Best 85-Inch TV Wall Mount: A Complete Guide

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85-Inch TV Wall Mount: A Complete Guide

So, you've got yourself a massive 85-inch TV, huh? Awesome! Now, the big question: how are you going to display this beauty? Sure, you could plop it on a stand, but let's be real, wall mounting is where it's at! Not only does it save space and give your room a sleek, modern look, but it also provides a safer setup, especially if you have kids or pets running around. But, mounting an 85-inch TV isn't as simple as hanging a picture frame. It requires careful planning, the right equipment, and a bit of elbow grease. Don't worry, guys, I'm here to guide you through every step of the process, from choosing the perfect mount to safely securing your TV to the wall. Let's dive in!

Why Wall Mount Your 85-Inch TV?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let's quickly recap why wall mounting is the way to go for your new 85-inch behemoth. First off, space saving is a major win. These TVs are huge, and their stands take up a considerable amount of floor space. By mounting it, you free up that space, making your room feel more open and less cluttered. Secondly, a wall-mounted TV looks incredibly stylish and modern. It instantly elevates the look of your room, giving it a clean and sophisticated vibe. Think of it as turning your living room into a home theater! Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, wall mounting enhances safety. Large TVs on stands can be unstable and pose a tipping hazard, especially for curious children or pets. Mounting it securely to the wall eliminates this risk, providing peace of mind. And finally, the optimal viewing experience. You can adjust the height and angle of your TV for the best possible viewing angle, reducing neck strain and ensuring everyone in the room gets a great view. With so many benefits, it's no wonder wall mounting is the preferred choice for large TVs.

Choosing the Right TV Wall Mount

Okay, so you're sold on wall mounting. Great! Now comes the crucial part: selecting the right mount. This isn't a one-size-fits-all situation, guys. There are several types of mounts, each with its own pros and cons. Let's break them down:

Types of TV Wall Mounts:

  • Fixed Mounts: These are the simplest and most affordable type of mount. They hold your TV flush against the wall, offering a clean and low-profile look. However, they don't offer any adjustability, so you'll need to be precise with your placement. These are ideal if you have a pre-determined viewing angle and don't need to tilt or swivel your TV.
  • Tilting Mounts: Tilting mounts allow you to tilt your TV up or down, which can be helpful for reducing glare or improving the viewing angle from different seating positions. They offer a bit more flexibility than fixed mounts but still keep the TV relatively close to the wall.
  • Full-Motion Mounts: Also known as articulating mounts, these are the most versatile option. They allow you to tilt, swivel, and extend your TV away from the wall, giving you maximum flexibility in terms of viewing angle. This is perfect for rooms where you might be watching TV from different locations or if you want to hide the TV when it's not in use.

Factors to Consider:

  • Weight Capacity: This is the most important factor. Make sure the mount you choose is rated to support the weight of your 85-inch TV. Check your TV's specifications for its weight, and choose a mount that can handle at least that much, with a little extra margin for safety.
  • VESA Compatibility: VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) is a standard that defines the mounting hole patterns on the back of TVs. Measure the distance between the mounting holes on your TV, both horizontally and vertically, and make sure the mount you choose is compatible with that VESA pattern. Most mounts will list the VESA patterns they support.
  • Wall Type: The type of wall you're mounting your TV on will also affect your choice of mount. Drywall is the most common type of wall, but it's not strong enough to support a heavy TV on its own. You'll need to mount the TV to wall studs, which are the vertical wooden beams that provide structural support. If you have concrete or brick walls, you'll need a special type of mount and hardware designed for those materials.
  • Features: Some mounts come with additional features, such as cable management systems, bubble levels, and safety locks. Consider which features are important to you and choose a mount that offers them.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Alright, you've picked out your mount. Now it's time to gather your tools and materials. Here's a comprehensive list:

