MantelMount Installation Above Fireplace + Important Safety Tips

MantelMount Installation Above Fireplace + Important Safety Tips

MantelMount Installation Above Fireplace + Important Safety Tips

Introduction

Mounting a TV above a fireplace has become one of the most popular trends in modern interior design. However, it often comes with challenges such as improper viewing height, uncomfortable angles, excessive heat exposure, and limited flexibility.

MantelMount TV mounts are specifically engineered to solve these issues. With their advanced pull-down and tilt mechanisms, they allow you to lower your TV to eye level for comfortable viewing and return it above the fireplace when not in use.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the installation process, safety considerations, adjustment techniques, and maintenance tips to ensure a secure and professional setup.

MantelMount Installation

MantelMount Installation

What Is a MantelMount? Features & Benefits

MantelMount is a high-quality, pull-down TV wall mount designed specifically for installation above fireplaces.

Key Benefits:

✔ Pull-down functionality for eye-level viewing
✔ Vertical and tilt angle adjustment
✔ Gas piston auto-balancing arms
✔ Built-in cable management
✔ Suitable for large and heavy TVs
✔ Improved safety and ergonomic comfort

Why Proper Installation Matters

Improper installation can lead to:

  • TV instability or wobbling
  • Wall damage
  • Mount failure
  • Safety hazards
  • Reduced lifespan of the mount

Correct installation ensures durability, safety, and smooth operation.

MantelMount Installation

Step 1: Tools & Preparation

Before starting, gather the following tools:

  • Power drill
  • Drill bits (based on wall type)
  • Screwdriver or impact driver
  • Level (manual or laser)
  • Measuring tape
  • Stud finder
  • Socket wrench
  • Safety gloves

Step 2: Identify Your Wall Type

Your wall type determines how the mount should be secured.

Wood Stud Wall

  • Locate studs using a stud finder.
  • The mount must be secured directly into at least two studs.

Concrete or Brick Wall

  • Use proper anchors or lag bolts.
  • Drill holes with appropriate depth and precision.

Drywall

  • Never mount directly into drywall alone.
  • Always secure into studs behind the drywall.

MantelMount Installation

Step 3: Determine Proper Mounting Height

For optimal comfort:

The center of the TV should be approximately 40–43 inches (100–110 cm) from the floor when lowered.

Also, make sure there is enough vertical clearance for the mount’s pull-down movement.

Step 4: Mark the Mounting Location

Using a tape measure and level:

  1. Identify the center point.
  2. Mark the bolt hole positions precisely.

Accurate marking prevents alignment problems later.

MantelMount Installation

Step 5: Install the Wall Plate

The wall plate must be perfectly level.

✔ Drill pilot holes
✔ Secure lag bolts tightly
✔ Double-check alignment with a level

Even slight misalignment may affect smooth movement.

Step 6: Attach the Articulating Arms

The MantelMount’s gas-assisted arms control the movement.

  • Typically pre-assembled
  • Attach securely to the wall plate
  • Adjust tension according to TV weight

MantelMount Installation

Balancing Tip:

If the TV rises on its own → reduce tension.
If it drops too easily → increase tension.

Step 7: Install the TV Bracket (VESA Mounting Plate)

Check your TV’s VESA pattern (e.g., 400×400 mm).

✔ Use correct bolt size
✔ Ensure proper spacing
✔ Tighten evenly

Step 8: Mount the TV

This step requires two people.

  1. Lift the TV carefully.
  2. Hook it onto the mount.
  3. Secure safety screws.

MantelMount Installation

Step 9: Cable Management

MantelMount includes cable routing features.

Organize:

  • Power cable
  • HDMI cables
  • Other connections

Ensure cables have enough slack for full movement.

Fireplace Heat Considerations

Heat exposure is a critical factor.

Recommendations:

  • Use a heat sensor (if included)
  • Install a heat deflector
  • Measure wall temperature before installation

If wall temperature exceeds 104°F (40°C), installation is not recommended.

MantelMount Installation

Optimal Viewing Angle

For ergonomic viewing:

✔ Screen center at eye level
✔ Vertical tilt less than 15°

MantelMount allows fine tilt adjustment for perfect positioning.

MantelMount Installation

Common Issues & Solutions

TV Rises by Itself

→ Reduce gas spring tension.

TV Won’t Stay Down

→ Increase tension adjustment.

Movement Feels Stiff

→ Check bolt tightness and joints.

