Wall mounting a Smart TV creates a clean, modern look and can free up valuable floor space in your living room. However, mounting a television safely requires careful planning and proper technique. A poorly mounted TV can fall and cause injury or property damage, so it's essential to do the job correctly.
This guide covers everything you need to know about wall mounting your Smart TV in an Australian home, from choosing the right mount to managing cables and achieving the perfect viewing angle.
Types of TV Wall Mounts
Before purchasing a mount, understand the different types available and which suits your needs:
Fixed Mounts
Fixed mounts hold the TV flat against the wall with no movement capability. They're the simplest and most affordable option, positioning the TV just a few centimetres from the wall. Choose a fixed mount when:
- Your viewing position is directly in front of the TV
- You want the slimmest profile possible
- You don't need to access ports behind the TV frequently
Tilting Mounts
Tilting mounts allow the TV to angle downward, typically up to 15 degrees. This is useful when the TV must be mounted higher than ideal - the tilt helps direct the screen toward seated viewers. Tilting mounts are popular for:
- Above-fireplace installations
- Bedrooms where you watch TV lying down
- Reducing glare from overhead lights
Full-Motion (Articulating) Mounts
Full-motion mounts extend from the wall on an arm and allow the TV to tilt, swivel, and sometimes rotate. They offer the most flexibility but are more expensive and complex to install. They're ideal for:
- Corner installations
- Rooms with multiple viewing positions
- Situations requiring frequent access to TV ports
Every mount has maximum weight and screen size ratings. Always verify your TV's weight and VESA mounting pattern (the spacing of mounting holes on the back) match the mount's specifications. Using an undersized mount is dangerous.
Understanding Australian Wall Types
The type of wall you're mounting to determines your approach. Australian homes commonly have:
Plasterboard (Drywall)
Most internal walls in Australian homes are plasterboard fixed to timber or steel studs. Plasterboard alone cannot support a TV - you must mount into the studs or use appropriate anchors. Studs are typically spaced 450mm or 600mm apart.
Brick or Masonry
External walls and some internal walls are brick or masonry. These provide excellent support when using appropriate masonry anchors. You'll need a hammer drill with masonry bits.
Concrete
Some apartments and modern homes have concrete walls. Like masonry, concrete provides strong support but requires specialised tools and concrete anchors.
Before drilling any holes, use a stud finder with AC detection to locate electrical wiring behind the wall. Australian building codes place electrical wiring in specific zones, but always verify before drilling. Hitting a live wire is extremely dangerous.
Tools and Materials Needed
Essential Tools
- Stud finder (electronic models work best)
- Spirit level (at least 60cm long)
- Drill with appropriate bits
- Socket set or spanner for mount bolts
- Pencil for marking
- Measuring tape
- Phillips head screwdriver
For Plasterboard/Stud Walls
- Wood screws (usually included with mount)
- Drill bit slightly smaller than screw diameter
For Brick/Masonry/Concrete
- Hammer drill
- Masonry drill bits
- Wall plugs or concrete anchors rated for your TV's weight
Determining the Ideal Height
The proper mounting height depends on your seating position and viewing preferences. The general rule is to position the TV so the centre of the screen is at eye level when seated. For most living room setups:
- The centre of the screen should be approximately 100-120cm from the floor
- This typically means the bottom edge of the TV sits 70-90cm from the floor
- Measure from your seated eye height for precision
If mounting above a fireplace (not ideal but common), use a tilting mount and accept that the viewing angle won't be perfect. Position the TV as low as the mantle allows and angle it downward.
Before committing to a height, tape a piece of paper or cardboard the size of your TV to the wall. Sit in your normal viewing position and look at it for several minutes. This simple test often reveals if your planned height needs adjustment.
Step-by-Step Installation
Step 1: Locate Wall Studs
Use your stud finder to locate studs behind the plasterboard. Mark both edges of each stud with pencil. The centre of the stud is between these marks. You need to hit at least two studs for a secure mount.
Step 2: Mark the Mounting Position
Hold the wall plate of your mount against the wall at your desired height. Use the spirit level to ensure it's perfectly horizontal. Mark the screw hole positions with a pencil.
Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes
Drill pilot holes at your marked positions. For timber studs, use a drill bit slightly smaller than your screws. For masonry, drill to the depth required for your wall plugs.
Step 4: Attach the Wall Plate
Secure the mount's wall plate using appropriate screws or anchors. Tighten firmly but don't over-tighten, which can strip the holes. Check with the level again after tightening.
Step 5: Attach Brackets to TV
With the TV face-down on a soft surface, attach the mounting brackets to the back of the TV using the bolts provided. These connect to the VESA mounting holes on your TV.
Step 6: Hang the TV
Carefully lift the TV and hook the brackets onto the wall plate. Most mounts have a locking mechanism - engage this to secure the TV. Have a helper support the TV while you verify it's properly seated.
Cable Management
A wall-mounted TV looks best with hidden cables. Options include:
In-Wall Cable Routing
The cleanest option is running cables through the wall. In Australia, you can run HDMI and other low-voltage cables through walls, but mains power cables require a licensed electrician to install a power outlet behind the TV. Never run power cables through wall cavities yourself.
Cable Covers
Surface-mounted cable covers (raceways) are a simpler solution. These plastic channels attach to the wall and can be painted to match. They're much easier than in-wall routing and don't require professional help.
Cable Management Kits
Many TV mounts include cable management features like clips or channels on the mount arm. Use these to route cables neatly along the mount itself.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mounting only to plasterboard: Always anchor into studs or use appropriate heavy-duty anchors for plasterboard-only mounting
- Using insufficient anchors: If you can't hit studs, use toggle bolts or wall anchors rated for your TV's weight plus a safety margin
- Ignoring the VESA pattern: Ensure your mount supports your TV's specific mounting hole pattern
- Mounting too high: Above-fireplace mounting often results in neck strain
- Forgetting ventilation: Leave some space behind the TV for heat dissipation
- Skipping the level: A crooked TV is immediately noticeable and frustrating
When to Hire a Professional
Consider professional installation if:
- You're uncomfortable using power tools
- Your wall is solid concrete or unusual construction
- You need an electrical outlet installed behind the TV
- The TV is very large or heavy (75 inches and above)
- You want in-wall cable routing for power
Professional TV mounting services in Australia typically cost between $100-$300 depending on complexity. This often includes cable management and ensures the job is done safely.
Conclusion
Wall mounting your Smart TV can transform your room's appearance and improve your viewing experience. With proper planning, the right tools, and careful attention to safety, it's a project many homeowners can complete themselves. Take time to find the studs, measure twice before drilling, and don't cut corners on mount quality. The result will be a clean, professional-looking installation that you'll enjoy for years.