Are you looking to mount your TV, but don’t know what kind of screws to use? Don’t worry.
In this blog post, we’ll provide you with the information you need to make sure your TV is safely and securely mounted to the wall.
From understanding the size of the screws to the types of anchors you should use, we’ll help you make sure your TV mount is properly installed.
What Size Screw For The TV Mount?
For TV mounts, the size of the screw are M4, M5, M6, and M8. The M8 screw is the most common screw for mounting the TV to the wall bracket. Check the TV manual or mounting kit instructions to choose the correct screw size and ensure secure and proper installation, preventing any damage to the TV.
TV Mount Screw Size Chart:
| VESA Pattern Size | Screw Size |
|---|---|
| Below 200 | M4 |
| 200 | M6 |
| Above 200 | M8 |
Different Types of Screws Suitable for a TV Mount
Standard Screws and Their Compatibility
Standard screws are commonly used for TV mounts. They come in sizes like M4, M5, M6, and M8.
The benefit of standard screws is their wide availability and compatibility with most TV mounts. However, they might not fit all TV models.
Metric Screws for Precision
Metric screws are another type used in TV mounts. They range from M4 x 12 mm to M8 x 45 mm. Metric screws offer precision, ensuring a secure fit. But, they might be harder to find in some regions.
Philips Head Screws and Their Specificity
Philips head screws are designed for Philips flat-screen TVs. They’re rated for TV mounting and meet ASTM, ISO, ANSI, and DIN specs. The drawback is that they might not fit other TV brands.
Hex Head Screws for Hard Surfaces
Hex head screws, or lag bolts, are used for mounting TVs on hard surfaces like concrete or brick walls. They offer high holding capacity. However, they require specific drill bits and machinery for installation.
Why Screw Size Matter When Mounting TV?
Using the right size screw is a critical factor while mounting the TV to the wall.
The screw must be strong enough to hold the TV’s weight, and the TV mount’s weight and go deep enough into the wall to prevent it from falling.
The screw should also be the right size to keep the mount to the TV.
Otherwise, a too-large screw won’t fit through the hole perfectly while too short won’t go deep enough and deliver the required room to the spacers.
How to Determine the Correct Screw Size
Check the box with the TV mount
Picking the right size screw for the TV mount isn’t too complicated. If your TV is VESA compliant, then the screw should come in the box.
Sometimes the screws are taped onto the mount. If you don’t find them in the packaging, look around carefully as you may accidentally throw them in the trash.
Using the screws that come with the TV is vital as applying others can void the warranty.
Check the user manual
If you somehow lost the screw or are unable to find it, look at the user manual of the TV mount.
Here you’ll get detail on what type and size screws you have to use to mount the TV.
If you can’t check the manual, take it to the hardware store and let the storekeeper help you.
Purchase A Universal Screw Kit
Another effective way to mount a TV is using a pre-made kit. Online stores like Amazon have a large variety of screws suitable for mounting TV from which you can choose the compatible kits easily.
To get a better idea, measure the screw size using a toothpick. Simply put the toothpick in the mounting holes and mark it.
Then measure the length and compare it to the VESA chart to pick the right size screw for your TV mount.
Measure the VESA pattern
You can figure out the right size screw without checking the user manual as well. Before following the VESA pattern, make sure your TV is using the VESA standard.
Luckily most of the popular TV brands use the VESA standard.
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VESA FDMI Standards
FDMI (Flat Display Mounting Interface ) prefers the minimum screw size required to mount the TV based on its weight.
But the manufacturer can size the crew up if preferred, which still will be VESA compliant.
For example, if you have a 110 pounds TV, you’ll require at least an M6 screw with a 12MM length and pitch of 1.
But if your television is over 110 pounds, you have to use a minimum M8 screw with a 16MM length and pitch of 1.5.
It’s worth remembering, that most TV manufacturers offer longer screws than the minimum requirement.
The screw hole pattern is also crucial consideration in picking the right size screw for the TV mount. Some common hole patterns are:
- 75 mm x 75 mm
- 100 mm x 100 mm
- 200 mm x 200 mm
- 400 mm x 400 mm
How to Measure VESA Pattern
You can easily find the VESA pattern by checking the back of the TV. You should find a minimum of 4 screw holes in there.
