Quick Summary:
Choosing a TV mount for your outdoor space is simpler than you think! Look for weather-resistant, secure mounts that fit your TV size and desired viewing angle. Proper installation ensures a stunning, enjoyable outdoor entertainment experience.
Dreaming of watching your favorite shows or cheering on your team under the open sky? An outdoor TV setup can be a game-changer for backyard gatherings and relaxing evenings. But the thought of exposing electronics to the elements can be daunting. And finding the right spot to hang your TV? That’s where a good TV mount for outdoor use comes in, turning a potential problem into a fabulous feature. Don’t worry, we’ll walk through it step-by-step, making your outdoor viewing dreams a beautifully mounted reality!
Why You Need a Dedicated Outdoor TV Mount
Bringing your TV outdoors opens up a whole new world of entertainment possibilities. Imagine movie nights in the backyard, Super Bowl parties with friends on the patio, or simply enjoying a cooking show while you grill. It’s exciting, right? But here’s the thing: your regular indoor TV mount just won’t cut it.
Outdoor environments are tough on electronics. Sunshine, rain, wind, humidity, and even bugs and dust pose serious threats to both your television and its mounting hardware. That’s why using a mount specifically designed for outdoor use isn’t just a good idea – it’s essential for safety, durability, and getting that stunning look you’re going for.
An outdoor TV mount is built with materials that can withstand rust and corrosion. It’s designed to be secure against winds and to hold your TV at an angle that can reduce glare from the sun. Plus, a well-chosen mount contributes to a clean, integrated look for your outdoor living space, making it feel less like an afterthought and more like a stylish extension of your home.
Types of Outdoor TV Mounts
Just like indoor mounts, outdoor TV mounts come in a few different styles. Each offers unique benefits depending on where you plan to install it and how you want to position your TV. Understanding these types is your first step to finding the perfect fit.
Fixed Mounts
These are the simplest and often the most affordable outdoor mounts. As the name suggests, they hold your TV flat against the wall with very little space between the TV and the surface. They offer a clean, streamlined look, like a piece of art on your wall.
- Pros: Minimal profile, very secure, generally less expensive, good for reducing glare when the sun is directly behind the TV.
- Cons: No adjustability for viewing angles, can make accessing the back of the TV difficult.
Tilting Mounts
Tilting mounts allow you to adjust your TV to tilt downwards. This is incredibly useful for outdoor viewing, especially if your TV is mounted higher up on a wall or patio cover. It helps direct the picture towards your viewers and can be a lifesaver for reducing sun glare during different times of the day.
- Pros: Adjustable for better viewing angles, helps reduce glare, good for mounting TVs higher up.
- Cons: Slightly bulkier than fixed mounts, can still be limited in movement compared to full-motion mounts.
Full-Motion (Articulating) Mounts
These mounts offer the most flexibility. They can typically extend from the wall, swivel side-to-side, and tilt up and down. This means you can position your TV perfectly for any viewing spot, adjust for optimal sun angles throughout the day, and even pull it out for easier access when needed. They are often the most robust and can be the most expensive option.
- Pros: Maximum adjustability, ideal for multiple viewing angles and locations, allows for easy access to the back of the TV.
- Cons: Can be more complex to install, may extend further from the wall (potentially more susceptible to wind if not properly secured), usually the most expensive.
Cantilever Mounts
These are a subtype of full-motion mounts, characterized by a cantilever arm. They often extend further from the wall and can be particularly good for corner installations or situations where you need to pull the TV out a significant distance. They offer excellent flexibility but require extremely sturdy mounting surfaces.
- Pros: Great reach and articulation, suitable for corners and extending TVs far from the wall.
- Cons: Can be heavy-duty, requires a very strong mounting surface, typically the most expensive and complex.
What to Look for in an Outdoor TV Mount: Staying Safe and Gorgeous
Selecting an outdoor TV mount isn’t just about picking one that looks nice. You need something that can stand up to the elements and securely hold your valuable television. Here are the key features to keep an eye out for:
Weather Resistance and Durability
This is paramount. Look for mounts made from materials like heavy-duty steel or aluminum, often with rust-resistant coatings such as powder coating or galvanization. Stainless steel is also an excellent, though pricier, option. The mount should be designed to prevent corrosion from rain, humidity, and salt air (if you live near the coast).
Weight Capacity and TV Size Compatibility
Every mount has a maximum weight it can safely support. Your TV’s weight needs to be well within this limit. Compatibility also extends to the VESA mounting pattern – the standardized spacing of the mounting holes on the back of your TV. Most mounts will list the VESA sizes they support (e.g., 200x200mm, 400x400mm). Check your TV’s manual or specifications to find its VESA pattern and weight.
