TV Mounted Too High: The Most Common TV Mounting Mistake

You mount your TV on the wall and end up tilting your neck upward to watch it comfortably. The TV is mounted too high, and the viewing angle is uncomfortable for extended watching. TV mounted too high is one of the most common TV mounting mistakes, and it causes neck strain and reduces the viewing experience. Understanding the correct TV mounting height and the factors that influence it helps you get a comfortable, ergonomic installation.

In Chicago homes, TV mounting height varies widely, from fireplace-mounted TVs that are too high to properly positioned TVs at eye level. Chicago’s diverse home styles feature various wall configurations, and understanding the specific guidelines for TV mounting height helps you plan the right setup for comfortable viewing.

Quick Answer: How High Should I Mount My TV?

The center of the TV should be at eye level when seated, typically 42 to 48 inches from the floor to the center of the screen. For a 55-inch TV, the bottom of the screen should be approximately 25 to 35 inches from the floor. Adjust the height based on your seating position, room layout, and personal preference.

TV Mounting Height Guidelines

Eye level when seated. The center of the TV should be at eye level when seated in the primary viewing position. For most people, this is 42 to 48 inches from the floor to the center of the screen.

TV size considerations. Larger TVs require slightly lower mounting to keep the center at eye level. For a 55-inch TV, the center is approximately 27 inches from the bottom of the screen. For a 65-inch TV, the center is approximately 32 inches from the bottom.

Seating height. The height of your seating (couch, chair, recliner) affects the ideal TV mounting height. Lower seating requires lower TV mounting, and higher seating requires higher TV mounting.

Viewing distance. The viewing distance also affects the ideal TV mounting height. Closer viewing distances require the TV to be closer to eye level, while farther viewing distances allow for slightly higher mounting.

Room layout. The room layout (fireplace, furniture, etc.) can affect the TV mounting height. Consider the room layout when selecting the mounting height to ensure comfortable viewing.

Common TV Mounting Height Mistakes

Fireplace mounting. Mounting the TV above the fireplace is a common mistake that results in the TV being too high. Fireplace-mounted TVs require significant neck tilting and cause discomfort during extended viewing.

Standing height mounting. Mounting the TV at standing height is another common mistake. TVs are primarily watched while seated, so mounting at standing height results in the TV being too high for comfortable viewing.

Ignoring seating position. Failing to consider the primary seating position when selecting the mounting height is a common mistake. The TV should be mounted at eye level when seated in the primary viewing position.

Ignoring TV size. Failing to consider the TV size when selecting the mounting height is another common mistake. Larger TVs require lower mounting to keep the center at eye level.

Fixing TV Mounted Too High

Remount the TV lower. The best solution for a TV mounted too high is to remount it at the correct height. This approach requires removing the existing mount and installing a new one at the proper height.

Use a tilting mount. If remounting is not an option, a tilting mount allows the TV to be tilted downward for more comfortable viewing. Tilting mounts are a good compromise when remounting is not possible.

Use a full-motion mount. A full-motion mount allows the TV to be tilted and extended for more comfortable viewing. Full-motion mounts provide the most flexibility for adjusting the viewing angle.

Adjust the seating. If remounting is not an option, consider adjusting the seating position (higher seating, footrests, etc.) to improve the viewing angle.

Chicago-Specific Considerations

Fireplace walls. Chicago’s older homes often have prominent fireplaces, and mounting the TV above the fireplace is a common temptation. Resist the temptation and mount the TV at eye level for comfortable viewing.

High ceilings. Chicago’s newer condos and lofts often have high ceilings, which can make it tempting to mount the TV higher. Mount the TV at eye level when seated, regardless of ceiling height.

Professional assessment. For complex room layouts, professional assessment ensures the TV is mounted at the correct height for comfortable viewing.

What Is Included in Our TV Mounting Service

• Complete wall assessment and stud or anchor point identification.
• TV mount installation with appropriate hardware for your wall type.
• TV attachment, leveling, and safety cable installation.
• Basic cable management: routing, securing, and organizing visible cables.
• Testing all connections to ensure the TV powers on and displays correctly.
• Remote pairing verification and basic troubleshooting.
• Cleanup of the work area, including vacuuming dust and removing all tools and debris.

When TV Height Adjustment Requires Specialized Help

• Fireplace mounting. If you must mount the TV above the fireplace, professional assessment and tilting mount installation is recommended.
• Remounting. If the TV is already mounted too high, professional remounting at the correct height ensures safe, secure installation.
• Complex room layouts. For complex room layouts, professional assessment ensures the TV is mounted at the correct height.

Our TV Mounting Process

Step 1: Pre-installation consultation.
We discuss your TV size, wall type, seating position, and desired mount height. We advise on the correct mounting height for comfortable viewing.

Step 2: Wall assessment.
On the day of installation, we assess the wall type, seating position, and room layout. We locate studs or appropriate anchor points and verify the wall can safely support your TV.

Step 3: Mount installation.
We install the TV mount using the correct hardware for your wall type, ensure it is level and securely attached, and verify the anchor holding strength.

Step 4: TV attachment and cable management.
Your TV is attached to the mount, all cables are connected and organized, and the TV is tested to ensure everything works correctly.

Step 5: Final inspection and cleanup.
We verify the TV is level, all connections are secure, the remote is paired and functional, and the work area is clean.

Pricing Factors

• TV size and weight. Larger, heavier TVs require more robust mounts and anchors.
• Wall type. Drywall is standard. Plaster, brick, stone, and concrete require specialized tools and anchors.
• Mount height. TV mounting at the correct height may require additional planning and mount selection.
• Cable management. Basic cable organization is included. In-wall concealment is an add-on.
• Additional services. Soundbar mounting, AV equipment integration, and remounting are separate services.

FAQ: TV Mounted Too High

Q: How high should I mount my TV?
A: The center of the TV should be at eye level when seated, typically 42 to 48 inches from the floor to the center of the screen.

Q: Is mounting the TV above the fireplace a good idea?
A: No. Mounting the TV above the fireplace typically results in the TV being too high for comfortable viewing. Consider mounting the TV on a different wall or using a tilting mount.

Q: Can I fix a TV that is mounted too high?
A: Yes. The best solution is to remount the TV at the correct height. Alternatively, use a tilting or full-motion mount to adjust the viewing angle.

Q: How do I measure the correct TV mounting height?
A: Sit in the primary viewing position and measure your eye level from the floor. The center of the TV should be at this height.

Q: Will you mount my TV at the correct height?
A: Yes. We assess your seating position and room layout during the consultation and mount the TV at the correct height for comfortable viewing.

Q: How much does remounting a TV cost?
A: Remounting a TV typically costs $100 to $200, including patching the old mount holes and installing the new mount at the correct height.

Mount Your TV at the Right Height

TV mounting height is critical for comfortable viewing, and mounting the TV at eye level when seated ensures the best viewing experience. Avoid the common mistake of mounting the TV too high, and let us help with the assessment and installation.

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