Use tape to measure the vertical distance between the top and bottom holes and the horizontal distance between the top two holes.
The resulting number is the VESA pattern of your television.
After getting the VESA pattern, you can then pick the right size screw compared to this VESA chart:
| Screen Size | VESA Pattern | Screw Size |
|---|---|---|
| Under 19 inches | 75mm x 75mm | M4 |
| 19-22 | 100mm x 100mm | M4 |
| 30-40 | 200mm x 200mm | M6 |
| 40-88 | 400mm x 400mm (minimum) | M8 |
Factors Influencing Screw Size Selection for a TV Mount
Assessing TV Size and Weight
The size and weight of your TV are crucial. Light TVs may need M4 or M5 screws. Heavier TVs might require M6, M8, or M10 screws.
Evaluating TV Mount Specifications
Different mount types and models require specific screw sizes. Always check the mount’s manual for the correct screw size.
Wall Characteristics
The wall material and thickness can influence the screw size. For instance, mounting on concrete or brick walls might require larger screws.
Importance of Load Capacity
The mount’s load capacity is vital. Ensure the screws can support the weight of the TV and mount combined.
Determining Screw Dimensions
The length and diameter of the screw are important. They should match the depth and width of the holes on your TV and mount.
Prioritizing Safety
Safety is paramount. Using the wrong screw size can damage your TV or cause it to fall.
Installation and Accessibility
Consider how easy it is to install the screws. Some screws might require specific tools for installation.
Availability of Screws
Ensure the screws are readily available for replacement if needed. Some screw types might be harder to find in certain regions.
Mounting Bracket and Screw Compatibility
The mounting bracket must be compatible with the screws. Always check the bracket’s manual for screw compatibility.
Environmental Durability
Environmental factors like humidity can affect the screws’ durability. Choose screws made of materials that can withstand these conditions.
Tools You Need for Wall Mounts
If the TV manufacturer doesn’t offer any mount kit in the packaging, use these tools to mount your TV appropriately:
Tools require:
- Power drill
- Wall anchors
- Screwdriver
- Masking tape
- Bubble level
- Measuring tape
- Stud finder
You’ll find all of these tools handy; however, a stud finder, wall anchors, and a bubble level are vital.
You can keep the newly mounted television firmly stable in place using wall anchors. It will also prevent the wall from cracking due to the weight of the TV.
A stud finder will help discover the right place to mount the TV and avoid damaging the electrical wiring behind a wall.
Bubble level, on the other hand, ensures an even build. It means the television will remain straight vertically and horizontally.
FAQs
What Size Screws For LG TV?
M6 screws are compatible with most LG TVs. LG televisions are suitable for convenient mounting. Therefore M4 screws are universally compatible with LG TVs.
What Size Screws For SONY TV?
The M8 screw is the most preferable size for Sony TV wall mounts. But the screen of your Sony TV is smaller than 22 inches; you have to use an M4 screw. You can also use a universal wall mounting kit if want to go based on the guesswork.
How does the type and model of TV mount affect the choice of screw size?
Different mounts have varying design structures, which require suitable screws to ensure proper fitting and support.
Why do we need to consider the wall material when selecting a screw for a TV mount?
Wall material affects the stability and strength of the mounting, thus impacting the screw size needed to secure the TV mount safely.
Does the screw length and diameter matter in selecting the right screw for a TV mount?
Yes, correct screw length and diameter are crucial to ensure that the mount is firmly and safely attached to the wall.
Can environmental factors influence the selection of screw size for a TV mount?
Yes, environmental factors like humidity can affect the screw’s integrity and may require a specific size or material to maintain durability.
Is it necessary to consult the TV and mount manuals for screw size?
Yes, consulting manuals is essential as they provide specific recommendations for screw sizes, ensuring a correct and safe installation.
Final words
Understanding what size screw for the TV mount is crucial for both the safety of the TV and enjoying the perfect view.
In most cases, the M6 screw is perfect for small to medium size TV while M8 is preferable for plasma or a curved-screen TV.
Despite this, you have plenty of ways to determine the right size crew for your TV mount regardless of its screen size and brand.
Still, if you are confused, hire a professional instead of damaging the TV.
