TV mount calculator

Every line shows the quantity to buy and how StudSheet got it: the spacing, the waste and the package size, so you can check it before the supply house or the quote.

In Canada (65-inch TV, tilting mount)

Set to Canada, the Sheet works the job out again for Ontario: metric sizes, bag sizes, the frost depth and the code notes. It doesn't just convert feet to meters. The first lines:

• 1, TV wall mount, tilting: A 65-inch TV weighs about 25 kg (check the box). Match the mount to the VESA hole pattern on the back of the TV. Most mounts ship with lag bolts, VESA screws and spacers.
• 1 kit, Paintable cord cover kit, 1.52 m: From the TV down to the outlet: about 305 mm of cord to hide. Paint it the wall color.

1. Pick the spot: the screen’s center at 42″ up (eye height when seated); plan the cables before you drill.
2. Find and mark two studs (16″ apart, center to center): find both edges of each with a stud finder and mark the middle. Scan for wires and pipes where you’ll drill.
3. Level the wall plate so the TV’s center lands at 42″ (the manual gives the plate-to-center distance), mark the holes, and drill pilot holes into the stud centers.
4. Fasten the plate: lag the plate into both studs, snug but not stripped.
5. Attach the arms (or brackets) to the TV with the VESA screws from the kit, the right length: a screw that bottoms out can crack the TV.
6. Hang the TV: two people lift it onto the plate; set the safety screws or locks, and level it.
7. Cables: stick or screw the cord cover from the TV down to the outlet, paint it the wall color, and run the cords inside.

Must-have tools first, then the ones that help and the ones to rent for the day.

Mistakes that cost a callback or a second trip

• Drywall anchors alone: Plastic or self-drilling drywall anchors pull out under a TV. Lags into studs, heavy toggles where the manual allows them, or a backer.
• Missing the stud center: A lag near the stud’s edge splits it and holds little. Find both edges and drill the middle.
• Too high: A screen above eye height strains your neck: the center at about seated eye height is easiest to watch.
• A cord pushed inside the wall: The TV’s own cord and extension cords may not run inside walls. Use a cord cover, or a listed in-wall kit.
• VESA screws too long: A screw that bottoms out can crack the screen from behind. Use the spacers, and stop when it’s snug.
• One person lifting a big TV: Big screens flex and slip. Two people lift, one guides the arms onto the plate.

What the calculator assumes

• TV weights without the stand (typical): 32-inch 10 lb, 43-inch 20 lb, 50-inch 26 lb, 55-inch 35 lb, 65-inch 55 lb, 75-inch 80 lb, 85-inch 100 lb, 98-inch 130 lb. Your TV’s box has the real number.
• A mount is rated for at least the TV’s weight; a full-motion arm for 1.5 times it.
• The screen is 16:9: its height is about half the diagonal (31-3/4″ for this one).
• The screen’s center goes at seated eye height, about 42″ (typical guidance).
• Anchors are counted at a quarter of their published ultimate load (a safety factor of 4).

The Sheet sets its code notes for the job's state or province. These are New Jersey's and Ontario's; the code reference has more. Always confirm with your building department.

• Permits: a job like this usually needs none, but towns set their own rules. Ask your building department if you're not sure.

What materials do I need to mount a TV on the wall?

For the worked example, a 65-inch TV, tilting mount, the Sheet counts 2 lines with waste included, starting with tV wall mount, tilting (1), paintable cord cover kit, 5 ft (1 kit). Each line's math is in the table above. Put in your own sizes in the tv mount calculator and every line is counted again.

How long does it take to mount a TV on the wall, and can I do it myself?

About 2 to 3 hours for the worked example, in 7 steps. StudSheet stamps it DIY OK: you can do this.

What tools do I need to mount a TV on the wall?

10 in all. The must-haves start with stud finder, 4-ft level, tape measure (25 ft), carpenter's pencil, cordless drill/driver, socket and ratchet set. On the Sheet you mark each one as owned, to buy or to rent.

Stuck while you mount a TV on the wall? Ask in the TV mounting group of the StudSheet community with this Sheet attached. Homeowners who've done it and verified pros answer, and anyone can read it.

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