Strength and Stability
Outdoor mounts need to be robust. They should feel solid and not allow for excessive wobbling. Consider the construction – thicker gauge metal and strong joints are good indicators of quality. If you live in an area with high winds, a sturdier mount with a lower profile might be a better choice.
Extension and Articulation Features
Do you want to tilt the screen to reduce glare? Swivel it to face different seating areas? Extend it from the wall? Match the mount’s capabilities to your viewing needs. Full-motion mounts offer the most versatility, while fixed mounts are best for a simple, secure hold.
Ease of Installation
While some mounts are easier to install than others, look for clear instructions and all necessary hardware (though you may need to purchase specific wall anchors depending on your mounting surface). If you’re not comfortable with DIY projects involving tools, factor in the cost of professional installation.
Security Features
Many mounts include security locks or cables to prevent the TV from being accidentally dislodged, which is especially important in windy conditions or in areas with children or pets. These features add an extra layer of peace of mind.
The All-Important Installation: Making Your Outdoor TV Stunning and Secure
Installing an outdoor TV mount is a bit more involved than hanging a picture frame. Safety and a strong, stable mounting surface are your top priorities. This is where your handyman skills (or a hired professional) will shine!
Choosing the Right Location
Think about where you’ll be watching TV most.
- Sunlight: Try to position your TV where it won’t get direct sunlight for extended periods, especially during the hours you’ll be watching. Overhangs, pergolas, or shaded patio corners are ideal. If glare is unavoidable, a tilting or full-motion mount becomes even more crucial.
- Viewing Distance: Ensure the spot allows for comfortable viewing from your main seating area.
- Power: You’ll need access to a weatherproof power outlet. Consider running an outdoor-rated extension cord or having an electrician install a permanent outdoor outlet. For ultimate protection, a weatherproof outdoor outlet is the safest bet.
- Mounting Surface: This is critical. Ideally, you’ll mount your TV to a sturdy, load-bearing structure like solid wood or concrete. Avoid mounting on thin siding, flimsy fences, or materials that aren’t designed to hold significant weight.
Gathering Your Tools and Materials
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need.
- Your chosen outdoor TV mount
- The TV you plan to mount
- A stud finder (if mounting on a wood-framed wall)
- A drill with appropriate drill bits
- A level
- A socket wrench set
- A tape measure
- Screwdrivers
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Depending on your mounting surface: Lag bolts for wood studs, concrete anchors (e.g., wedge anchors, sleeve anchors) for masonry, or specific fasteners for metal studs. Always ensure these are rated for the weight of your TV and mount and are suitable for outdoor use.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Here’s a general guide. Always refer to your specific mount’s instructions!
- Locate Studs or Mounting Points: If mounting on a wall with wood studs, use a stud finder to locate the center of at least two studs where you plan to attach the mount’s wall plate. For concrete or brick, you’ll be drilling directly into the masonry. Mark your desired height.
- Measure and Mark: Hold the mount’s wall plate against the wall at your marked height. Use a level to ensure it’s perfectly straight. Mark the drill holes through the plate onto the wall.
- Pre-Drill Pilot Holes: Using a drill bit recommended by the mount manufacturer and appropriate for your wall material, drill pilot holes at your marked locations. For wood studs, a pilot hole slightly smaller than the lag bolt is sufficient. For concrete, use a masonry bit and ensure the hole is the correct diameter and depth for your chosen anchors.
- Secure the Wall Plate: Attach the mount’s wall plate to the wall using the appropriate heavy-duty lag bolts (for wood studs) or concrete anchors (for masonry). Make sure these are rated for significant weight and are outdoor-compatible. Tighten them securely with your wrench. Double-check that the plate is still level and firmly attached.
- Attach Brackets to TV: Most mounts come with brackets that attach to the back of your TV. These typically screw into the VESA mounting holes. Ensure you use the correct screws (often included with the mount, or sometimes with the TV) and that they are snug but don’t overtighten.
- Hang the TV: This is often a two-person job! Carefully lift the TV and hook the brackets onto the wall plate according to your mount’s design. Many TV mounts have a latching mechanism to secure the TV to the plate.
- Connect Cables and Secure: Connect your HDMI cables, power cords, and any other necessary wiring. Ensure all cables are neatly managed and secured, ideally routed through sleeves or clips to protect them from the elements and prevent tripping hazards.
- Test and Adjust: Once the TV is hung and cables are connected, gently test the mount’s articulation (if applicable). Make sure the TV is stable and secure. Adjust the tilt or swivel as needed for optimal viewing.
