Mounting a TV over a fireplace can be a great way to save space and create a focal point in your living room. However, it’s important to consider the safety and practicality of this installation. According to The Spruce, it’s generally not safe to mount a TV over a wood-burning fireplace due to the high heat and smoke created by wood fires. Any heat and smoke that’s not vented up the chimney will stream over the mantel and around the TV, resulting in damage to the electronics 1.
If you’re still interested in mounting your TV over the fireplace, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Check the manual: Consult your TV manual for how high the TV should be mounted over a fireplace. The manual also should include the best viewing angle and the distance you should maintain from the screen. Typically, the center of the screen should be at eye level when you are sitting and facing the screen 1.
Purchasing the right mount for your new television can be confusing. You need to know where you are hanging the TV and what is behind the wall. Can it support the weight of the tv and mount? Most TV Mounts come with various sizes of bolts and Lag Bolts. You want to make sure your bracket can support 16″ center. Not all buildings use 16″ center so finding that stud can be problematic. There are mounts that support 16″, 24″ and 36″.
Tilting Wall Mounts can be used when the tv location is above the eye line. It really depends on the size of the room. You want to be able to sit comfortably while watching.
Flat Mounts can keep the tv close to the wall. Great for flat screens that perform as artwork when not in use and functional when watching Television programs.
Articulated Mounts. Open Concept living room and kitchen and recreation rooms. Swing the tv to be able to watch from different angles.
