Installing your own TV wall mount can save money compared to hiring a professional. But to do the job safely and securely, having the right tools on hand is crucial.
Follow this overview of the must-have tools for a DIY TV mounting project, and you’ll be prepared to create a professional-looking mounting setup in your home.
Table of Contents
Stud Finder
A stud finder is arguably the most vital tool for finding the wood studs behind your drywall that will safely support your mounted TV. Studs provide the strongest mounting surface – drywall alone can’t support a heavy TV.
Look for a stud finder with:
- Multiple detection modes – detect wood, metal and live AC wires.
- Deep scanning – up to 3⁄4” depth to detect edges of studs.
- Marking capabilities – built in markings to map the stud edges.
- Accuracy – consistently pinpoints stud center for mounting.
Quality stud finders from trusted brands like Zircon or CH Hanson eliminate guesswork and issues later on.
Bubble Level
A bubble level is required to ensure your TV bracket is mounted completely straight and even on the wall. Uneven mounting looks unprofessional and risks TV instability.
Opt for at least a 9” level to reach across brackets. Laser levels that project a straight line are even better for large installations.
Power Drill
A reliable power drill makes quick work of drilling pilot holes for lag bolts into wood studs or concrete anchors.
Look for:
- Cordless convenience – avoid dragging cords and reduce outlet needs.
- 1⁄2” chuck – accepts large diameter drill bits.
- Clutch settings – prevent over-tightening and stripping screw heads.
- Variable speed – slower for pilot holes, higher for anchors.
- Torque control – prevents powerful torque from damage or injury.
Top brands like DEWALT, Makita and Milwaukee deliver versatility, control and durability.
Drill Bits
Having the right drill bits on hand is key for drilling clean pilot holes and anchor points.
For wood studs, use:
- 1/8” bit – for pilot holes for lag screws. Reduces wood splitting.
For concrete and masonry walls, have:
- Concrete anchor drill bits – carbide tipped, match anchor diameter.
- Masonry bits for brick, concrete and stone.
Check appropriate size for the anchors and screws you’ll be using.
Ratchet Set
A quality ratchet set allows securely tightening lag bolts and anchor bolts while mounting the bracket and TV. Look for:
- 1⁄2” drive ratchet – for stability and torque.
- Extended handle – for additional leverage.
- Sockets for lag bolts – typically 5/16”, 3/8”, and 7/16”.
- Hex sockets – for tightening nuts onto anchors.
Quality mechanics ratchet sets from Gearwrench, Craftsman or Husky have the versatility.
Wrenches
In addition to a ratchet set, having a basic adjustable wrench and socket wrench ensures you can tighten bolts and connections. A set of Allen wrenches is handy too.
Cable Management
For hiding cables, you’ll need:
- Cable clamps – affix cables tightly to the mount.
- Cable channels – hides cables against the wall.
- Cable ties – bundles cables together neatly.
- Cable sleeves – contains cables for a clean look.
Proper cable management results in a clean, professional TV installation.
Safety Equipment
Safety should also be top of mind:
- Work gloves – protect hands from sharp edges.
- Safety goggles – critical when drilling or hammering.
- Dust mask – avoid inhaling drywall or masonry dust.
- Ear plugs – protects hearing from drill whine.
- Helper – extra set of hands for lifting and steadying the TV.
Don’t take chances with safety!
Having this comprehensive toolkit prepares you to take on any TV mounting scenario. Investing in quality tools also makes easy work out of future installation or repair jobs. Grab your DIY mounting tools and upgrade your space with a professionally mounted TV today!
