List Only

How do I mount a TV to a wall without studs?

In my apartment the only place to mount my TV is above the fireplace. After several conversation with the apt. managers, two different stud finders, and more pilot nails than I care to talk about I can definatively say that there are no studs in the wall above my fireplace. It is a non-load bearing wall so I guess that the framers felt they could save some money there. Currently my only solution is to run a 2 X 10 across from the studs at the edges of the fireplace secured in place 3/8" lag screws. Then mount the TV to the 2 X 10. Will this work and does anyone have any other Ideas.

Public Comments

1. canadian tire sells these neat little hooks that stick to your wall ment for tvs like yours
2. i have mine above my fireplace with only screws and it is mounted there are two holes in the back on the bottom of the tv thats were you will set the screws up to be then put the screws in the wall and mount it.i think i actualy used wall togs.
3. You can remove the wallboard above the fireplace and insert studs or braces where you would need them. The wall will be open so it will be easy to hide the wires and run an electrical outlet, additional speakers, and cable feed for the TV as well. You can then just take 1/2" or 5/8" wallboard and refinish it, covering the wires, etc. This method may be a bit more labor intensive but you won't have any dangling wires etc. to deal with afterwards, it will be a clean look.
4. I would use 1/2" plywood and cover the wall from edge to edge with a solid piece, use glue and screws to attach the whole sheet. The sheet will take the weight and torque/pressure of the TV and spread it over the entire wall. think of it like a huge backing plate.
5. without actually seeing this and not knowing the weight of the TV all I can suggest is that you have two brackets made and attach to the fire place and then screwed to the wall then hang TV from the brackets not the wall the brackets could hold up to 75kg easily
6. a sufficient amount of toggle bolts of the proper rating versus weight of TV may work
7. How about hanging it from the ceiling if you can locate rafters in the right places, instead of mounting it on the wall? They make ceiling hangars for these. Barring that, if you have a wooden mantle that is secured, you could create a platform for your tv to sit on. You would have to assure it tilted slightly back. Am assuming you are dealing with a flat screen. Depending on the size and weight, if it is flat screen, I would go with the idea of spanning from side to side with a stained and varnished 1X8, assuring you have hit the support studs at each end of the mantel. Use lags, two per side, at least 3" AND make sure you drill pilots first through both spanning board and studs, otherwise you may split the wood. Then, mount the tv to the 1X8 using whatever instructions come for wall hanging the product. That should be included, but if not, look for suitable hanger holes on the back of the set and place yours accordingly on the span board.
8. Change the look over your fireplace with something that would dress up the room and enhance that area, do a Wainscoting or a random design with cedar planks,maybe a knotty pine tongue and grove. Do one of these by gluing and nailing then you have something to attach your TV mount to. Just giving you something to think about and look good to.
9. That will work. I have a similar situation in my son's room. It might not look great but I have been around construction and decorating for a long time and I would under no circumstances not mount it to just sheetrock - even with toggles it will not be safe.