Mount TV on Plasterboard? 5 Easy Steps You NEED to Know!

Many homeowners find themselves needing to understand how to fit tv to plasterboard wall, especially when optimizing their living spaces. The process requires selecting the correct wall mount, understanding the load-bearing capacity of plasterboard itself. Using the correct tools and fixing methods, and being aware of how weight distribution affects overall stability are crucial. This guide will provide five easy steps you need to know!

Image taken from the YouTube channel Sealey Tools , from the video titled How to Mount a TV to a Plasterboard Hollow Wall Without Using Studs .

How to Fit TV to Plasterboard Wall: 5 Easy Steps You NEED to Know!

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of safely and effectively mounting your TV to a plasterboard wall. We'll break down the process into five easily manageable steps, covering everything from assessing your wall and choosing the right equipment to the actual mounting procedure.

Step 1: Assessing Your Plasterboard Wall and TV Weight

Before you even think about drilling, you need to understand the limitations of your plasterboard and the weight of your TV. Plasterboard alone is not strong enough to support most TVs without additional support.

Identifying Your Wall Type

• Visual Inspection: Gently tap on the wall. A hollow sound usually indicates plasterboard. Solid walls like brick or concrete will sound much more solid.
• Check for Studs: Use a stud finder to locate wooden or metal studs behind the plasterboard. These are crucial for a secure mount.
• Consider Double Plasterboard: Some walls have two layers of plasterboard for soundproofing. This will generally provide a bit more support but still requires caution.

Determining Your TV Weight

• Check the Manual: The easiest way to find the weight is to consult your TV's user manual.
• Look at the TV's Back: The weight is often printed on a sticker on the back of the TV.
• Online Search: If you can't find it on the TV or in the manual, search online for your TV model and "weight".

Weight Considerations

Most standard plasterboard fixings are designed for light loads. You'll need to consider:

Step 2: Choosing the Right Mounting Bracket and Fixings

Selecting the correct bracket and fixings is paramount for a safe and secure installation.

Bracket Types

• Fixed Brackets: Position the TV close to the wall. Ideal if you don’t need to adjust the viewing angle.
• Tilting Brackets: Allow you to tilt the TV up or down, reducing glare.
• Full-Motion Brackets: Extend, swivel, and tilt the TV, providing maximum viewing flexibility.

Fixings Options

• Plasterboard Fixings: Designed specifically for plasterboard, these include:
  • Self-Drilling Anchors: Easy to install, but generally for lighter loads.
  • Expanding Plasterboard Anchors: Provide a more secure hold, but require a pre-drilled hole.
  • Toggle Bolts: Offer the strongest hold on plasterboard, expanding behind the wall, but require a larger hole.
• Stud Fixings: These are screws designed to securely attach the bracket to wooden or metal studs.
  • Wood Screws: Used for mounting to wooden studs. Ensure they are long enough to penetrate the stud deeply (at least 50mm).
  • Metal Screws: Used for mounting to metal studs. Self-tapping screws are often the best option.

Important: Always choose fixings that are rated to support the weight of your TV plus the weight of the bracket, with a safety margin.

Step 3: Locating Wall Studs and Marking the Mounting Points

Accurate placement is crucial for a secure and aesthetically pleasing installation.

Using a Stud Finder

• Calibration: Most stud finders require calibration before use. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Scanning: Slowly move the stud finder horizontally across the wall.
• Marking: When the stud finder detects a stud, mark its edges with a pencil. The center of the stud is the ideal mounting point.
• Verification: Double-check the stud location by driving a small nail into the marked area. If you hit solid wood or metal, you've found a stud.

Marking the Mounting Points

• Bracket Placement: Hold the mounting bracket against the wall, aligning it with the studs you've located.
• Leveling: Use a level to ensure the bracket is perfectly horizontal.
• Marking Hole Locations: Mark the hole locations on the wall through the bracket's mounting holes. Ensure that at least two of the mounting points are securely on studs.

Step 4: Drilling Holes and Attaching the Bracket

Carefully drilling the holes and securely attaching the bracket is a critical step.

Drilling the Holes

• Pilot Holes: Start with small pilot holes to guide the larger drill bit and prevent the plasterboard from cracking.
• Correct Drill Bit Size: Use a drill bit size appropriate for the fixings you're using. Consult the fixing manufacturer's recommendations.
• Straight Drilling: Drill straight into the wall, keeping the drill bit perpendicular to the surface.
• Dust Removal: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris from the holes.

Attaching the Bracket

• Aligning: Align the bracket with the drilled holes.
• Inserting Fixings: Insert the appropriate fixings through the bracket and into the holes.
• Tightening: Tighten the fixings securely, but avoid over-tightening, especially with plasterboard fixings, as this can damage the plasterboard.
• Stud Fixings: If mounting to studs, ensure the screws are driven deep into the stud for maximum hold.

Step 5: Mounting the TV to the Bracket

The final step involves attaching the TV to the mounted bracket.

Attaching the TV Mounting Plates

• Correct Size: Most TV mounting brackets come with a variety of screw sizes. Choose the ones that fit your TV's mounting holes.
• Secure Attachment: Attach the TV mounting plates to the back of the TV, ensuring they are securely fastened.

Lifting and Securing the TV

• Assistance: This step usually requires two people, especially for larger TVs.
• Careful Lifting: Carefully lift the TV and align the mounting plates with the bracket on the wall.
• Locking Mechanism: Most brackets have a locking mechanism to secure the TV to the bracket. Engage this mechanism to prevent the TV from accidentally falling.
• Final Check: Ensure the TV is level and securely attached to the bracket before releasing it.

Video: Mount TV on Plasterboard? 5 Easy Steps You NEED to Know!

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So there you have it – a straightforward way to mount your TV on plasterboard. Remember to take your time, double-check your measurements, and you'll be enjoying your favorite shows on your wall in no time. Good luck with how to fit tv to plasterboard wall!