Fixed (low-profile) mounts
A fixed mount holds the TV close to the wall, often an inch or two away, like a picture frame. It's the cleanest look and the most affordable option.
- Best for: living rooms where you sit straight in front of the TV at a normal height.
Tilting mounts
A tilting mount angles the screen down a few degrees. That cuts glare from windows and lights and helps when the TV sits a little higher than ideal.
- Best for: bedrooms, rooms with bright windows, and slightly high placements.
Full-motion (articulating) mounts
An arm that pulls the TV out from the wall and swivels it left or right. It's great when one TV has to serve more than one seating area.
- Best for: corners, open kitchens and family rooms, and rooms where you watch from different spots.
- Keep in mind: the arm puts more leverage on the wall, so anchoring to studs or solid masonry is essential.
Pull-down mantel mounts
A pull-down mount (MantelMount is the best-known brand) keeps the TV high above a fireplace when it's off, then pulls it down to eye level for viewing. It solves the neck strain of a TV over the mantel. See exactly how we install one in our MantelMount stone fireplace project.
- Best for: TVs above fireplaces and any wall where the TV has to sit high.
How high should a TV be mounted?
For seated viewing, the center of the screen should land close to eye level, typically around 40–45 inches from the floor for most couches. Bigger screens and seats farther back can go a little higher. When the only spot is high, over a fireplace or furniture, a tilting or pull-down mount makes up the difference.
What's behind the wall matters
- Drywall over wood studs: most homes in Loudoun County. Lag bolts go into the studs, never into drywall alone.
- Metal studs: common in condos and offices. They need rated toggle anchors.
- Brick and solid stone: sleeve or wedge anchors drilled into solid masonry, not mortar joints.
- Stacked-stone veneer: anchor through the veneer into the framing behind it.
- Concrete: high-rise condos in Reston, Tysons and Arlington. Hammer drill and concrete anchors.
Check before you buy a mount
Match the mount to your TV's VESA pattern (the bolt spacing on the back) and make sure its weight rating covers your TV with room to spare. Our TV mounting service includes a fixed, tilting or full-motion mount matched to your TV, starting at $150–$250 per TV.
