Mounting your TV on the wall is one of the best ways to save space and
create a clean, modern look in your Lexington home. But before you grab
a drill, there are some important things you need to know to do it
right.
Why Mount Your TV?
Wall-mounted TVs look sleek, save floor space, and keep your TV safe
from kids and pets. Plus, you can position it at the perfect viewing
height for your room. In Lexington homes, where living rooms can be
cozy, every inch of space counts.
Finding the Perfect Height
The center of your TV screen should be at eye level when you're seated.
For most people, that's about 42-48 inches from the floor to the center
of the TV. Measure from your couch to get it just right.
Pro Tip:
Sit on your couch and have someone hold the TV where you think it
should go. This is the easiest way to find the perfect spot before
making any holes in the wall.
Understanding Your Wall Type
Different wall types require different approaches:
Standard Drywall with Studs
The most common in Lexington homes. You'll need to mount into the
wooden studs behind the drywall for a secure installation. Use a
stud finder to locate them - they're usually 16 inches apart.
Brick or Stone Walls
Common in older Lexington homes and around fireplaces. Requires
special masonry anchors and a hammer drill. This is definitely a job
for a professional.
Metal Studs
Found in newer apartments and condos. You need special toggle bolts
or snaptoggle anchors because regular wood screws won't work.
Choosing the Right Mount
There are three main types of TV mounts:
-
Fixed Mount:
Sits flat against the wall. Simple and affordable, but you can't
adjust the angle.
-
Tilting Mount:
Lets you angle the TV down, great if it's mounted higher than eye
level.
-
Full-Motion Mount:
Swivels and extends from the wall. Perfect for corner
installations or rooms with multiple viewing angles.
Cable Management Matters
Nothing ruins the clean look of a wall-mounted TV like a mess of cables
hanging down. Here are your options:
In-Wall Cable Concealment:
The cleanest option. We run cables through the wall from the TV to your
components below. This requires cutting two small holes and feeding the
cables through.
Cable Raceway: A
plastic channel that attaches to the wall and hides the cables. Easier
to install than in-wall, but slightly more visible.
Behind Furniture:
If you have a console or shelf below the TV, sometimes you can simply
drop the cables behind it.
Important:
Never run power cords through your walls - it's against building code
and a fire hazard. Only low-voltage cables (HDMI, etc.) can go inside
walls. You'll need an outlet behind or near the TV.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Using the Right Hardware
Using drywall anchors alone for a heavy TV is asking for trouble.
Always mount into studs or use proper anchors for your wall type.
Mounting Too High
Above the fireplace might look good, but it's terrible for your
neck. Eye level is best.
Ignoring Cable Management
Plan for cables before you start drilling. It's much harder to
hide them after the TV is up.
Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
Mounting a TV looks simple, but there are many ways it can go wrong. If
you're comfortable with tools and your wall is standard drywall with
wooden studs, you might be okay doing it yourself for a smaller TV.
However, you should definitely call a professional if:
-
Your TV is 55 inches or larger
-
You have brick, stone, or metal stud walls
-
You want in-wall cable concealment
-
You're not confident about finding studs or drilling into
walls
-
You're renting and need to avoid mistakes
Professional installation typically costs $120-$300 depending on your TV
size and wall type, but it includes the right tools, proper mounting,
and peace of mind that your expensive TV is secure.