Common TV Mounting Mistakes to Avoid in Brisbane Homes
TV mounting looks straightforward, but small mistakes can lead to damaged walls, broken TVs, poor viewing angles, and even safety hazards. This guide covers the most common errors we see in Brisbane homes and how to avoid them.
Why This Matters
These mistakes aren't just aesthetic issues—they can result in damaged TVs worth thousands of dollars, wall repairs costing hundreds, and in worst cases, injuries from falling TVs. Learn from others' errors.
Mistake #1: Mounting Too High
This is the single most common TV mounting mistake. Many homeowners mount their TV way above optimal viewing height, often influenced by hotels or showrooms where design trumps comfort.
The Problem:
- Neck strain and discomfort after 30+ minutes of viewing
- Poor picture quality from viewing at wrong angle to screen
- Eye fatigue from constantly looking upward
- Reduced immersion and viewing enjoyment
The Solution:
The center of your TV screen should be at eye level when seated. For most Brisbane living rooms, this means:
- Seated eye level: 95-110cm from floor
- 55\" TV center: Mount at approximately 100cm to center
- 65\" TV center: Mount at approximately 95cm to center
- 75\" TV center: Mount at approximately 90cm to center
Mistake #2: Not Finding Studs or Using Wrong Anchors
Mounting directly to plasterboard without proper anchoring is dangerous. Plasterboard alone cannot support TV weight—it will eventually tear and fail.
The Problem:
- TV and mount can pull out of wall, causing damage and injury
- Standard plasterboard anchors rated for only 5-10kg
- Modern 55-65\" TVs weigh 15-25kg plus mount weight
- Vibration and cable stress gradually weakens inadequate anchors
The Solution:
- Timber studs: Use a stud finder to locate timber frame. Secure mount directly to studs with appropriate wood screws.
- Between studs: Use heavy-duty toggle bolts rated for at least 2x your TV weight. Minimum 50kg rating for typical TVs.
- Brick/masonry: Use masonry anchors with appropriate drill bits. Dynabolts or chemical anchors for heavy TVs.
- Concrete: Use concrete anchors. Consider professional installation for optimal placement and safety.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Cable Management
Many people focus on mounting the TV but forget about cables until after installation. The result is unsightly cables dangling down the wall, destroying the clean look.
The Problem:
- Visible cables ruin the aesthetic of wall-mounted TV
- Difficult to add cable management after TV is mounted
- May require remounting TV to install in-wall solutions
- Trip hazards and cable damage risks
The Solution:
Plan cable management BEFORE mounting:
- In-wall solution: Best option. Run cables through wall cavity using wall plates. Power cables must be installed by licensed electrician in Queensland.
- Cable raceways: Surface-mounted channels. Can be painted to match walls. Good for rentals or concrete walls.
- Hire professionals: MountPro Brisbane includes cable management with every installation.
Mistake #4: Choosing the Wrong Mount Type
Not all mounts suit all situations. A fixed mount in a room with multiple viewing angles, or an articulating mount where a fixed would work better.
The Problem:
- Fixed mounts can't adjust if viewing angle is wrong
- Articulating mounts stick out unnecessarily, look bulky
- Wrong mount type requires reinstallation to fix
- Incompatible mount/TV combinations create safety issues
The Solution:
- Fixed mount: When TV directly faces seating, at eye level, and viewing position doesn't change.
- Tilting mount: When mounting above eye level (above fireplace), or glare is an issue.
- Articulating mount: For corner placement, open-plan living with multiple seating areas, or kitchen viewing from different positions.
- Check VESA compatibility: Ensure mount supports your TV's VESA pattern and weight rating.
Mistake #5: Not Considering Wall Type
Brisbane homes have diverse wall constructions—plasterboard, brick, concrete, timber. Each requires different installation approaches and hardware.
The Problem:
- Using timber screws in brick walls—won't hold
- Using masonry bits on timber—damages framing
- Wrong drill bit creates oversized holes, reducing strength
- Not accounting for hidden wiring or plumbing
The Solution:
- Identify wall type first: Knock test, visual inspection, or use detection tool.
- Use correct hardware: Timber screws for studs, masonry anchors for brick, concrete anchors for concrete, toggle bolts for hollow walls.
- Check for obstacles: Use cable detector to find wiring before drilling.
- Hire professionals for complex walls: Especially brick veneer or double-brick Brisbane homes.
Mistake #6: Poor Viewing Distance Planning
Mounting location should consider not just height, but also distance from seating. Too close or too far impacts viewing comfort.
Optimal Viewing Distances:
- 55\" TV: 1.7 - 2.8 meters from seating
- 65\" TV: 2.0 - 3.3 meters from seating
- 75\" TV: 2.3 - 3.8 meters from seating
- 85\" TV: 2.6 - 4.3 meters from seating
Brisbane-Specific Considerations
- Queenslander homes: Older timber construction may have thinner walls or VJ boards that require special mounting techniques.
- Humidity effects: Brisbane's humidity can affect plasterboard integrity. Ensure anchors penetrate deep enough for solid hold.
- Electrical regulations: Queensland requires licensed electricians for any power-related work. Never run power cables through walls yourself.
Avoid These Mistakes—Hire Professionals
MountPro Brisbane has mounted thousands of TVs across all Brisbane wall types and home styles. We avoid all these common mistakes, provide proper anchoring, professional cable management, and back every installation with a 5-year warranty. Don't risk your expensive TV on DIY errors.
Call 0406 700 340