
Find out how much it costs to build a chicken coop—whether you've got a few hens in your backyard or a big, self-sustaining flock—with our expert guide.
Nothing can stop you from watching TV in style
Mounting a TV on the wall is a great way to maximize space and give any room a sleek look. While you may have mounted a TV to drywall in the past, affixing one to brick is a slightly different process that is manageable for a handy DIYer. Read on for a step-by-step guide on safely mounting a TV on a brick wall.
Before you set out to mount your TV, you need to determine the best location for it. Find an area, angle, and height that won't get too much glare from natural light flowing in through the windows. If needed, enlist the help of a friend to help you brainstorm the spot and make notes as you move around the room determining the angles.
It may be a good idea to have a location in mind and then see how the light comes through the area at different times of the day. This way, you know the placement makes the most sense. Mounting a TV on a brick wall isn't something you're going to want to do again after an initial install because you would otherwise end up with uncovered drill holes. Take the time to find the optimal location.
You also need to keep in mind proximity to outlets, internet hookups, and cable jacks. The last thing you want is a mess of wires all over the place, so look for a location that is close to these areas.
With your TV lying screen down on a drop cloth or sheet, follow the instructions provided by the bracket manufacturer to attach the bracket to the TV. If you have a two-part bracket, affix both components to the rear of the TV as if they were secured to the wall.
To determine the location for the bracket mount on the wall, measure from the base of the wall bracket to the bottom of the TV and add this to the intended height of the television. For example, if this measurement in 5 inches and you'd like the base of the TV to be 56 inches from the floor, you'll measure 61 inches high.
Once the measurements have been taken, detach the wall bracket from the TV, leaving the other half attached if it's a two-part bracket.
Place the wall bracket on the brick so the bottom of it is at the desired height using a level to ensure the bracket is perfectly aligned. On the brick, mark the placement of each screw hole using a permanent marker.
If the marks appear on mortar lines, move the bracket to another location and make new markings. Because mortar is softer than brick, using this location could cause deterioration of the anchor's grip over time so you always want to drill directly into the brick. However, you do want to avoid drilling within a half-inch of the brick edges as that could result in cracks.
If you know how to drill into brick, you also know that it's imperative to wear safety glasses and a mask. Quite a bit of dust will come out of the brick and you want to protect your eyes and lungs.
Brick is difficult to drill through so you will need special masonry drill bits to attach the best anchors for brick. Start by attaching the suitable masonry bit to your drill, marking the bit for depth by wrapping a small piece of painter’s tape around it. Put the tip of the drill bit on one of the marks and squeeze the trigger slowly until the bit digs into the brick. If needed, lightly tapping the back of the drill can also get the bit in place.
Once the bit begins to dig in, increase the speed of the drill. Make sure to remove brick dust from the hole periodically by pulling out the bit slightly. Drill until the desired depth, marked by the tape, is achieved.
Position the bracket on the brick wall so it aligns with the drilled holes. Place washers on the screws to make sure they fit snugly into the bracket. While supporting the bracket, guide the screws through the holes by hand.
Once the screws are in place, affix the drill bit or socket on a ratchet to each one and tighten gradually. After each screw is tightened, make sure the bracket is level before continuing with the other screws. Tighten all of them until the bracket is firmly secured.
Depending on the size and weight of your TV, you may need an extra pair of hands to help you with mounting the TV on a brick wall. To mount two-piece brackets, first install the TV brackets that are already attached to the TV onto the wall bracket. Check the bracket instructions for any screws or tabs that will secure the TV in its position.
For one-piece brackets, you may require assistance to hold the television while you thread the screws through the TV bracket and into the back of the TV. Keep the TV in place on the fixed wall bracket while also attaching any wiring that goes behind it. If there are cables dangling beneath, it's best to place furniture underneath the TV to hide the cords as much as possible.
Mounting a TV on a brick wall is a straightforward project that handy homeowners can DIY on their own if they have the time and materials. However, if you're not confident in completing this job on your own or you don't have the time, consider hiring a handyman. Different contractors will vary in how they price their services. On average, hourly handyman contractors charge between $40 to $140 per hour, while rates average $400 per project.
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Find out how much it costs to build a chicken coop—whether you've got a few hens in your backyard or a big, self-sustaining flock—with our expert guide.
Learn how much it costs to board up a window to buy yourself some time and maintain home security while you wait for the permanent repair.
How much does a wheelchair ramp cost? It’s all about size, materials, and features. This guide can help you plan your budget with ADA compliance in mind.
Hiring the right handyperson can save you time and even money. Here are the best tips for hiring any home project, plus interview questions for a handyperson.
Both a handyman and contractor serve different purposes for your home projects. This guide will help you hire the right professional for your unique job.
Before starting a project, it’s important to decide whether you buy or rent tools. The best option will depend on what you’re doing and the project magnitude.