So you just bought a beautiful new TV and you're staring at that blank wall, imagining how great it would look mounted up there. The question is: should you tackle this yourself or hire a professional?

Let's break it down honestly.

The DIY Approach

What You'll Need

  • TV mount ($30–$150 depending on type)
  • Stud finder
  • Level
  • Drill and bits
  • Socket wrench or screwdriver
  • Possibly a wire concealment kit ($20–$50)

The Process

  1. Find the studs in your wall
  2. Mark and level your mounting points
  3. Drill pilot holes
  4. Attach the wall plate
  5. Connect the brackets to your TV
  6. Hang the TV and adjust
  7. Deal with the cables somehow

Where DIY Can Go Wrong

Finding studs isn't always simple. Stud finders can be finicky, and if you miss the stud, your TV could end up on the floor. I've seen it happen.

Not all walls are the same. Plaster, concrete, brick, and metal-framed walls each require different approaches. The YouTube video you watched probably assumed standard wood-framed drywall.

The cables. This is where most DIY jobs fall apart. You can mount the TV perfectly, but those dangling cables ruin the whole look. Running cables through walls requires cutting holes, fishing wires, and understanding what's behind your drywall.

Height and viewing angle. It's surprisingly easy to mount a TV too high. Once those holes are drilled, they're there forever (or until you patch and repaint).

The Professional Approach

What You Get

  • Experience with your wall type — We've mounted TVs on drywall, plaster, brick, stone, concrete, and even outdoor surfaces.

  • Proper cable concealment — Cables run through the wall with low-voltage rated materials and proper wall plates. No visible wires.

  • Optimal placement — We'll help you choose the right height and angle for comfortable viewing based on your seating position.

  • The right mount — Articulating? Tilting? Fixed? We'll recommend what actually makes sense for your space and TV size.

  • No trips to the hardware store — We bring everything needed for standard installations.

When DIY Makes Sense

Be honest with yourself:

  • ✅ You have standard drywall with accessible studs
  • ✅ You own quality tools and know how to use them
  • ✅ You're okay with visible cables (or using a cable cover track)
  • ✅ You've successfully completed similar projects before
  • ✅ You have someone to help lift and hold the TV

When to Call a Pro

  • ❌ Your wall is plaster, brick, concrete, or metal-framed
  • ❌ You want cables completely hidden in the wall
  • ❌ The TV is going above a fireplace (tricky angles and heat concerns)
  • ❌ You're mounting a TV over 55" (heavy and awkward)
  • ❌ You're not confident finding studs or using a drill
  • ❌ You value your time more than the cost of installation

The Real Cost Comparison

DIY costs:

  • Mount: $50–$150
  • Tools (if you don't have them): $50–$100
  • Cable management kit: $20–$50
  • Your time: 2–4 hours (more if things go wrong)
  • Risk of damage: Priceless 😅

Professional installation:

  • Typically $150–$300 depending on complexity
  • Includes mount expertise, cable concealment, and cleanup
  • Done in about an hour
  • Warranty on the work

The Bottom Line

There's no shame in DIY if you're handy and have the right situation. But if you want it done right the first time — with hidden cables and no stress — professional installation is worth every penny.

The wall-mounted TV you've been dreaming about shouldn't come with anxiety about whether it's going to fall down or look messy.

Ready to Get Your TV Mounted?

We serve the High Plains region east of Denver and typically respond within a few hours. Call or text to get a quick quote — most standard installations can be scheduled within a few days.

Check out our full TV Mounting & Installation services or learn about our wire concealment options for a completely clean look.

Related posts: