VESA Screws Too Long: How to Avoid Damaging Your TV Electronics

You install a TV mount and attach your TV with the screws that came in the box. The screws thread in easily, but when you tighten them, you feel the screw bottom out before it is fully secured. You tighten it a little more, and you hear a faint crack from inside the TV. The VESA screws are too long for your TV’s threaded holes — and they may have already damaged the internal electronics.

VESA screws that are too long are one of the most dangerous TV mounting mistakes. The screw tip can penetrate the TV back panel and contact internal circuit boards, power components, or display connectors. In some cases, the damage is immediate — the TV will not turn on. In other cases, the damage is latent — the TV works initially but fails weeks or months later when the short circuit develops. In Chicago, we see this problem regularly with DIY installations, especially on newer ultra-thin TV models.

Quick Answer: How Do I Know If My VESA Screws Are Too Long?

Check your TV manual for the recommended VESA screw length. Most TVs specify a maximum screw length — typically 7mm to 12mm depending on the TV size. If the screws you are using exceed this length, they are too long. If the screw bottoms out (stops threading) before the head is flush with the mount bracket, the screw is too long. Replace with shorter screws or add spacers to take up the excess length.

Why VESA Screw Length Matters

The threaded holes on the back of a TV are designed for a specific screw length. The thread depth is precisely calculated to provide secure attachment without risking internal damage. When a screw is too long, it passes through the threads and enters the cavity behind the mounting plate.

What is behind the mounting plate? Depending on the TV model, the area behind the VESA mounting area can contain: the main logic board, power supply components, HDMI connector boards, speaker wiring, LED backlight connectors, or the display panel itself. A screw that penetrates this area can short-circuit any of these components.

Maximum Screw Lengths by TV Size

32-inch TV (M4 screws). Maximum screw length: typically 7mm to 10mm. Smaller TVs have shallower threaded holes. Using a 12mm M4 screw on a 32-inch TV is a common mistake.

40 to 43-inch TV (M4 or M6 screws). Maximum screw length: typically 8mm to 10mm. Some models use M4, others use M6. Check your specific model.

50 to 55-inch TV (M6 screws). Maximum screw length: typically 8mm to 12mm. Most 55-inch TVs can handle 10mm M6 screws. A few thin models max out at 8mm.

60 to 65-inch TV (M6 screws). Maximum screw length: typically 10mm to 12mm. Larger TVs generally have deeper threaded holes, but ultra-thin models may have shallow threads despite the large screen.

70 to 85-inch TV (M8 screws). Maximum screw length: typically 10mm to 14mm. The largest TVs use the longest screws, but the exact length varies significantly by model.

Symptoms of Screws That Are Too Long

Screw bottoms out before tightening. The screw stops threading before the head is flush with the mount bracket. This means the screw tip has reached the bottom of the threaded hole and is pressing against the internal cavity.

Cracking or creaking sounds. If you hear a crack or creak when tightening the screw, the screw tip is likely pressing against or penetrating an internal component. Stop immediately and remove the screw.

TV does not turn on after mounting. If the TV worked before mounting but will not turn on afterward, a screw may have short-circuited an internal component. Disconnect the TV from the mount and have it inspected.

Intermittent display or audio issues. A screw that is barely touching an internal component may cause intermittent problems — flickering display, audio cutouts, or random shutdowns. These symptoms can appear immediately or develop over time.

How to Prevent VESA Screw Damage

Check the manual first. Before installing any TV mount, check the TV manual for the recommended VESA screw size and maximum length. This is the single most important step.

Use spacers. If the screws that came with the mount are too long, use spacers (standoffs) between the screw head and the TV back panel. Spacers take up the excess length so the screw does not bottom out. Most quality mounts include spacers in multiple lengths.

Buy the correct screws. If the mount does not include the right screws, purchase replacement VESA screws in the correct diameter and length. Hardware stores and online retailers carry M4, M6, and M8 screws in various lengths.

