In this article
Most DIY mounting problems start with a missing tool: no level, so the TV is crooked; no pilot bit, so the stud splits; the wrong anchor for the wall, so the mount sags. Here's the full list, by wall type.
The basics (every wall)
| Tool | Why |
|---|---|
| Stud finder (deep scan) | Locate studs and avoid pipes and wires |
| Level, 24–48 in | A 12-inch torpedo level isn't accurate across a TV |
| Tape measure + pencil | Height, center line, stud centers |
| Painter's tape | Outline the TV, mark holes, protect paint |
| Drill-driver | Pilot holes, driving screws |
| Socket wrench, 1/2 in | Driving lag bolts — snug, not crushing |
| Phillips #2 and #3 screwdrivers | VESA screws on the TV |
| A second person | Lifting anything over 50 inches |
Wood studs
- 3/16-inch drill bit for 5/16-inch lag bolts
- A small finish nail to confirm the stud center
- The lag bolts from the mount box are usually fine
Concrete, block, brick
- Hammer drill and carbide masonry bits (size per anchor, often 3/8 in)
- Sleeve or wedge anchors — not the plastic plugs in the mount box
- Shop vac or dust collection at the bit
- More: how to mount a TV on concrete
Metal studs
- Magnet to trace the screws
- Snap-toggle anchors rated for the load
- Bit sized for the toggle channel (often 1/2 in)
- More: mounting on metal studs
Plaster and lath
- Carbide bit, hammer off, painter's tape over every hole
- Finding studs behind plaster
Hiding the cables
- In-wall power kit, drywall saw, fish tape, low-voltage brackets
- Or a paintable raceway, utility knife and a miter box for clean corners
- Planning: hiding TV wires in the wall and the wire concealment planner
Safety
- Safety glasses (masonry dust, falling plaster)
- Check for electrical wires and pipes before drilling — a deep-scan finder with AC detection
- Never stand the TV on its edge unattended
Our DIY mounting wizard builds a checklist for your TV, wall and mount type, and tells you honestly when it's a two-person or pro job.
Rather have a pro do it?
Exact price in about a minute — TV size, wall type and cables included. Same-day in most areas, 3-year warranty on every install.
Rather not buy a hammer drill for four holes? Installation starts at $119 and every tool above comes with us.
Gear mentioned in this article
Franklin Sensors ProSensor M210 13-Sensor Stud Finder, Live Wire DetectionStud finder: locates the framing behind the drywall.Check price →
Swanson 9” Die Cast Aluminum Torpedo Level with Rare Earth Magnetics TL002MLevel: gets the bracket straight on the first try.Check price →
Prime-Line 9056277 Hex Lag ScrewsLag bolts for wood studs.Check price →
Hillman Sleeve Anchors, 3/8in x 3in, 50 Pack, ZincSleeve anchors for brick, block and concrete.Check price →
CondoMounts MSK8001 Steel Stud TV Mounting KitAnchors made for steel studs.Check price →
Klein Tools 56335 25-Foot x 1/4-Inch Flat Electrical Fish Tape, SteelFish tape or glow rods: pulls cable through a stud bay.Check price →
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