Mounting your television on the wall can be a terrific space-saver and adds a stylish, modern touch to any room. However, it can be quite a nuisance when your wall-mounted TV ends up crooked. The good news is that it’s a fixable problem. This guide will walk you through how to straighten a crooked wall-mounted TV.
Understanding the Importance of a Properly Mounted TV
Safety Concerns
A crooked TV not only ruins the aesthetics of your room but can also pose safety risks. If it’s not mounted correctly, the TV could potentially fall, leading to damage or injury.
Aesthetic Considerations
A perfectly aligned TV is essential for maintaining the visual harmony of your space. A crooked TV can be a distracting eyesore.
Viewing Experience
A crooked TV can impact your viewing experience. It can cause discomfort and even strain to your eyes and neck.
Common Causes of a Crooked Wall-Mounted TV
Incorrect Installation
Improper installation is the most common reason for a crooked TV. It’s crucial to ensure the mounting bracket is correctly installed.
Uneven Wall Surface
Sometimes, the wall itself might be the culprit. An uneven wall surface can result in a crooked TV.
Loose Mounting Hardware
Over time, the screws and bolts holding the TV can become loose, causing the TV to tilt.
Getting Started: Tools You’ll Need
Screwdriver
A screwdriver is essential for adjusting the screws on the mounting bracket.
Level
A level will help you determine if the TV is horizontally aligned.
Tape Measure
A tape measure can assist in positioning the TV accurately during adjustments.
Step-by-Step Guide to Straightening a Crooked Wall-Mounted TV
Checking the Mounting Bracket
Examine the mounting bracket. If it has shifted or any screws are loose, it might be the reason for the tilt.
Using a Level
Place the level on top of the TV. If the bubble isn’t centered, the TV isn’t level.
Adjusting the Tilt
If your TV is tilted, adjust the tilt by loosening the screws on the back of the TV that hold the mounting bracket.
Employing a Laser Level
A laser level can ensure your TV is perfectly straight. It projects a line onto the wall, indicating where the TV should be.
Tips for Adjusting the Wall Mount Bracket
Loosening the Screws
Loosen the screws slightly to adjust your swing arm positioning accordingly.
Move the Bracket
After loosening the screws, adjust the bracket to the desired position. Use the level to ensure it’s straight.
Tighten the Screws
Once the bracket is correctly positioned, tighten the screws to secure the TV.
Dealing with an Uneven Wall
Identifying the Problem
If the TV remains crooked despite adjustments to the bracket, it’s worth checking whether the wall is level. Use a level to identify any unevenness.
Solutions to Compensate for the Uneven Wall
If you’ve determined the wall is uneven, you might need to adjust the mounting bracket to compensate. This could involve adding spacers to the bracket or installing a full-motion mount that allows greater flexibility.
Preventing a Crooked TV in the Future
Proper Initial Installation
A correctly installed TV is less likely to become crooked over time. If you’re unsure about installing it yourself, consider hiring a professional.
Regular Maintenance
Regularly check your TV to ensure it remains level and secure. Tighten any loose screws and adjust as necessary.
Using Quality Mounting Equipment
Invest in a high-quality mount to ensure your TV stays secure and level. Cheaper mounts may not hold up as well over time.
Conclusion
A crooked wall-mounted TV can be frustrating, but it’s an issue that can be rectified with a little time and the right tools.
By understanding the causes and knowing how to address them, you can ensure your TV is straight and secure, enhancing both safety and your viewing experience. For more tips and tricks on dealing with wall-mounted TVs, check out our other articles here, here, and here.
