As we continue to embrace the era of sleek, flat-screen TVs and online content streaming, the trend of wall-mounted televisions is on the rise. They not only provide a modern, minimalist aesthetic but also free up valuable floor space.
However, a common challenge that may disrupt this seamless look is a crooked wall-mounted TV. This article will guide you through the steps to fix this issue, ensuring your TV viewing experience is both visually pleasing and comfortable.
The Rising Popularity of Wall-Mounted TVs
Wall-mounted TVs have become an integral part of contemporary interior design. They provide an immersive viewing experience and lend a touch of elegance to any room. Their popularity has surged due to the evolving TV technology and the growth of on-demand streaming platforms. But for the best viewing experience, ensuring that your TV is perfectly mounted is crucial. Learn more about the rise of wall-mounted TVs here.
Why a Straight Wall-Mounted TV is Crucial
A crooked wall-mounted TV can cause eye strain and affect your viewing experience. Moreover, it detracts from the aesthetic appeal of your room and might even pose a safety hazard if it’s not mounted securely. Therefore, maintaining a straight and stable TV mount is crucial.
Identifying a Crooked Wall-Mounted TV
4.1 Visual Cues
Spotting a crooked TV is often as simple as relying on your visual judgment. If the TV seems off-balance or not parallel with other elements in the room, it’s likely crooked.
4.2 Use of a Level
For a more accurate assessment, use a level. Place it on top of the TV and check if the bubble is centered. If not, your TV needs adjustment.
How to Fix a Crooked Wall-Mounted TV: A Step-by-Step Guide
5.1 Inspect the Mounting Bracket
Begin by inspecting the mounting bracket. This component can shift over time, causing the TV to tilt.
5.2 Tighten Loose Screws
Loose screws can lead to a crooked TV. Using a screwdriver, ensure all screws are secure.
5.3 Adjust the Bracket Position
If the bracket is off-center, loosen the screws, adjust the position, and then tighten them back up.
5.4 Check with a Level
Place the level on the TV again to check if it’s straight. Make adjustments as needed until the bubble is centered.
5.5 Adjust the TV Tilt
Loosen the screws holding the mounting bracket to the TV and adjust the tilt as needed. Once it’s straight, tighten the screws again.
Utilizing Laser Level for Precision
For those aiming for absolute precision, a laser level can be a great tool. This device projects a straight line onto the wall, providing a guide for positioning your TV. Adjust the TV placement until it aligns with the laser level’s line.
Checking the Wall Itself
Sometimes, the issue lies not with the TV or its bracket but with the wall itself. If the wall is not perfectly level, it can cause your TV to appear crooked. Use a level to check the wall’s straightness. If you find the wall is indeed uneven, you’ll need to compensate for this when mounting your TV.
Tools You Need For A DIY Wall Mounting Project At Home
Mounting a TV on the wall can be a satisfying DIY project. It not only saves you the cost of professional installation but also allows you the freedom to position your TV just the way you like it. However, to ensure a safe and proper installation, you’ll need a few essential tools.
Stud Finder
A stud finder is crucial when installing a TV wall mount. It helps you locate the studs, or the wooden beams behind your wall, which serve as sturdy anchor points for your mount. Securing your mount into drywall alone is risky and can lead to your TV falling.
Power Drill and Drill Bits
A power drill makes the process of drilling holes into the wall much easier and quicker. You’ll also need drill bits appropriate for your wall type. The size and type of the drill bit will depend on the screws and wall anchors you’re using.
Level
As discussed earlier, a level is crucial to ensure your TV is mounted straight. Laser levels are useful for a precise alignment, but a standard bubble level can work just as well in most cases.
Screwdrivers (Cross-Head and Flat-Head)
You’ll need both cross-head (also known as Phillips) and flat-head screwdrivers. These will be used for various tasks such as securing the mounting bracket to the TV, adjusting the tilt, and tightening any loose screws.
Socket Wrench
A socket wrench can make tightening and loosening nuts and bolts easier. It’s particularly useful if your TV mount has bolt-based fasteners.
Stone Drill Bits (Size 5-10 mm) or 4-mm Wood Drill Bit
The type and size of drill bit you’ll need depend on the material of your wall. If you’re drilling into stone or masonry, you’ll need stone drill bits typically between 5-10 mm. If you’re drilling into wooden studs, a 4-mm wood drill bit should suffice.
Safety Goggles
Safety should always be your priority when undertaking a DIY project. Dust and debris can fly when drilling into the wall, so it’s important to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.
Equipped with these tools, you’re ready to take on the task of mounting your TV to the wall. Remember, the process requires careful attention to detail, but with the right preparation and tools, you’ll create a secure and visually pleasing setup for your television.
How to Compensate for an Uneven Wall
To compensate for an uneven wall, you may need to adjust the mounting bracket itself. Depending on the type of bracket you have, this might involve adjusting individual screws or the bracket’s tilt mechanism. Alternatively, you might need to add spacers at the correct points between the wall and the bracket.
Preventing Future Crookedness
Prevention is always better than cure. To avoid future issues, ensure the mount is secure when initially installing the TV. Regularly check for signs of movement or loose screws. Correcting small shifts promptly can prevent the TV from becoming significantly crooked over time.
Professional Help: When to Consider It
There are certain scenarios when reaching out to a professional for help with a crooked wall-mounted TV is the best route. These instances might include:
Persistent Crookedness Despite Efforts
If you’ve followed the above-mentioned steps meticulously but your TV remains crooked, it might be time to seek professional help. There could be factors at play that are not immediately apparent to the untrained eye.
Overly Complex Mounting Systems
Some TV mounting systems are inherently complex, particularly those designed for larger TVs or those with articulating arms. If you’re dealing with a sophisticated mounting system and are unsure about making adjustments, a professional can ensure it’s handled correctly.
Risk of Damage or Injury
Mounting a TV involves some risk, especially with larger, heavier models. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or unsure, it’s safer to stop and call a professional. They have the proper training and equipment to handle these tasks safely.
Time Constraints
If you’re pressed for time, the process of adjusting a crooked wall-mounted TV can be frustrating. In such cases, hiring a professional can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
Guarantee of Quality
Professional installers often offer guarantees for their work. This means that if the TV becomes crooked again within a certain period, they will come back to fix it without charging additional fees.
Overall, while rectifying a crooked wall-mounted TV can often be a DIY job, there are circumstances where professional help is beneficial. Remember, the aim is not just to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space but also to ensure a safe, secure, and optimal TV viewing experience. So, if in doubt, do not hesitate to call in the experts.
While these tips can guide you in fixing a crooked TV, there are instances when professional help might be necessary. If you’ve tried these suggestions and the TV remains crooked, or if the task seems too daunting, consider calling a professional. They have the expertise to correctly mount your TV, saving you from potential hazards and ensuring an optimal viewing experience.
Conclusion
A crooked wall-mounted TV can be an eyesore and affect your viewing experience. However, by following these steps, you can easily fix the issue and ensure your wall-mounted TV complements your room’s aesthetics and provides an enjoyable viewing experience. For more tips on managing your wall-mounted TV, visit our website.
