85 Inch TV Wall Mount: A Comprehensive Guide

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85 Inch TV Wall Mount: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you've got yourself a massive 85-inch TV, huh? Awesome! Now, the big question is: how are you going to display this beast? Sure, you could set it on a stand, but let's be real – wall mounting an 85-inch TV is the way to go for a sleek, modern look. Plus, it saves space and keeps your investment safe from accidental bumps. But don't just jump in headfirst! Mounting a TV of this size requires careful planning and the right equipment. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to safely and securely mount your 85-inch TV. Let's dive in, guys!

Why Wall Mount Your 85-Inch TV?

Before we get into the how, let's quickly cover the why. Why bother wall mounting such a large TV in the first place? Well, there are several compelling reasons:

  • Space Saving: An 85-inch TV takes up a considerable amount of space on a stand. Wall mounting frees up valuable floor space, making your room feel larger and less cluttered. This is particularly beneficial in smaller living rooms or apartments where every square foot counts. Imagine all the possibilities – you could add a stylish coffee table, a cozy reading nook, or even just enjoy the extra breathing room!
  • Enhanced Viewing Experience: Wall mounting allows you to position your TV at the perfect viewing height. No more craning your neck or slouching on the couch! You can customize the height and angle to suit your specific seating arrangement, ensuring optimal comfort and picture quality. Plus, a properly mounted TV eliminates glare and reflections, further enhancing your viewing pleasure. Think movie nights with perfectly positioned screens for the ultimate cinematic experience.
  • Modern Aesthetic: Let's face it, a wall-mounted TV looks incredibly sleek and modern. It creates a clean, minimalist aesthetic that elevates the overall look of your living room. It hides unsightly cables and eliminates the need for bulky TV stands, resulting in a streamlined and sophisticated appearance. Your living room will instantly transform into a stylish entertainment hub that you'll be proud to show off.
  • Safety and Security: An 85-inch TV is a significant investment, and you want to protect it from accidental damage. Wall mounting keeps your TV safely out of reach of children and pets, preventing it from being knocked over or damaged. This is especially important if you have young children who love to explore or playful pets who might mistake your TV for a climbing toy. A secure wall mount provides peace of mind, knowing that your valuable TV is safe and sound.

Choosing the Right Wall Mount

Okay, you're sold on the idea of wall mounting. Now comes the crucial step: selecting the right wall mount. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your 85-inch TV. Here's what you need to consider:

  • Weight Capacity: This is the most important factor. Check the weight of your TV (it's usually listed in the product specifications) and make sure the wall mount is rated to support that weight and then some. It's always better to err on the side of caution and choose a mount with a higher weight capacity than you actually need. This ensures that the mount can safely and securely hold your TV without straining or failing over time. Imagine the disaster if your TV came crashing down because the mount couldn't handle the weight! Always double-check the weight capacity and choose a mount that exceeds your TV's weight by a comfortable margin. Safety first, guys!
  • VESA Compatibility: VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) is a standard that defines the mounting hole pattern on the back of TVs. Check your TV's VESA specification (again, it's in the product specs) and make sure the wall mount is compatible. Most wall mounts support a range of VESA patterns, but it's always best to double-check to avoid any surprises. The VESA pattern is usually expressed in millimeters, such as 400x400mm or 600x400mm. Make sure the wall mount you choose has the same VESA pattern as your TV. If you're unsure, consult your TV's manual or the manufacturer's website.
  • Mount Type: There are several types of wall mounts, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
    • Fixed Mounts: These are the simplest and most affordable type of mount. They hold the TV flush against the wall, providing a clean and minimalist look. However, they offer no adjustability, so you'll need to be precise with your initial placement. Fixed mounts are ideal for situations where you don't need to adjust the viewing angle or access the back of the TV frequently. They are also a good choice if you want to minimize the distance between the TV and the wall.
    • Tilting Mounts: These mounts allow you to tilt the TV up or down, which can be helpful for reducing glare or improving the viewing angle from different seating positions. Tilting mounts are a good compromise between fixed mounts and full-motion mounts. They offer some adjustability without being as bulky or expensive as full-motion mounts. They are particularly useful if you have high ceilings or need to angle the TV down towards the viewers.
    • Full-Motion Mounts: Also known as articulating mounts, these mounts allow you to extend, swivel, and tilt the TV in virtually any direction. This provides maximum flexibility for adjusting the viewing angle and accessing the back of the TV for cable management. Full-motion mounts are ideal for situations where you need to view the TV from multiple locations or want to easily access the connections on the back of the TV. However, they are typically more expensive and require more installation expertise.
  • Construction Quality: Look for a wall mount made from sturdy materials like heavy-gauge steel. Avoid flimsy mounts that look like they might bend or break under the weight of your TV. Read online reviews and check the manufacturer's reputation to ensure you're getting a quality product that will last. A well-constructed wall mount will provide years of reliable support and protect your investment. Don't skimp on quality when it comes to something as important as supporting your 85-inch TV.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you start the installation process, gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will make the job much easier and prevent frustrating delays. Here's a checklist:

  • Wall Mount: Obviously! Make sure it's the right type and weight capacity for your TV.
  • Stud Finder: This is essential for locating the wall studs, which are the wooden beams that provide the necessary support for the TV. Don't even think about mounting your TV without using a stud finder! It's the key to a secure and stable installation. There are several types of stud finders available, from basic magnetic stud finders to more advanced electronic stud finders. Choose one that suits your needs and budget. Electronic stud finders are generally more accurate and can detect studs through thicker walls.
  • Drill: You'll need a drill to make pilot holes for the mounting screws. Make sure you have a drill bit that's appropriate for the type of wall you're drilling into (e.g., wood, drywall, concrete).
  • Level: This is crucial for ensuring that your TV is mounted straight. A level will help you align the wall mount properly and prevent your TV from looking crooked.
  • Screwdriver: You'll need a screwdriver to tighten the mounting screws. A Phillips head screwdriver is typically required.
  • Socket Wrench: A socket wrench can be helpful for tightening lag bolts, which are often used to secure the wall mount to the wall studs.
  • Measuring Tape: You'll need a measuring tape to determine the correct height and position for the wall mount.
  • Pencil: Use a pencil to mark the location of the wall studs and the mounting holes.
  • Cable Management Supplies: Consider using cable ties, cable sleeves, or wall plates to hide and organize your TV cables. This will create a cleaner and more professional look.
  • Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from dust and debris while drilling.
  • Gloves: Protect your hands from splinters and other potential hazards.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Alright, let's get down to business! Here's a step-by-step guide to mounting your 85-inch TV:

  1. Locate the Wall Studs: Use your stud finder to locate the wall studs in the desired mounting area. Mark the location of the studs with a pencil. It's crucial to mount the TV to the studs, as drywall alone cannot support the weight of an 85-inch TV. If you're unsure about the location of the studs, consult a professional installer.
  2. Attach the Wall Plate: Align the wall plate with the marked stud locations and use a level to ensure it's straight. Mark the mounting holes with a pencil and drill pilot holes. Then, attach the wall plate to the wall using the appropriate screws or lag bolts. Make sure the wall plate is securely fastened to the wall studs. This is the foundation of your TV mount, so take your time and do it right.
  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 wall mount. Make sure the brackets are securely fastened and aligned properly. Refer to the wall mount's instructions for the correct bracket placement.
  4. Lift and Mount the TV: With the help of a friend or two (an 85-inch TV is heavy!), carefully lift the TV and align the mounting brackets with the wall plate. Secure the TV to the wall plate using the locking mechanism or screws provided with the wall mount. Double-check that the TV is securely attached to the wall plate before releasing your grip.
  5. Connect the Cables: Connect all the necessary cables to your TV, such as the power cord, HDMI cables, and audio cables. Use cable ties or cable sleeves to organize and hide the cables. This will create a cleaner and more professional look.
  6. Adjust the Viewing Angle: If you have a tilting or full-motion mount, adjust the viewing angle to your liking. Make sure the TV is level and that the picture is clear from your desired viewing position.
  7. Clean Up: Dispose of any packaging materials and clean up any dust or debris created during the installation process.

Important Safety Tips

  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions: Read and understand the instructions that came with your wall mount and TV before you start the installation process.
  • Use the right tools: Using the wrong tools can damage your TV or wall mount. Make sure you have the correct tools for the job.
  • Get help if needed: Mounting an 85-inch TV is a two-person job. Don't try to do it alone.
  • If you're not comfortable with the installation process, hire a professional installer: A professional installer has the experience and expertise to safely and securely mount your TV. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

Wall mounting your 85-inch TV is a great way to save space, enhance your viewing experience, and add a touch of modern style to your home. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can safely and securely mount your TV and enjoy years of entertainment. So go ahead, grab your tools, and get ready to transform your living room into a cinematic paradise! Just remember to take your time, be careful, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Happy mounting, guys!