  • TV Wall Mount: Obviously!
  • Drill: A power drill is essential for drilling pilot holes and driving screws.
  • Stud Finder: This will help you locate the wall studs behind your drywall. Trust me; you don't want to skip this step!
  • Level: A level is crucial for ensuring your TV is mounted straight.
  • Screwdriver Set: You'll need a variety of screwdrivers to attach the mount to the TV and the wall.
  • Pencil: For marking the wall where you'll be drilling.
  • Measuring Tape: To measure the distance between the studs and the height of the TV.
  • Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from dust and debris.
  • Gloves: To protect your hands.
  • Cable Management System: This will help you keep your cables organized and tidy.
  • Wall Anchors (if needed): If you can't mount the TV directly to the studs, you'll need wall anchors to provide additional support.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Okay, guys, let's get down to business! Here's a step-by-step guide to installing your 85-inch TV wall mount. Remember to always consult the manufacturer's instructions for your specific mount, as the steps may vary slightly.

  1. Locate the Wall Studs: Use your stud finder to locate the wall studs behind your drywall. Mark the location of the studs with a pencil. You'll need to mount the TV to at least two studs for proper support. If you can't hit two studs, consider using a wider mount or adding a piece of plywood to span the studs and provide a solid mounting surface.
  2. Attach the Mount to the Wall: Position the wall plate of the mount against the wall, aligning it with the studs you marked earlier. Use a level to ensure the plate is straight. Drill pilot holes through the mounting holes in the plate and into the studs. Then, secure the plate to the wall with lag bolts or screws. Make sure the bolts are tightened securely, but don't overtighten them, as this could damage the studs.
  3. Attach the Mounting Brackets to the TV: Attach the mounting brackets to the back of your TV using the screws that came with the mount. Make sure the brackets are securely attached and that they are aligned properly. Refer to the VESA pattern you measured earlier to ensure the brackets are in the correct position.
  4. Lift the TV and Attach It to the Wall Plate: This is where you'll likely need a friend or two to help you. 85-inch TVs are heavy and awkward to handle. Carefully lift the TV and align the mounting brackets with the wall plate. Secure the TV to the wall plate using the locking mechanisms or screws provided with the mount. Make sure the TV is securely attached and that it's not wobbly.
  5. Connect the Cables: Connect all the necessary cables to your TV, such as the power cord, HDMI cables, and any other audio or video cables. Use a cable management system to organize the cables and keep them out of sight.
  6. Adjust the TV (if necessary): If you have a tilting or full-motion mount, adjust the TV to the desired angle. Use a level to ensure the TV is still straight after making adjustments.
  7. Double-Check Everything: Before you sit back and enjoy your new wall-mounted TV, double-check all the connections and make sure everything is secure. Give the TV a gentle shake to make sure it's not wobbly. If everything looks good, you're ready to go!

Safety Tips

  • Read the Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific mount.
  • Don't Exceed Weight Capacity: Never exceed the weight capacity of the mount. This could cause the mount to fail and the TV to fall.
  • Use the Right Hardware: Use the correct type of screws and bolts for your wall type. Don't use drywall screws to mount the TV to studs, as they won't provide enough support.
  • Get Help: Don't try to lift and mount an 85-inch TV by yourself. Get help from a friend or family member.
  • Disconnect Power: Always disconnect the power cord before working on any electrical equipment.

Troubleshooting

  • Can't Find Studs: If you're having trouble finding the studs, try using a stud finder with a deeper scanning mode or consult a professional.
  • Mount Isn't Level: If the mount isn't level, loosen the screws and adjust the position of the plate until it's level. Then, retighten the screws.
  • TV Is Wobbly: If the TV is wobbly, make sure all the screws are tightened securely. If the TV is still wobbly, you may need to add additional support.
  • Cables Are Messy: Use a cable management system to organize the cables and keep them out of sight. You can use cable ties, clips, or a cable sleeve to bundle the cables together.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! A complete guide to wall mounting your 85-inch TV. It might seem daunting at first, but with careful planning, the right equipment, and a little bit of elbow grease, you can transform your living room into a home theater. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer's instructions. And if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, don't hesitate to hire a professional. Now go forth and conquer that wall!