Hiding TV Mount (4 Clever Tricks to Keep It Out of Sight!)

Increasing Your Home’s Resale Value with Discreet TV Mounting

Do you ever walk into your living room, see that bulky TV mount sticking out like a sore thumb, and wish it could just disappear? You’re not alone. Many homeowners, including myself, have faced this common dilemma. It might surprise you to learn that hiding your TV mount can actually enhance your home’s resale value. How, you ask? A clean, seamless look is something buyers love, and it can make your living space appear more polished and spacious. So let’s dive into four clever tricks I’ve discovered to keep that mount out of sight!

Trick 1: Recessed Wall Mounting

Recessing your TV into the wall might sound like a major undertaking, but with some planning and effort, it’s quite achievable. This method not only hides the mount but gives your TV a sleek, built-in look that makes it seem like part of the wall itself.

Steps to Recessed Wall Mounting:

1. Select the Right Spot:
   The first thing you need to do is find a suitable wall. Look for one without plumbing or electrical wires that might interfere with the installation. You don’t want to accidentally cut into something important! Use a stud finder to locate safe areas. I remember the first time I did this; I was so nervous about cutting into the wrong spot. But with a little patience and the right tools, it went smoothly.
2. Plan the Layout:
   Before cutting, make sure you know exactly where everything will go. Measure twice, cut once, as they say! Sketch a rough diagram of the layout, including any additional components like soundbars or gaming consoles.
3. Mark and Cut the Drywall:
   Once you have everything planned out, outline the TV’s dimensions on the wall and cut the drywall carefully using a saw. Make sure you’re cutting between the studs! This step can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first time handling power tools. Just take it slow and steady.
4. Install Support Brackets:
   Use 2×4 lumber to create support brackets inside the wall cavity. These will hold your TV mount securely. When I did this for a friend’s house, we spent a good afternoon just cutting and measuring wood. It’s crucial to ensure these brackets are level and firmly installed.
5. Mount the TV:
   Attach the TV mount to the support brackets and hang your TV. Double-check everything for stability. It’s always a good idea to have someone help you with this part—TVs can be heavy, and an extra pair of hands makes all the difference.
6. Finish with Trim:
   To give it a professional look, add some trim around the edges of the recess. This hides any rough edges and adds to the built-in aesthetic.

Warnings:

• Check local building codes before you start to ensure compliance.
• Be aware of hidden utilities in the wall to avoid accidents. This is critical because hitting a water pipe or electrical wire can lead to costly repairs.
• Ensure proper ventilation behind the TV to prevent overheating. Leave some space for air circulation.

Things You Should Know:

• This method requires moderate DIY skills and some carpentry tools. If you’re not handy with tools or unsure about your abilities, consider hiring a professional.
• It provides a permanent, seamless look that can significantly boost your home’s appeal.
• Costs can vary depending on materials and whether you hire help, but it’s generally affordable for most budgets.

Trick 2: Art Cover-Up

Why not use art to camouflage your TV? A sliding or hinge-mounted art piece can be both functional and decorative. This is one of my favorite solutions because it combines practicality with aesthetics.

Steps for Art Cover-Up:

1. Choose Your Art:
   Pick a piece of art that complements your room’s style. It should be large enough to cover the TV completely but not so heavy that it becomes difficult to move. When I chose art for my own home, I went with a vibrant abstract piece that matched my sofa cushions—it’s now a conversation starter whenever I have guests!
2. Install a Rail or Hinges:
   If you prefer sliding art, install a rail system above the TV. For hinged art, install robust hinges on one side of the frame. This step requires precision; make sure everything is level so the art moves smoothly.
3. Attach Art to Mechanism:
   Securely attach your chosen art piece to the rail or hinges. Use appropriate hardware that can support the weight of the frame.
4. Test the Movement:
   Ensure the art moves smoothly over or away from the TV without wobbling or sticking. You may need to make adjustments here, so don’t rush this step.
5. Consider Remote Control Options:
   For those who love gadgets, consider installing a motorized system that allows you to move the art remotely. It’s a bit more complex but adds a high-tech flair that impresses visitors.

Warnings:

• Ensure the mechanism can handle the weight of the art without sagging or falling unexpectedly.
• Avoid using extremely heavy frames to prevent accidents or damage to walls.
• Regularly check for any wear and tear in the moving parts and tighten screws as needed.

Things You Should Know:

• This method allows for artistic expression and can be customized to fit any decor style.
• It’s a versatile option that works well in both modern and traditional homes.
• The cost will depend on the art piece and mechanism chosen but can be kept within budget with DIY options.

