MantelMount

TV mounting looks simple until you’re halfway in with extra bolts, a missing spacer, and a wall full of test holes. What surprises most people isn’t the mount—it’s that placement and execution matter more than the bracket itself. A premium mount won’t save a missed stud, and the right hardware won’t help if you don’t have the tool to tighten it properly. This is a practical guide to the TV mounting tools you need to keep the install clean and secure. What Usually Goes Wrong Bad installs rarely fail in one dramatic way. They fail through small misses: The bracket is level—but not centered on the room or console. The “stud” wasn’t a stud. Lag bolts bite, but not into structure. TV bolts are almost right, so they bottom out or clamp unevenly. Cables are an afterthought, leaving the TV floating or cords exposed. Most of this is avoidable with the right prep. Core TV Mounting Tools Must-haves Stud finder (deep-scan if possible): verify readings; don’t trust the first beep. Drill/driver with clutch: control matters when tightening into studs or TV threads. Drill bits: wood bits for studs; masonry bit for brick/concrete. Socket or wrench: the correct way to snug lag bolts. Level: re-check after tightening; brackets can shift under torque. Tape measure: height, centerline, stud spacing. Pencil + painter’s tape: clean, visible layout marks. Nice-to-haves that save time Laser level: easier centerlines on wide wall plates. Magnet or finishing nail: confirm studs discreetly. Shop vac: keeps dust from scratching and making a mess. Step stool/ladder: don’t balance on furniture. Drill vs. impact driver Impact drivers make it easy to overdo it—crushing drywall or stripping hardware. Use a drill for control; if you use an impact, stop short and finish by hand. Related Reading: How to Install a Motorized TV Mount TV Mount Hardware: Verify Before You Drill What’s usually included TV-side: metric bolts (often M4/M6/M8), washers, sometimes spacers. Wall-side: lag bolts for wood studs; basic masonry anchors (often limited). What actually matters Spacers: required for curved or recessed TV backs; prevent chassis stress. Correct bolt length: too short = weak hold; too long = bottoms out and stays loose. Washers: spread load and prevent uneven clamping. Tip: VESA and weight aren’t the whole story. Dry-fit the TV-side hardware first to confirm bolt length and spacer needs—then drill the wall. TV Mounting Supplies That Make It Look Finished Finish-improving Cable management: surface raceway or sleeves (decide early). Proper cable lengths: avoid tension on ports. Velcro straps: easier to adjust than zip ties. Bumpers/felt pads (some mounts): prevent wall tapping. Mistake-preventing Painter’s tape (layout + scuff protection) Small patch kit (confirmation holes happen) Hardware tray (carpet eats screws) Prep Decisions to Make Before Drilling Height Set height by seated eye level—not empty wall space. Be extra cautious above fireplaces. Centerline Center on the console or seating, not the wall. Tape a vertical line, step back, and judge it like you live there. Power and cables Decide how power and signal will run before mounting. Cable regret usually starts after the TV is up. Stud plan Find stud edges, mark them, then verify (magnet or small probe in a covered spot). Guessing is how TVs fall. Wall Types: Don’t Improvise Wood studs: pilot holes matter; full-motion mounts increase stress. Metal studs: different fasteners; higher risk if done wrong. Masonry: correct anchors, proper hole depth, clear dust. Drywall-only: generally a bad idea for most TVs—especially full-motion. 5-Minute Checklist Before drilling Confirm VESA, size, and weight compatibility Dry-fit TV arms: correct bolt size/length + spacers Mark centerline and height from seating Confirm power + cable route Confirm wall type and fastener plan Before hanging the TV Re-check level after tightening Bolts snug, not over-torqued Cables connect without strain DIY Kit Mindset: Pack Once, Install Once A solid DIY kit reduces uncertainty: Tools: stud finder, drill, bits, level, tape, socket/wrench Hardware: confirmed bolts, spacers, washers, wall fasteners Supplies: tape, cable plan, straps, cleanup Treat mounting like a small project, not a spontaneous task. That’s how you keep the wall intact and the TV safe. Quick FAQs What tools do I need? Stud finder, drill, bits, level, tape, socket/wrench; masonry tools if needed. Does the mount include all hardware? Often TV-side bolts yes; wall fasteners may vary by wall type. Most common hardware mistake? Wrong bolt length or skipping spacers. Drywall-only mounting? Not recommended for most TVs, especially full-motion. Drill or impact? Drill for control; finish by hand. Ready to select the perfect mount for your needs? Check out the collection at .