Mounting a television on the wall can seem like a simple DIY task. However, installing a TV securely and correctly involves more than drilling holes and attaching a bracket. Wall construction, TV weight, bracket compatibility, viewing height and cable management all need to be considered before installation.
A mistake during installation can damage the wall, affect the stability of the television or create additional repair costs. This is why many homeowners choose professional TV wall mounting when they want a secure and properly finished installation.
Why DIY TV Mounting Can Be More Difficult Than It Looks?
A TV wall mount needs to support the television securely while remaining firmly attached to the wall. The correct installation method depends on the type of wall, the TV’s weight and the mounting hardware being used.
Common wall types include:
- Plasterboard
- Brick
- Concrete
- Timber-stud walls
Each wall requires an appropriate fixing method. Understanding the wall type is an important part of choosing the correct mounting approach. Read this guide to wall types in Australia to learn what you can and cannot mount safely.
Before mounting a TV, it is also important to check the television’s VESA mounting pattern and weight against the specifications of the bracket.
Common TV Mounting Mistakes
Choosing the Wrong Wall Fixings
One of the most important parts of TV installation is selecting suitable fixings for the wall. Using the wrong screws or anchors can result in an unstable mount or damage to the wall.
Mounting the TV in the Wrong Position
The television should be positioned according to the room layout and normal viewing position. Mounting it too high can make viewing uncomfortable, while positioning it too low can interfere with furniture or other equipment.
The location should also account for:
- Viewing distance
- Seating position
- Natural light
- Glare
- Furniture
- Soundbar placement
Using an Incompatible TV Bracket
TV brackets are available in different designs, including fixed, tilt and full-motion models. The correct option depends on the TV and how you want to use it.
Before installation, check:
- TV size
- TV weight
- VESA pattern
- Bracket weight capacity
- Required viewing angle
Damaging the Wall
Incorrect drilling can create unnecessary holes or damage plasterboard, brickwork or other surfaces. If the mounting position is wrong, additional holes may also be required to reposition the bracket.
Repairing and repainting the wall can quickly turn a low-cost DIY project into a more expensive job.
Poor Cable Management Can Affect the Finished Result
A wall-mounted TV should not only be secure but also look clean and organised.
Loose HDMI, antenna, Ethernet and other connection cables can make the installation appear unfinished. Poor cable routing can also make future access to devices more difficult.
Cable management should therefore be considered before mounting the TV. The position of power outlets and connected devices should also be considered when planning the installation.
For concealed electrical work, use an appropriately qualified professional and follow applicable Australian requirements.
Why DIY TV Mounting Can Cost More in the Long Run?
The main attraction of DIY TV mounting is usually the opportunity to save on installation costs. However, the initial saving does not always represent the final cost.
For example:
DIY installation → incorrect fixing → wall damage → replacement materials → repair → professional reinstallation
A homeowner may initially save on labour but later spend money on:
- Replacement mounting hardware
- Wall repairs
- Paint and finishing materials
- A new bracket
- Professional reinstallation
- Additional installation time
For more information, read our guide on professional TV wall mounting over DIY.
There is also the risk of damaging an expensive television during an incorrect installation. This is why comparing only the initial installation price can be misleading. The more useful comparison is the total cost of completing the job correctly.
When Professional TV Wall Mounting Is a Better Option?
Professional installation can be a practical choice when you have a large or heavy television, an unfamiliar wall type or a complicated entertainment setup.
It can also be useful when you want:
- Accurate TV positioning
- A level installation
- Suitable wall fixings
- Clean cable management
- Correct bracket installation
- Soundbar positioning
- A finished home entertainment setup
A professional installer can assess the installation requirements before drilling and help prevent mistakes that may otherwise require costly corrections.
If you want the installation completed with the appropriate equipment and mounting approach, you can consider a professional TV wall mounting service for a secure and properly finished installation.
How to Avoid Costly TV Mounting Problems?
Whether you choose DIY installation or professional assistance, several checks should be completed before mounting the television.
Check the Wall
Identify whether the wall is plasterboard, brick, concrete or another construction type and determine the appropriate fixing method.
Check the TV
Confirm the television’s weight and VESA mounting specifications.
Check the Bracket
Make sure the bracket is designed to support the TV and is suitable for the intended installation position.
Plan the Position
Measure the wall and consider viewing height, seating position, furniture and available connections.
Plan Cable Management
Determine where cables will run before securing the TV to the wall.
Check Everything Before Drilling
Taking measurements and checking compatibility before drilling can prevent unnecessary holes and repositioning.
Is Professional TV Wall Mounting Worth the Cost?
The answer depends on the installation.
For a straightforward setup, someone with the right knowledge, tools and suitable wall conditions may be able to complete the installation themselves. However, when the wall construction is uncertain, the TV is large or expensive, or the installation requires precise positioning and cable management, professional assistance can be worthwhile.
The objective is not simply to put the TV on the wall. It is to create a secure, level, correctly positioned and neat installation.
Conclusion
Mounting a TV without professional assistance may appear to save money, but an incorrect bracket, unsuitable wall fixing, damaged wall or poor positioning can quickly increase the overall cost. What starts as a simple DIY project can become a repair and reinstallation job.
Taking the time to assess the wall, TV, bracket, viewing position and cable requirements can prevent many common problems. For homeowners who are uncertain about any part of the installation, professional TV wall mounting can provide a more reliable way to achieve a secure and clean result without unnecessary rework.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it cheaper to mount a TV yourself?
DIY TV mounting can reduce the initial labour cost, but mistakes involving wall fixings, brackets or positioning can lead to repair and reinstallation expenses.
2. What is the most common TV mounting mistake?
Using unsuitable wall fixings is a common problem. The fixing method should match the wall construction and the weight requirements of the TV and bracket.
3. Can DIY TV mounting damage the wall?
Yes. Incorrect drilling, unsuitable anchors or mounting in the wrong location can damage plasterboard, brick or other wall surfaces.
4. How do I choose the right TV wall mount?
Check your TV’s weight, screen size and VESA mounting pattern. The bracket should also have an appropriate weight capacity and suit the viewing position you require.
5. Is professional TV wall mounting worth it?
Professional TV wall mounting can be worthwhile when the TV is large or expensive, the wall type is uncertain, precise positioning is required or you need clean cable management and a finished installation.