When it comes to mounting a TV, it can be a daunting task for any first-time homeowner. As a frustrated owner myself, I recently found myself attempting this daunting task. I quickly became overwhelmed with researching the pros and cons of different mounting methods, and finding the right tips and tricks that would make the job easier. After much trial and error, I eventually figured it out, and I’m here to share my experience and the solutions I discovered.
Ideally, a TV mounting project can take as little as 20 minutes but it can also take several hours, as there are plenty of factors that can play a role in the duration of the project, such as the size of the TV, how handy you are, and whether you have the right tools for the project.
| Factor | Explanation | Time Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Size and Weight of the TV | Larger and heavier TVs require more effort and balancing during the mounting process. | Heavier TVs take longer to mount, especially without help. |
| Skill Level | Proficiency level affects the speed of mounting a TV. Beginners will take longer than experts. | Beginners may take hours, while experts can mount a TV in less than 20 minutes. |
| Type of TV Mount Used | The complexity of the TV mount (fixed, tilted, or articulating) affects the time needed for installation. | Fixed mounts take about 30 minutes, while more complex mounts may take hours. |
| Availability of Tools | Having the right tools readily available can save time during the mounting process. | Gathering tools during the process can add extra time. |
| Type of Wall | Mounting on solid surfaces like stone or concrete walls can take longer than on drywall with studs. | Solid surfaces may require additional time and preparation. |
Table of Contents
How Long Does Mounting a TV Take?
Mounting a TV on the wall is a process with a wide range of variables, and depending on these variables, the process may take very little or relatively long.
For example, a team of 2 or more professionals that are mounting a moderately sized TV may take as little as 20 to 30 minutes to get the job done.
However, if you’re doing the job on your own for the first time, or you’re installing a complex TV mount, such as articulating one, the process can take well over an hour.
Factors Affecting the Time Needed to Mount a TV
As you can see, there are various aspects that can increase or decrease the time needed to mount the TV:
1. The Size and Weight of the TV
The size of the TV is one of the aspects that plays a major role in determining the time needed for the mounting process.
Large TVs like 55 inch TVs or higher are usually heavy, weighing anywhere between 30 to 60 lbs.
Even if you can easily handle the weight of the TV, you still need to balance it properly while measuring and outlining the pilot hole locations on the mount.
On the other hand, a small TV is always easier to lift and it wouldn’t be difficult for you to place it over the mounting brack on the wall.
In the case of heavier TVs, it would save you a lot of time to have someone help you during the mounting process.
2. Skill Level
Another aspect that also has a major impact on the speed of the process is proficiency level. If you’re mounting a TV for the first time ever, it will take you a lot of time to figure out what should be done.
Also, a beginner will need to carefully read all the instructions regarding the mounting process before proceeding.
On the other hand, an expert who has mounted several TVs before will be able to pull off the project in much less time. In fact, some maintenance crews are capable of mounting large TVs in less than 20 minutes!
3. The Type of TV Mount Used
Not all TV mounts are created equal. In fact, there are 3 main types of mounts for TVs. The easiest and most affordable ones are the fixed mounts, which take an average of 30 minutes to be installed.
Other types of mounts, such as titled mounts and articulating mounts, will have extra installation steps, which end up taking a bit longer to secure, and some of them may take hours to install.
4. The Availability of Tools
Going back and forth to fetch a screwdriver or an electric drill can actually waste a lot of time, especially if you don’t have the tool on you.
Mounting a TV is a simple task but it still relies heavily on the availability of the right tools for the job. Ideally, you should make sure that these tools are with you during mounting:
- Electric drill with various drill bit
- Phillips Screwdriver (several sizes)
- A pencil for marking
- Stud finder (if you’re mounting on drywall)
- Spirit Level
- Measuring tape
5. The Type of Wall
Drilling and attaching hardware to solid surfaces and walls are much harder than attaching them to studs behind the drywall. This includes materials like stone and concrete walls.
Sometimes, mounting a TV may also require installing a supporting block on the wall, which can add up to an hour to the total time needed for mounting.
Final Thoughts
Mounting a TV on the wall is a relatively simple project and it shouldn’t take very long as long as you have all the tools necessary to get the job done.
However, with a little help from someone and clearing the obstacles in your way, a beginner should be able to mount the TV in as little as 30 to 45 minutes!
Read more: 50 vs 55 inch TV
