types – fixed, tilting, and full motion. Once you’ve decided which TV wall mount setup best suits your needs, you’ll need to consider a few technical details to ensure your TV and mount are compatible.
Weight and Size
TV mounts have a specific weight capacity rating that must be adhered to for safety reasons. You’ll want to make sure your TV weighs less than the mount’s weight capacity limit.
To find out how much your TV weighs, check the box or the manual. If you have neither handy, Google the model number that is on the back of your TV and look for the specs on the manufacturer’s website.
You’ll also want to make sure your TV is large enough to cover the TV mount’s mounting arms and wall plate. Check the TV mount’s box to make sure your TV is larger than the minimum TV size specified.
VESA
Your TV most likely features standardized mounting holes, arranged in what is referred to as a “VESA pattern”. The VESA pattern (or size) indicates the spacing of the four mounting holes on the back of your TV. Most TV mounts accommodate a range of standardized mounting patterns, but you’ll want to make sure to find one that precisely matches your TV.
Wall Studs
TV mounts are typically installed into wood studs, concrete or brick. If you’re mounting into wood studs, you’ll either buy a single stud mount or a dual stud mount depending on the position of your studs and how many you want to install into.
Most homes feature 16″ stud spacing, but some studs can be 24″ apart. Investing in a stud finder will help you figure out where your studs are located in your wall.
Your wall stud spacing will determine which mount you can purchase. Some mounts are limited to 16” stud spacing, while other mounts feature a wider wall plate that accommodates both 16” and 24” stud spacing.
Take a step back and look to see where you want your TV to be centered on the wall. Are your studs nicely centered where you want your TV to be located? If not, choose a mount with a large enough wall plate to offset the stud placement.
Some mounts, like the PMX Series, offer adjustable offset, allowing you to easily achieve a centered setup regardless of stud spacing.
Keeping these things in mind, you can now confidently find the right mount for the job.
We’d love to see your mount setup in your entertainment area! Send us photos of your setup on our Facebook page.