Trick 3: Built-In Cabinetry

Creating custom cabinetry around your TV is another fantastic way to conceal the mount while adding extra storage space to your living area. This approach is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Steps for Built-In Cabinetry:

1. Design Your Cabinetry:
   Plan out a design that includes storage space, TV housing, and any additional features you want, such as shelves for books or decorative items. When I designed mine, I made sure there was enough space for my growing collection of vinyl records!
2. Select Materials:
   Choose wood or other materials that match your room’s decor and are sturdy enough to support the TV. Plywood is popular for its durability and ease of use.
3. Build or Install Cabinets:
   If you have carpentry skills, build the cabinets yourself or hire a professional for best results. Ensure everything is level and securely attached to prevent tipping hazards.
4. Mount Your TV Inside:
   Securely attach your TV mount inside the cabinet space and hang the TV. Leave access points for cables and power connections.
5. Add Finishing Touches:
   Consider adding doors or sliding panels to completely hide the TV when not in use. Soft-close hinges can add a touch of luxury.
6. Incorporate Lighting:
   Adding LED strips or downlights inside or around the cabinetry can enhance visibility and add ambiance.

Warnings:

• Ensure cabinets are securely fixed to avoid tipping hazards.
• Leave space for ventilation behind the TV to prevent overheating—this is crucial for maintaining your tech’s longevity.
• Double-check measurements before cutting materials to avoid costly mistakes.

Things You Should Know:

• Adds value by improving room aesthetics and functionality.
• Allows for creative design and layout tailored specifically to your needs.
• While potentially more expensive than other options, this method offers significant storage benefits.

Trick 4: Motorized Lift System

For those who love tech gadgets, a motorized lift system can hide your TV in cabinets or furniture when not in use. This high-tech option provides a major “wow” factor for guests and family alike.

Steps for Motorized Lift System:

1. Purchase a Lift Kit:
   Choose a lift system compatible with your TV size and weight. Some kits even come with remote controls! Make sure you invest in quality products from reputable brands.
2. Select a Furniture Piece:
   Decide on a piece of furniture where you’ll install the lift system, like a cabinet or console table.
3. Install the Lift Mechanism:
   Follow instructions carefully to install the lift within the furniture, ensuring it operates smoothly without hiccups.
4. Attach and Test Your TV:
   Securely attach your TV to the lift mechanism and test its operation several times for reliability and smooth motion.
5. Integrate with Smart Home Systems:
   For advanced users, consider integrating your lift system with smart home devices like Alexa or Google Home for voice control capabilities.
6. Regular Maintenance:
   Periodically check all moving parts and electrical connections for wear and tear to ensure ongoing functionality.

Warnings:

• Ensure electrical connections are safe and compliant with local codes.
• Regularly check lift mechanisms for signs of wear or failure to avoid accidents.
• Be aware of potential power outages which may affect manual operation of the lift.

Things You Should Know:

• This option is high-tech but requires careful installation by someone familiar with electronics.
• Provides an impressive, modern touch to any room that tech enthusiasts will appreciate.
• Costs are higher compared to other methods but offer unparalleled convenience and style.

Additional Tips & Tricks

Using Mirrors

Mirrors can be strategically placed around your TV area to distract from visible mounts or cables. They reflect light and create an illusion of more space, drawing attention away from less aesthetic elements like mounts.

Wall Panels

Decorative wall panels can be installed around your TV area to conceal mounts while adding texture or color to your room’s design scheme.

Fabric Curtains

A simple yet elegant solution—use fabric curtains mounted above or around your TV area as an alternative way of concealing mounts while adding softness through textiles in contrasting hues or patterns that complement existing decor elements such as cushions on sofas nearby!

Practical Tips for Implementation

1. Always have a stud finder on hand for accurate installation points—this tool is indispensable when working with wall-mounted systems!
2. Keep safety gear like goggles and gloves available during construction projects involving power tools—you never know when accidents might happen!
3. If unsure about any method described here today consult professionals who specialize in these types projects avoid costly mistakes down road later on!

4 Consider investing time researching different styles designs before committing one particular approach ensure best results possible given individual preferences tastes needs specific situations at hand!

5 Remember patience key successful execution complex tasks involved achieving seamless integration home entertainment systems living spaces alike over time experience gained invaluable future endeavors similar nature!

FAQ Section

1 Can I install these myself?

Absolutely! With moderate DIY skills many solutions presented here today doable home environment However don’t hesitate call professional assistance needed especially if inexperienced certain aspects involved such electrical wiring cutting large sections drywall etc

2 Will hiding my TV mount affect its functionality?

Nope! As long guidelines followed correctly should function perfectly while looking great addition improved aesthetics overall appearance living space

3 Is expensive hide my TV mount?

Costs vary depending materials complexity involved each project however options exist every budget allowing homeowners achieve desired results without breaking bank unnecessarily

Remember making changes discussed above enhance not only living area but also increase appeal potential buyers future market Happy DIY-ing friends!

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