Thread by hand first. Before using a screwdriver, start each screw by hand. If the screw does not thread smoothly by hand, it is likely the wrong size or length. Never force a VESA screw.

What Is Included in Professional TV Mounting

• TV VESA screw size and length verification — we check your TV manual before selecting screws.
• Correct VESA screws and spacers — we bring the right screws for your specific TV model.
• Mount selection compatible with your TV’s VESA pattern and weight.
• Wall structure assessment and appropriate anchor selection.
• Complete installation, leveling, and cable management.
• Stability verification before you use the TV.

When TV Mounting Requires Specialized Help

• Suspected internal damage from long screws. If you believe a screw may have damaged your TV, stop using it and have it inspected before continuing the installation.
• Ultra-thin TVs. Ultra-thin TV models often have very shallow threaded holes. Professional installers know the correct screw lengths for popular thin models.
• Stripped threads from over-tightening. If the VESA threads are stripped, repair may be possible but requires specialized techniques.

Our TV Mounting Process

Step 1: TV and wall assessment.
We verify your TV model, VESA pattern, and the correct screw size and maximum length. We inspect the wall structure behind the mounting location.

Step 2: Mount selection.
Based on your TV’s VESA pattern, weight, and desired mount style, we select a compatible mount. We verify the included screws match your TV or bring the correct screws.

Step 3: Mount installation.
The mount is secured to the wall using anchors appropriate for your wall type. We verify the mount is level and solid before attaching the TV.

Step 4: TV mounting and cable management.
Using the correct VESA screws and spacers, your TV is securely attached to the mount. We thread each screw by hand first, then tighten to the correct torque. All cables are organized and we perform a final stability check.

Pricing Factors

• TV size and weight. Larger, heavier TVs require heavier-duty mounts and hardware.
• Mount type. Fixed mounts are the most affordable. Tilting and full-motion mounts cost more.
• Wall type. Standard drywall on wood studs is the most straightforward. Metal studs, plaster, brick, and concrete require specialized hardware.
• Cable management. Basic cable organization is included. In-wall cable concealment requires additional materials and labor.
• Special hardware. If your TV requires specific screw lengths or spacers, these are included in our standard service.

FAQ: VESA Screws Too Long

Q: I think I used screws that were too long. My TV still works. Should I worry?
A: Yes. Even if the TV works now, a screw that is too long can cause latent damage that appears weeks or months later. Remove the TV from the mount, inspect the screw holes, and replace with the correct length screws.

Q: Can I use washers instead of spacers?
A: Standard washers are not the same as VESA spacers. VESA spacers are precision-machined to the correct length and thread size. Using washers can result in improper fit and reduced clamping force.

Q: How much does it cost to fix a TV damaged by long VESA screws?
A: Repair costs vary widely depending on the damage. A short-circuited connector may be a simple fix. A damaged logic board or display panel can cost hundreds of dollars. Prevention is always cheaper — use the correct screws.

Q: My TV manual is lost. How do I find the correct screw length?
A: Search your TV model number online plus “VESA screw specification” or “mounting screw length.” The manufacturer website or retailer product page will list the specification.

Q: Can I cut a VESA screw to the correct length?
A: No. Cutting a screw changes the thread profile and can create sharp burrs that damage the TV threads. Always use factory-manufactured screws in the correct length.

Q: How much does professional TV mounting cost?
A: TV mounting pricing depends on TV size, mount type, wall type, and cable management needs. We always use the correct VESA screws for your TV — included in the service. Call (708) 475-2454 or message us on WhatsApp.

Protect Your TV — Use the Right Screw Length

VESA screws that are too long can permanently damage your TV. Before you install a TV mount, verify the correct screw length for your TV model. If you are unsure, send us a photo of your TV and we will help you identify the correct screws.

Related: VESA Screws Guide | VESA Screws Too Short | Curved Back Panel TV