The Complete Guide to Setting up a TV Outdoors
There are few things better than a clear, breezy night in the backyard with loved ones, watching the big name or a hit movie. Having an outdoor TV can create some beautiful memories.
But heat, cold, moisture, dust and sunlight can damage screens and wiring if you aren’t careful. This guide covers why outdoor mounting is different, what materials you need, and how to install and maintain an outdoor TV safely and stylishly.
Why outdoor mounting is different
Indoor TVs are built for stable temperature and humidity. Conditions outside vary widely and can shorten your TV’s lifespan. Consider:
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Weather exposure: Rain, snow and humidity can seep into wiring and circuitry. Even if your area is dry, morning dew and sprinklers pose a risk. IP ratings measure how well enclosures keep out water; an outdoor TV should have at least an IP54 rating.
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Temperature extremes: Electronics operate best between 50–90 °F — anything outside of that, and you could be slowly damaging the unit. Outdoor TVs include heaters and cooling fans to maintain a safe internal temperature.
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Sunlight and UV: Direct sun can cause permanent damage to LCD panels and plastics. High brightness (1,000+ nits) is essential for daytime viewing. You’ll likely need a sun shade or pergola to reduce glare and protect the screen.
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Wind and vibration: Strong gusts and storms exert force on mounts. Outdoor mounts must be rated for wind loads and attached to structural elements like masonry or wooden posts.
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Power and safety: Moisture increases the risk of electrical shock. Always use GFCI outlets outdoors and ground the installation properly. Surge protectors and lightning arrestors are also a good idea.
How to mount a TV outside
To safely mount a TV outside, you’ll need:
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An outdoor-rated TV: Look for models labelled “outdoor” with weatherproof casing and at least 1,000 nits brightness. Brands like Sylvox and SunBrite specialize in outdoor sets.
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A TV mount: You have two choices here:
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If you’re not putting your TV and mount under some sort of enclosure, choose a weatherproof mount made of stainless steel or galvanized metal to resist rust.
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As long as your TV and mount are safely covered in a weatherproof outdoor TV enclosure, you can repurpose an indoor TV and mount. Many MantelMount customers do this in their outdoor living spaces.
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Hammer drill and masonry bits: Masonry requires a hammer drill. For wooden posts or studs, a regular drill will suffice. Have bits sized to your anchors.
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Stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized anchors: These materials resist corrosion. Select sleeve anchors or lag bolts appropriate for your wall type.
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Silicone sealant: Apply around drilled holes and cable entry points to keep out moisture.
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GFCI outlet and outdoor-rated extension cord: Power your TV and any components from a ground-fault protected source. Hide cords in conduit or bury outdoor‑rated cable.
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Surge protector: Outdoor surge protectors safeguard against lightning strikes and power spikes. Look for joule ratings of 3,000 or higher.
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Optional accessories: Don’t forget a pergola or shade sail to reduce direct sun, a dust cover for the unit when not in use, and a soundbar rated for outdoor use.
Step-by-step instructions
Follow this process to install your outdoor TV:
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Choose the location: Select a wall or post that provides shelter from rain and sun. Covered patios, pergolas and gazebos are ideal. Ensure the location has access to power and is visible from all seating areas.
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Plan the wiring: Install a weatherproof GFCI outlet if one isn’t already available. Run outdoor-rated electrical cable in conduit. For video sources, use buried coax or high-speed HDMI cables rated for outdoor use. Plan the cable route to minimize exposure and trip hazards.
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Prepare the mounting surface: For masonry, mark the mounting holes and drill with a hammer drill. Depth should match the length of your anchors. Insert anchors and test the fit. For wood posts, pre-drill pilot holes for lag screws.
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Seal the penetrations: Apply silicone sealant around each drilled hole. This prevents moisture from seeping behind the mount and into the structure.
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Install the mount: Attach the bracket to the wall using stainless or galvanised hardware. Use a level to ensure it is straight. Tighten bolts evenly (but avoid overtightening, which can cause cracking).
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Secure the TV or enclosure: If using an outdoor TV, attach it to the mount per the manufacturer’s instructions. For an outdoor TV enclosure, mount the enclosure first and then place the TV inside. Connect fans or heaters to power if required.
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Make connections: Plug the TV or enclosure into the GFCI outlet via a surge protector. Run HDMI or coax cables through conduit to your cable box or streaming device. Secure cables with weather-resistant clips.
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Test and adjust: Turn on the TV and adjust the angle and tilt for the best viewing position. Check that fans operate correctly and that the screen is visible in daylight.
Weatherproofing and maintenance tips
Every now and then, check all the seals, bolts and cables. Tighten loose hardware and replace worn seals. Wipe the screen with a soft cloth and mild cleaner.
In extreme climates, you may want to remove the TV and store it indoors during the off-season, or use an enclosure with a built-in heater/cooler.
🪲 Bug tip: Seal any gaps where insects might nest, and use screens or fine mesh around ventilation openings.
Remember to inspect and maintain your setup regularly to keep it safe and functional for seasons to come.
Get More Home Entertainment Setup Advice
The MantelMount blog covers everything from clever layout hacks for small living rooms to how to build a DIY home theater in a weekend.
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