What are TV brackets?
TV brackets are wall-mounted supports designed to hold your television securely in place, freeing up floor space and offering a cleaner setup. There are TV brackets available in various types and sizes, offering different levels of movement and flexibility to create your desired setup. Choosing the right bracket is essential, ensuring safe mounting and the best viewing experience for your room layout.
Types of TV brackets
There are various TV bracket types available, each designed to suit different needs and TV models. Each type offers unique benefits depending on your room layout, TV size, and personal preference. This guide will discuss the most common bracket types and their features, helping you to find the perfect option to meet your needs.
Fixed TV brackets
Fixed TV brackets are a sleek and modern choice, holding TVs flat against the wall and providing a slim and low-profile finish. Ideal for rooms where the viewing angle is straight on and space-saving is a priority, fixed TV brackets are easy to install and offer an affordable solution. Fixed TV brackets don’t allow for movement or tilt once installed, so if you have an open-plan living space, you may be better suited to other options.
Tilted TV brackets
Tilted TV brackets allow the TV to angle slightly up or down, reducing glare and improving visibility in bright rooms. They are ideal for when the TV is mounted higher than eye level, such as above a fireplace or on a bedroom wall. This TV bracket type offers a sleek and flexible way to improve viewing comfort while saving you space in smaller rooms.
Full Motion TV brackets
Full motion TV brackets are the most flexible option, allowing you to swivel, tilt, and extend the TV from the wall. Ideal for corner installations or multi-angle viewing in large spaces, they allow you to adjust the screen to get the best view. While they are bulkier than other TV bracket types, full-motion TV brackets offer more versatility to suit a range of spaces.
Ceiling TV brackets
Ceiling TV brackets are an ideal solution for spaces where wall mounting isn’t possible, suspending the TV from above and often featuring tilting and swivelling functions. These brackets are a practical choice in areas where floor or wall space is limited. While there is often more to the installation process, they are a modern and space-saving option for kitchens to offices, allowing you to position your screen exactly where you need it.
Corner TV brackets
Corner TV brackets are designed to mount your TV across two walls, making use of corner spaces to achieve a clean and modern look. Ideal for compact rooms or unique layouts, they usually include full-motion arms to angle the screen exactly where you need it, achieving a better viewing angle.
How to choose the right TV bracket
Choosing the right TV bracket involves more than just matching it to your screen size; there are a number of factors that should be considered to ensure you make the right choice.
Check your TV’s VESA size
Before choosing a TV bracket, you need to know your TV’s VESA size. This is a standard measurement for the mounting holes on the back of your TV, and it’s essential to match this with your TV bracket to ensure a secure and stable fit. You can usually find the VESA dimensions in your TV manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Match the bracket to your TV size and weight
Matching the TV bracket to your TV size and weight is essential for ensuring the TV fits securely and safely into the bracket. Each TV bracket has a maximum screen size and weight limit it can support. If you use an undersized or lightweight bracket, you could risk damaging your wall or TV. Make sure that you always double-check your screen’s specifications before buying a bracket.
Consider your viewing angle
Considering where you sit while watching TV will enable you to pick the best suited bracket for your needs. If your screen is mounted high or off to the side, a tilting or full-motion bracket may offer a better viewing experience. Factors such as glare, neck comfort, and screen visibility should be taken into account when making your decision.
Think about the wall type and available space
Your wall type and available space should be considered to ensure your setup matches your wall’s strength and layout. Brick, plasterboard, and stud walls all require different fixings for secure mounting of your TV and TV bracket. Make sure you consider how much space you have, as some provide additional movement and flexibility.
Cable access and port clearance
Cable access and port clearance are essential when choosing a TV bracket. Some options can block access to HDMI, power, or audio ports if they sit too close to the wall. Therefore, choosing a tilting or full-motion bracket could make cable management easier.
Common TV bracket installation issues to avoid
While installing a TV bracket can seem like a straightforward task, there are common mistakes that occur that can lead to poor positioning, damage, or safety issues. By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure you select the right TV bracket for your space while achieving a secure and hassle-free setup.
Over-tightening screws
Over-tightening screws can strip the TV bracket holes, crack the wall surface, or damage the bracket itself. You must tighten each screw until its secure, so that the bracket is properly supported, while making sure you don’t force it.
Not using a spirit level
A wonky TV is one of the most common yet easily avoidable installation mistakes. Using a spirit level before drilling is essential to prevent this issue. This simple step will ensure the TV bracket is perfectly straight, resulting in a functional and sleek addition to your space.
Incorrect measurements and hole placement
Incorrect measurements can lead to a bracket being off-centre or at the wrong height. Make sure you measure your TV’s mounting holes and your ideal screen centre before making drill points so that the bracket is aligned with your viewing preference.
Discover TV brackets at IronmongeryDirect
This guide has helped you to find the perfect bracket to support your TV, exploring which is best for different TV types and sizes, as well as the issues to avoid during the installation process. Find the perfect bracket for your space with our wide range of TV brackets from IronmongeryDirect.
FAQs
Can I mount any TV to any bracket?
No, you cannot mount any TV to any bracket, as not all TVs are compatible with every bracket. You’ll need to match the bracket according to your TV’s size, weight, and VESA mounting pattern to ensure a safe and secure fit.
What is a VESA mount?
A VESA mount is the standard pattern of holes on the back of a TV used for bracket attachment. You need to match your TV’s VESA size with the bracket to make sure you have the correct alignment and a stable installation.
Will a TV bracket damage my wall?
When installed properly and using the right fixings for your wall type, a TV bracket shouldn’t cause any damage to a wall. Avoid over-tightening screws and check the wall’s condition before mounting to prevent damage, creating a secure and long-lasting installation.
How high should I mount my TV?
Your TV should be mounted with the centre of the screen at eye level when seated, usually between 42-48 inches from the floor. This helps to reduce neck strain and offers the most comfortable viewing experience. If this isn’t possible, there are various TV bracket types, including tilted options, to allow you to fit your space and achieve the preferred viewing level.
Are TV brackets universal?
While many TV brackets are designed to be universal, you should always double-check compatibility to ensure a smooth installation. Make sure the bracket supports your TV’s weight, size, and VESA measurements for a safe and secure fit.
How do I know if my TV bracket is strong enough?
Checking the weight capacity of the TV bracket before purchasing will enable you to know if your bracket is strong enough. It’s important to ensure it can support your TV’s weight along with any additional accessories, as using an under-rated bracket can risk damage to your TV and wall.