Common DIY TV Mounting Problems We Fix
From missed studs to crooked brackets, these are the most common DIY TV mounting problems we see in homes and how experienced technicians fix them properly.
Missed Studs and Drywall-Only Anchors
This is the number one problem we see when fixing DIY TV mounting jobs across the area. A homeowner uses a stud finder, thinks they have located the stud, drills in, and misses. Instead of finding solid wood, the lag bolt goes into drywall alone. Some people try to compensate by using drywall anchors or toggle bolts, which can hold lighter loads but are not rated for the sustained weight and leverage of a mounted TV, especially on a full-motion arm. The result is a mount that seems secure at first but gradually loosens over weeks or months. We have seen TVs that were one hard bump away from falling off the wall entirely. The fix involves removing the failed hardware, locating the actual studs with professional-grade detection tools, patching the old holes, and reinstalling the bracket into solid framing. If you attempted a DIY mount and notice any wobble, looseness, or the TV shifting over time, do not wait. Book a repair appointment before the mount fails completely.
Crooked Mounts and Uneven TVs
A TV that is even slightly off-level is immediately noticeable. It is one of those things you cannot unsee. Crooked mounts usually happen when the mounting template is not leveled properly during installation, or when one side of the bracket ends up in a stud while the other side is in drywall, causing uneven support. Some homeowners try to fix a crooked mount by adjusting the TV on the bracket rather than remounting the bracket itself. This can put uneven stress on the hardware and accelerate wear on the mount's locking mechanism. The correct fix is to remove the bracket, fill and patch the old holes, re-level using a precision level, and reinstall into properly located studs. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes for experienced technicians and the result is a perfectly level TV that stays that way permanently. This is one of the most common issues covered in our common TV mounting mistakes guide .
Damaged Walls and Oversized Holes
DIY installations sometimes result in wall damage that goes beyond normal mounting holes. We have seen oversized drill holes from missed measurements, cracked drywall from overtightened screws, and chunks of plaster pulled out when an anchor was removed. Brick and stone walls are particularly vulnerable to damage from improper drilling. Without a hammer drill and the right masonry bits, a standard drill can crack the stone face or shatter mortar joints, leaving holes that are much larger than intended. Fixing wall damage from a failed DIY mount involves patching the drywall or repairing the masonry, then mounting the TV correctly using the right tools and hardware for the wall type. If your wall took some damage during a mounting attempt, it is not the end of the world, but it is a good signal to bring in a professional for the reinstallation.
When to Call a Professional Instead of DIY
DIY TV mounting can work fine for a straightforward setup: a smaller TV, a fixed mount, standard drywall over wood studs, and no cord concealment. But for anything more complex, the risk of damage and the cost of fixing mistakes often exceeds the cost of professional installation in the first place. If your wall is brick, stone, concrete, or plaster, call a pro. If your TV is 65 inches or larger, call a pro. If you want in-wall cord concealment, call a pro. If the mount is going above a fireplace, call a pro. And if you already attempted a DIY mount and something does not look or feel right, definitely call a pro before the situation gets worse. TV Solutions offers transparent pricing through our online booking system , so you know exactly what the job costs before anyone shows up. Every installation is backed by our Lifetime Service Guarantee. We serve the entire service area, from Aurora to Lakewood to the surrounding communities and everywhere in between.