
This article will let you know all the tools and their uses required to mount a TV on the wall. You can use this as a checklist before you start mounting your TV.
When I decided to mount my new TV, I only had some of the required tools. I did not have a drill and suitable drill bits. I heard a drilling sound from my neighbor’s home a week ago. So, instead of buying a new one, I borrowed from them for an hour. This helped me save a few bucks.
The most important tool you can have is a plan! Before you begin to mount your TV, you’ll need a plan for where you want to mount it, a method for how to mount it, and a suitable mount that meets your needs. Bear in mind that TVs can be heavy – you may need more than one person to secure your TV to the wall properly.
Tape Measure
A tape measure helps you to measure things when mounting your TV. It helps you find the right height for the mount and checks the distance between the wall studs. In addition, it will also make sure everything is centered for a better viewing experience.
Pencil
You’ll want a pencil to mark the exact spots where you need to drill or position the mounting bracket. Pencil marks can be erased if necessary, so they are much better for marking your walls than a pen. Use a pencil with a fine tip for precise markings that won’t be too visible.
Stud Finder

A stud finder is used to locate the wooden studs behind your wall’s surface. Studs are the strongest areas to attach your TV mount. By finding and marking these studs, you can avoid mounting your TV on weak spots.
Common types of stud finders available are magnetic and electronic. Magnetic stud finders detect the metal nails or screws in the studs, and electronic stud finders use sensors to detect changes in the wall’s density.
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Drywall Anchors
Drywall anchors are plastic or metal sleeves that can be inserted into the drywall. If you plan to mount a TV on a wall without studs, drywall anchors are required. You’ll want to check that the type of drywall anchor you use is rated for a heavier load. Drywall anchors provide more support and are suitable for clamping mounts on weaker surfaces.
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Drill and Drill Bits

A drill creates the necessary holes in the wall to attach the TV mount. Be sure to choose the drill bits suitable for your wall’s material. Drill bits come in various sizes and they are measured in inches or millimeters.
You’ll need a drill bit one size smaller than the screw you plan to use to drill a pilot hole in the stud. This prevents the screw from slipping out and ensures a secure hold. For example, if you are using a 1/4-inch screw, a 3/16-inch drill bit would be appropriate.
See Related: How to Drill a Hole in Drywall
Level
You’ll need a level to ensure your TV wall mount is straight. This tool helps you check that your TV and the mounting bracket are properly aligned.
You have a few options for levels. A bubble level has a liquid-filled tube with an air bubble that shows if something is straight. A laser level projects a straight beam of light, which is great for longer distances. You can use your smartphone if you don’t have a level handy. There are level apps that utilize your phone’s accelerometer to measure angles accurately.
Wrenches and Sockets
Wrenches and sockets are crucial for tightening nuts and bolts when mounting a TV. Here’s a breakdown of the different types and when you might need each one:
Tool | Description | When to Use |
Standard Wrench | A fixed-size tool designed to grip and turn nuts and bolts by the sides, ideal for adjusting and tightening the TV mount hardware. | For simple tasks involving a single size of nut or bolt. |
Adjustable Wrench | A wrench with a movable jaw that adapts to various sizes of nuts and bolts, useful for adjusting the tightness of the TV mounting bracket. | When dealing with multiple sizes of nuts and bolts without changing tools. |
Socket Wrench | A ratcheting tool with detachable sockets, used for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts on the TV mount. | Best for tightening bolts in confined or hard-to-reach areas. |
Torque Wrench | A specialized wrench that applies a specific amount of torque, ensuring the TV mount is secured to the manufacturer’s specifications. | When precise torque application is required for mounting hardware. |
Pilers | A tool with jaws and handles for gripping, bending, or turning small nuts and bolts, useful for cable management and minor adjustments. | For gripping and turning small or irregularly shaped nuts and bolts. |
Screws and Screwdriver

Screws are almost always necessary for connecting the TV mount to the wall securely. Choose screws that are compatible with both the mount and the wall surface to ensure a stable installation.
Common types include Phillips head and flathead screwdrivers. Check the screw heads before starting to make sure you have the correct screwdriver. In general, manual screwdrivers are commonly used for this task. You can also use a power drill or a power driver with the appropriate driver bits. With the correct bit size and type, you can prevent stripping the screw heads.
Additional Reading:
- How Long Does it Take to Mount a TV?
- TV Stand vs. Wall Mount: Which is Right for You?
- Can You Mount Any TV?
- How to Mount a TV in a Corner
- How to Remove a TV from a Wall Mount
- How to Hide TV Wires
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