One of the issues we run into the most is mounting a TV over a fireplace where the fireplace has been framed “incorrectly” for this to make this easily possible. Most TV mounts on the market are created to fit on studs that are 16″ or 20″ on center spaced apart. To be able to mount these, a correctly framed fireplace is essential.
Incorrectly framed fireplaces
We often run into the situation where the fireplace has been framed with a stud in the center of the fireplace.
Incorrectly framed fireplace mantel
This presents a problem for most TV mounts as we won’t be able to put that mount in the center of the fireplace as most TV mounts do not have the ability to be mounted on a single stud, or in case of a 65″ TV or larger should not be mounted on just a single stud for safety reasons. In addition to that, this does not allow us to put a pull-down TV mount above the fireplace either as they require the center of the fireplace to be cut open to recess the mount into the wall. With a center stud there, this makes this a lot harder and more expensive for the homeowner.
Correctly framed fireplaces
A correctly framed fireplace suited for easy TV mounting is one where the center of the fireplace is left open, and there are 2 studs spaced 16″ on center apart offset from the center.
This frame setup allows us to safely mount a TV, as well as give us the option to mount a Pull Down TV mount on this fireplace without running into any issues. Not only will this make for a much safer installation, it’ll also be a cheaper installation for the homeowner.