Remember, if you are mounting to anything other than a solid wood stud or concrete, such as a brick wall or metal studs, it’s crucial to use the correct fasteners designed for those materials and to ensure the structure can bear the load. For these situations, consulting with a professional installer or a structural engineer is highly recommended.
Enhancing Your Outdoor Viewing Experience with Accessories
Once your TV is securely mounted, you’ll want to make sure your entire outdoor viewing experience is as enjoyable and protected as possible. A few smart accessories can make a big difference.
Outdoor TVs and Covers
While a good outdoor mount is crucial, the ultimate protection for your screen comes from an outdoor-rated TV. These TVs are built to withstand a wider range of temperatures and humidity and have anti-glare screens. If you’re using an indoor TV outdoors (which is generally not recommended due to warranty voiding and durability issues), a dedicated outdoor TV cover is absolutely essential. A good cover protects against dust, moisture, and UV damage when the TV is not in use. TechRadar has some great reviews on outdoor TVs.
Weatherproof Cables and Connectors
Standard cables are not designed for outdoor use. Invest in weatherproof HDMI cables, extension cords, and surge protectors. Many outdoor mounts also have integrated cable management systems to keep everything tidy and protected.
Outdoor Audio Solutions
The built-in speakers on most TVs aren’t powerful enough to overcome outdoor ambient noise. Consider outdoor-rated soundbars or Bluetooth speakers to enhance your audio experience. Ensure any connected devices are also protected from the elements.
Mount Enclosures
Some specialized mounts come with or have optional enclosures that further protect the TV from extreme weather, dust, and even pests. These can add an extra layer of security and durability.
Comparing Popular Outdoor TV Mount Features
To help you visualize your options, here’s a comparison of typical features you’ll find. Because models vary greatly, this serves as a general guide.
| Feature | Fixed Mount | Tilting Mount | Full-Motion Mount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Profile from Wall | Lowest | Low to Medium | Medium to Highest (when extended) |
| Adjustability | None | Vertical Tilt | Tilt, Swivel, Extension |
| Max Weight Capacity (Typical) | Up to 150 lbs | Up to 150 lbs | Up to 150 lbs |
| Best For | Simple, secure mounting; shaded areas. | Reducing glare; mounting higher up. | Flexible viewing angles; varied seating. |
| Installation Complexity | Easiest | Easy to Moderate | Moderate to Difficult |
| Price Range (Estimate) | $$ | $$ – $$$ | $$$ – $$$$ |
When choosing, always verify the specific weight capacity and VESA compatibility listed for the model you are considering against your TV’s specifications. Don’t just assume! Resources like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offer general safety advice on TV mounting, which is always a good read before any installation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor TV Mounts
Q1: Can I use a regular indoor TV mount outside?
It’s highly discouraged. Indoor mounts are not made with weather-resistant materials, so they will likely rust and corrode quickly. They also might not be strong enough to withstand outdoor conditions like wind, and using an indoor mount can void your TV’s warranty.
Q2: How do I protect my outdoor TV and mount from the elements?
Use a TV specifically rated for outdoor use, if possible. If using an indoor TV (again, not recommended), a high-quality, waterproof TV cover is essential when the TV is off. Ensure your mount is also constructed from weatherproof materials like powder-coated steel or aluminum. Proper installation in a sheltered area (like under an awning) also helps.
Q3: What kind of bolts should I use to mount my TV outdoors?
The type of bolt depends on your mounting surface. For wood studs, use heavy-duty outdoor-rated lag bolts. For concrete or brick, use appropriate concrete anchors (like wedge anchors) that are rated for the weight. Always ensure your fasteners are specifically designed for outdoor use and are robust enough for the combined weight of the TV and outdoor mount.
Q4: How much weight can an outdoor TV mount hold?
Weight capacities vary by mount model. Most standard outdoor mounts can hold TVs up to 80-100 lbs, but some heavy-duty models can support more. Always check the mount’s specifications and ensure your TV’s weight is well below the maximum capacity for safety.
Q5: Will the sun damage my TV if I mount it outdoors?
Direct sunlight can cause screens to overheat, damage internal components, and create significant glare that makes viewing difficult. Mounting your TV in a shaded area or under an overhang is best. If glare is an issue, a tilting or full-motion mount that allows you to angle the screen away from the sun is crucial.
Q6: Is professional installation necessary for outdoor TV mounts?
While many DIY-savvy individuals can install them, professional installation is recommended if you’re unsure about locating studs, using the correct anchors for your wall type, or if you have a very large or heavy TV. Professional installers ensure the mount is secure and safely attached, preventing accidents.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Elevated Outdoor Entertainment
