How to Mount a Flat-Screen TV Outside: A Step-By-Step Guide

Summary – To mount your flat-screen TV outside, start by selecting a sheltered spot in your backyard to protect the TV from outside elements. Then, using a stud finder, locate the studs in your wall. Make sure your mounting bracket is screwed to at least one stud. And using the provided screws, secure your mounting bracket to the drilled wall. Next, organize your cables for a clean installation. Finally, mount your television to the wall using the wall bracket.

How to Mount a Flat-Screen TV Outside

Mounting a TV seems like a very simple task until you actually get your TV and are ready to mount it. Then you will discover how much work goes into installing a flat-screen TV in an outdoor space.

From choosing the best spot for your view and TV protection, using the right cable, and getting a power source. Mounting a flat-screen TV outside can be demanding and requires better planning than installing a TV indoors.

But it is well worth the work when you think of the benefits; you will be able to watch your favorite sports or TV show while enjoying fresh outside air on a hot summer evening.

So, if you are preparing your outdoor space for the summer and want to mount a flat-screen TV in your backyard, this is the guide for you.

What to Consider Before Hanging a Flat-Screen TV Outside

Before mounting your flat screen TV outside, here are a few preparatory steps;

1. Choose an outdoor TV

When setting up your outdoor area, one of the first questions is, “Can I Use a TV Outside?” Well, yes, you can use a TV outside, whether it’s an old sitting room TV or a new standard TV. But if you are using a standard TV in your outdoor space, hanging it on a well-covered patio is advisable to protect it from direct sunshine, rain, and other outside hazards.

However, using an outdoor-rated or all-weather TV in your backyard is best. These TVs are designed to be durable and suitable for outdoor usage. Outdoor-rated televisions are typically constructed with features such as extra-bright (up to 700 nits), and non-glare LED screens, making them ideal for use in an outdoor setting.  

2. Choose an Appropriate Location

When installing a TV outside, the most important decision is where to mount it. Even if your TV is outdoor rated, you should still keep it as far away from the elements as possible, especially direct sunshine, heat, and rain.

You should also position your TV in a spot that gives you the best possible view. As a result, it is advisable to place your outdoor TV in at least a partially shaded location or get a cabinet enclosure for your TV. 

But if you don’t have a covered space, make sure to place your TV facing the north so that the sun is constantly behind it. You must also ensure that the wall or pole is strong enough to support the TV.

Outdoor TV Set up Cable Flat Screen

3. Plan the TV Cable Setup

The type of cable setup you choose for your outdoor TV Installation depends on your preference, whether wired or wireless.

A wireless setup ensures a clean and simple installation. And, to connect to your favorite TV shows, your outdoor smart TV setup simply need a Wi-Fi router.

However, if you choose a wired setup, you must plan for it. You can’t just use any kind of wire since it can wear out and stop working quickly.

As a result, much like your TV, your cable must be weatherproof and heavy-duty. You’ll also need to protect your wires from the outside weather by encasing them in a pipe cover.

4. Get a PowerPoint

Bear in mind that your installation will be incomplete without a power supply. Check for a power outlet near your mounting location. If not, have a qualified electrician install an IP Rated powerpoint.

Step-By-Step Process For Mounting A Flay-Screen TV Outside

Now that you’ve picked a spot and prepared your mounting kits, it’s time to mount your outdoor TV.

Although the mounting technique may differ slightly based on the kind of wall and mounting bracket used. However, the following are the general steps for hanging a flat-screen TV outside.

Mark and Drill the Spot 

Begin the mounting process by marking and drilling the mounting spots.

  • Using a stud finder, locate nearby studs in the wall where you wish to put your flat-screen TV. Make sure to attach the mounting bracket to at least one stud to ensure that your TV is securely fastened to the wall.
  • Using a pencil, mark the spot for the mounting bracket on the wall. For the best view, ensure to place the TV in the center of your outdoor space.
  • Place your mounting bracket against the wall and mark the designated holes for screws. You must target at least one stud while marking your holes.
  • Drill the holes in the marked spots.

Once the holes are ready, insert plastic anchors into them to strengthen the screws.

Install the anchors

  • Use a hammer to insert the anchors.
  • Gently tap the anchors into place to prevent breaking the anchor or cracking the wall. 
Install the anchors and Secure the Mounting Brackets

Secure the Mounting Brackets

This step may differ based on the type of mounting bracket you use. However, most wall brackets employ a bolt-mounting system for extra strength and weight-carrying capabilities.

  • Attach the mounting bracket to the wall using the provided lag bolts.
  • Screw in the bolts securely using a power drill or screwdriver to secure the bracket to the wall.
  • Before hanging your TV, ensure the bolts are tight enough to keep it from dropping.

Setup Cables

Now that the bracket is on the wall, hanging your TV seems like the next step, right? Well NO. Before hanging your TV, it is the best room to arrange the cables properly. Once you hang your TV, it becomes more difficult to connect cords to the back.

  • Depending on your power outlet, you may need to drill holes in the wall to pass the cables.
  • Connect the HDMI cable and any other wires to the wall via the cable box.
  • Use cable straps to hold your wires to the wall securely, or run them through the holes inside a plastic tube to the power outlet.

Mount Your TV

Now, it is time to attach your TV to the mounting bracket.

  • Find the mounting points on the back of the TV and screw the bracket parts into the holes.
  • Then, lift the TV up and set it against the wall bracket. You’d need someone to assist you with this. Also, avoid grabbing or pressing on the screen when raising the TV to avoid damaging the display.
  • Depending on the mounting bracket, you may need additional bolts to secure the TV to the mounting bracket. Check the label of your mounting kit for instructions.
  • Finally, plug the TV’s power cord into the socket to turn it on.                       

FAQs On How to Mount a Flat-Screen TV Outside

How Do I Protect My Outdoor TV?

An outdoor-rated TV is designed to be weatherproof. However, it must be protected from prolonged exposure to sunshine and rain to extend its usable life. As a result, it is advised that you:

  • Hang your TV in a covered patio or purchase an additional cover.
  • Keep the television at least six feet away from direct heat sources like fire pits and grills.
  • Purchase a full TV cover to protect your television from rain and dirt.
  • Use outdoor-rated mounts and cables.
  • Keep your wires safe in a cable box.

How long will an outdoor TV last outside?

Not every TV is built the same. So, how long your outdoor TV will last outside depends on the manufacturer and how well you protect it. However, an outdoor TV can last from 2 to 6 years in your entertainment space.