TV Mounting: DIY vs Professional, Which Saves More Money?

Posted on July 10th, 2024.

Mounting a TV on the wall has become a popular choice for many homeowners looking to enhance their viewing experience while saving space. However, the decision to tackle this project yourself or hire a professional can be challenging. Both approaches have their unique advantages and potential drawbacks, often influenced by factors such as cost, time, and the complexity of the installation. 

In this article, we'll explore the essentials of TV mounting, compare the financial implications of DIY versus professional installation, and highlight the pros and cons of each method. By the end, you'll have a clearer understanding of which option best suits your needs and budget, ensuring a secure and enjoyable TV setup in your home. 

The Basics of TV Mounting 

Understanding the basics of TV mounting is crucial for any homeowner considering how to set up their television. First and foremost, mounting a TV involves affixing the television securely to a wall, typically using a bracket designed to hold its weight.  

• One of the key factors to consider is the type of wall you're dealing with—drywall, plaster, concrete, and brick all call for different mounting techniques and hardware. 
• Additionally, the weight and size of your TV will influence the kind of bracket and wall anchors you'll need. It's imperative that the mounting hardware is rated to support your specific TV to prevent accidents. 
• Aside from the hardware, understanding the recommended TV mounting height is also important to ensure comfortable viewing without straining your neck. The general rule of thumb is to position the center of your TV at eye level when you're seated. 

The general process of TV mounting usually begins with selecting the right spot, which often includes considering room layout, lighting, and proximity to power outlets. Once you’ve chosen the spot, the next step is to attach the wall bracket. Depending on your wall type, you might need specialized tools such as a stud finder to locate the studs behind your wallboard, or masonry bits if you’re dealing with concrete. After your bracket is securely fastened, you’ll need to attach the mounting plate to the back of your TV. The final step typically involves hoisting the TV and securing it to the wall bracket. Throughout this process, ensuring a secure installation is vital to avoid any mishaps or accidents that could result in damage to your TV or harm to household members. 

For those who prefer the best approach for TV mounting, it comes down to personal comfort and skill level. If you're confident with tools and basic handyman tasks, DIY can be a cost-effective solution. However, if you’re not comfortable drilling into walls or dealing with the complexities of various wall types and TV weights, opting for professional services can save you time and potential errors. A professional installer will consider all the critical factors and handle any unexpected challenges that might arise. Plus, they can offer additional services like concealing cables for a cleaner look. Ultimately, whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional, the goal is to ensure a secure and stable installation that offers a comfortable viewing experience. 

The Cost of Professional TV Mounting 

When it comes to understanding the professional TV mounting cost, it’s important to break down the typical expenses you might encounter. Initially, professional services might have a base cost ranging from $100 to $300. This fee generally includes the labor to mount the TV to the wall, ensuring it's securely installed. However, there could be additional costs depending on the complexity of the job. For example, if you have a heavier TV or a more challenging wall type, the installation might require specialized brackets or anchors which could add to the total cost. Some professionals also provide their own high-quality mounting brackets, which can cost anywhere from $25 to $50 more. Another potential expense is cable management. If you want a clean, clutter-free look, hiding those cables can involve extra work and materials, costing around $50 to $100. Lastly, it's not uncommon for some providers to charge for travel if you’re outside their usual service area. 

Professional TV Mounting Advantages 

While the upfront costs of professional TV mounting might seem higher than a DIY approach, the benefits often justify the investment.  

• For starters, professionals bring a wealth of experience and the right tools to ensure your TV is mounted safely and securely. They can handle various wall types and identify the best mounting solutions, minimizing the risk of damage to your wall or TV. 
• Another advantage is time-saving; what might take you a whole afternoon, a professional can likely do in an hour or two, saving you precious time. 
• Additionally, many professional services offer a warranty or guarantee on their work. This warranty can offer peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, the installer will come back to fix it at no extra cost. 
• Also, if you're ever planning on upgrading or moving your TV, having a professional installation initially can simplify future adjustments and installations. 
• Moreover, professional TV mounting can often include additional services that homeowners might not even consider. These can range from setting up and configuring your TV, connecting it to your home network, and even enhancing the audio setup for the best viewing experience. A lot of service providers offer a bundled package deal, giving you more value for your money by taking care of all these aspects in one go. This means you don't have to stress about whether your connections are right or if you'll encounter interference with any other devices. 
• The convenience and expertise provided by professional installations ensure that everything is optimized from the start, thus enhancing your overall viewing experience. If ever your home setup requires troubleshooting, having had your TV professionally mounted means you can rely on expert support easily. 
• Additionally, professionally mounting your TV could potentially increase your home’s resale value, as it shows potential buyers a clean and thoughtfully designed living space. 

Pros and Cons of DIY TV Mounting 

On the flip side, if you decide to go the DIY TV installation route, you're certainly looking at some significant cost savings. The most immediate advantage is the absence of labor fees, which can amount to a considerable sum for professional services. With DIY, all you're paying for, essentially, are the materials like the bracket and any tools you might need. Most wall brackets are relatively affordable, costing anywhere from $20 to $100 based on the complexity and quality. However, it’s important to remember that the right tools can make a big difference. Essentials like a stud finder, drill, level, screwdriver, and wall anchors are must-haves. If you don’t have these already, borrowing or renting them could keep costs down. By doing it yourself, you also get the flexibility to choose the exact placement and height of your TV, ensuring it fits your specific needs and preferences. 

While the cost savings are appealing, DIY also comes with its share of challenges and pitfalls. One primary concern is the risk of improper installation. If the TV isn't mounted correctly, there’s a high risk of it falling, which could cause significant damage to both your television and your wall—potentially leading to even higher expenses down the line. Improper positioning might also result in an uncomfortable viewing angle, leading to neck strain over time. A TV that isn't level can be an eyesore, not to mention the stress of double-checking every step to make sure it's safe and secure. Moreover, dealing with different wall types without adequate experience can be daunting. For example, without properly anchoring into the studs on a drywall, the bracket might not hold, resulting in a dangerous situation. 

To mitigate these risks when opting for a DIY approach, there are some practical steps you can take. Start by thoroughly reading the TV bracket’s installation manual; manufacturers often provide detailed instructions tailored to their specific products. Using a stud finder can ensure that your mount is securely attached to the wall studs, which is particularly important if you’re dealing with drywall. Before drilling, make sure you mark your spots clearly and double-check your measurements—remember, measure twice, drill once! Investing in a quality level will help you keep the TV perfectly horizontal, which is key for both aesthetics and stability. Additionally, consider watching a few instructional videos online to gain a visual understanding of the process. Lastly, if you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend or family member experienced with such tasks for an extra pair of hands and eyes—sometimes, a little help can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and sturdy installation. 

When Should You Opt for Professional Installation? 

This is a question many homeowners face, especially when considering the security and longevity of their TV setup. If your TV mounting scenario involves more than just basic drywall, such as a brick or concrete wall, then engaging professional TV mounting services is often the best approach. 

Lack of tools can be another compelling reason to lean toward professional installation. If you don't already own a stud finder, level, power drill, or the various bespoke anchors and screws needed, you'd have to either buy or rent these supplies. Renting might seem like a cost-effective solution, but the costs can quickly add up, particularly if multiple days are needed for the job.  

Lack of confidence in your abilities is another significant indicator that professional installation might be the way to go. Even with the right tools and a step-by-step guide, not everyone feels comfortable drilling into their walls or handling valuable equipment. If the thought of doing it yourself brings more anxiety than excitement, it’s probably worth the investment in professional services. Professionals not only ensure the mounting is done securely and safely, but they also handle any unexpected challenges. If the desired location for your TV requires creative adjustments or custom solutions, a professional can smoothly navigate these hurdles. Additionally, professional installations often include a warranty, so should any issues arise, they’ll come back and address them at no extra cost, saving you from potential future expenses and giving your setup a polished, professional finish. 

We can help 

As you can see, mounting a TV on the wall offers numerous benefits for homeowners. But when it comes to actually completing the task, the decision between doing it yourself or hiring a professional can be overwhelming. The choice may depend on various factors, including cost, time, and the difficulty of the installation process. That's why Gravity Solutions TV Mounting is here to help. 

Our team of professionals at Gravity Solutions TV Mounting is dedicated to providing top-notch TV mounting services that will enhance your viewing experience and save you time and hassle. We understand the importance of a secure and well-installed TV, and we have the expertise to make it happen. Whether you're on a budget or looking for a hassle-free experience, our services can cater to your specific needs. Don't stress about figuring out the complexities of TV mounting on your own. Let us take care of it for you. Contact Gravity Solutions TV Mounting today at 404-316-2328 or [email protected] to learn more about our innovative solutions. Your perfect viewing setup awaits!