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.
Prepping to Mount 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.
Take Measurements
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.
Mark Placement of Drill Holes
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.
Drill the Holes
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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.
Install Wall Brackets
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.
DIY vs Hiring a Pro
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mounting a TV to a brick wall can be safe and secure if done correctly. However, it requires proper installation to ensure the TV is firmly attached and won't pose a risk of falling. Guarantee your television is safely secured by checking the manufacturer's weight limits of your TV mount and wall anchors. Examine the condition and quality of the brick wall to ensure it is capable of sustaining the TV.
While it can be done, hanging a TV on a brick wall without drilling requires thoughtful care. Conditions of the wall, the weight of the TV, any items below the TV, and more must be taken into account. To effectively mount the TV would require specific tools to install, such as TV stands, clamps, and strong adhesives.
Fire and electronics typically don't mix, but that doesn't mean you can't mount your TV on a brick fireplace. However, you should proceed with caution. If you do not use your fireplace regularly, you can be assured that your TV will remain undamaged. However, if you do take advantage of it, be aware that hot air, containing soot, will travel upwards. Even with the flue fully open, the temperature above the fireplace can still get very high.