MantelMount Installation

MantelMount vs. Standard TV Mounts

FeatureMantelMountStandard Mount
Vertical Pull-Down✔✘
Fireplace Compatible✔✘
Advanced Tilt✔Limited
Safety FeaturesHighModerate
PriceHigherLower

MantelMount Installation

Professional Installation vs DIY

DIY is possible if:

✔ You have proper tools
✔ You understand wall structures
✔ Your TV size is manageable

Otherwise, hiring a professional installer ensures maximum safety.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your MantelMount functioning properly:

  • Inspect bolts every 6 months
  • Test arm movement regularly
  • Check cable tension
  • Avoid sudden force when adjusting

MantelMount Installation

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing MantelMount Above a Fireplace

Installing a MantelMount TV mount above a fireplace requires precision, proper tools, and attention to safety standards. When installed correctly, your TV will be secure, perfectly positioned, and comfortable to watch. In this complete guide, we explain each step of the MantelMount installation process clearly and professionally.

Step 1: Check Wall Type and Installation Conditions

Before beginning the MantelMount installation, determine your wall type:

  • Wood Stud Wall: The mount must be secured directly into wall studs.
  • Concrete or Brick Wall: Heavy-duty anchors or lag bolts are required.
  • Drywall: Installation is only safe if secured into studs behind the drywall.

Also, measure the wall temperature above the fireplace. If it exceeds 104°F (40°C), a heat deflector or thermal protection solution is recommended.

Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Tools

For a professional MantelMount installation, you will need:

  • Power drill with appropriate drill bits
  • Level (manual or laser)
  • Measuring tape and pencil
  • Screwdriver or impact driver
  • Socket wrench
  • Stud finder

Using proper tools improves accuracy and safety.

MantelMount Installation

Step 3: Determine the Correct Mounting Height

Choosing the right height is critical for comfort.

  • The center of the TV (when lowered) should be approximately 40–43 inches (100–110 cm) from the floor.
  • Account for the vertical drop range of the mount (usually 20–24 inches).
  • Ensure enough clearance for the articulating arms to move freely.

Incorrect height can cause neck strain and poor viewing ergonomics.

Step 4: Locate the Exact Mounting Position

For wood stud walls:

  1. Use a stud finder to locate studs.
  2. Mark the center of each stud.
  3. The mount must attach to at least two studs.

For concrete walls, ensure drill points are level and precisely measured.

MantelMount Installation

Step 5: Install the Wall Plate

The wall plate is the foundation of the entire MantelMount system.

  1. Drill pilot holes.
  2. Secure lag bolts into studs or anchors.
  3. Use a level to confirm alignment.

Even slight misalignment can affect the mount’s movement and stability.

Step 6: Attach the Articulating Arms

The gas-assisted arms allow smooth vertical movement.

  • Secure the arms to the wall plate.
  • Insert safety pins properly.
  • Test for smooth and stable movement.

MantelMount Installation

Step 7: Install the TV VESA Bracket

To mount the TV correctly:

  • Verify your TV’s VESA pattern (e.g., 400×400 mm).
  • Use the correct bolt size and length.
  • Tighten evenly without over-tightening.

Using incorrect hardware may damage your TV.

Step 8: Mount the TV onto the MantelMount

This step requires two people for safety.

  1. Carefully lift the TV.
  2. Hook it onto the mounting arms.
  3. Secure the safety screws at the bottom.

After installation, the TV should be stable with no wobbling.

Step 9: Adjust the Tension and Balance

MantelMount features adjustable gas spring tension.

  • If the TV rises on its own → reduce tension slightly.
  • If the TV does not stay in place → increase tension.

The goal is balanced movement where the TV remains stable at any position.

MantelMount Installation

Step 10: Manage the Cables

Proper cable management ensures safety and aesthetics.

  • Ensure cables have enough slack.
  • Prevent cables from stretching when lowering the TV.
  • Route them through the mount’s cable management system.

Good cable organization enhances both safety and appearance.

Step 11: Final Testing and Inspection

After completing the MantelMount installation:

  • Move the TV up and down several times.
  • Check bolt tightness.
  • Adjust tilt and viewing angle.
  • Confirm safe distance from fireplace heat.

If movement is smooth and secure, installation is successful.

Professional Installation Tips

Avoid applying sudden force to the arms.

Confirm your TV weight is within the mount’s capacity.

For TVs larger than 75 inches, professional installation is recommended.

Inspect bolts every 6 months.

Standard TV Height Above Fireplace and Important Tips

Mounting a TV above a fireplace requires careful planning to ensure a comfortable and safe viewing experience. Proper height, viewing angle, and safe distance from the fireplace are the three key factors to consider.

1️⃣ Standard TV Height

For maximum comfort:

  • The center of the TV screen should be approximately at eye level of the viewer.
  • For most people, this means about 100–110 cm (40–43 inches) from the floor to the center of the screen.
  • With a MantelMount, you can lower the TV so that its center aligns perfectly with the ideal viewing height.

Approximate formula to determine TV center height:

TV center height = Viewer’s eye level + Half of TV height

Example:

  • Eye level while seated: 105 cm
  • TV height: 60 cm
  • TV center ≈ 105 + 30 = 135 cm from the floor

MantelMount allows you to adjust the center precisely to the optimal level.

2️⃣ Safe Distance from the Fireplace

  • The TV should be mounted at least 30–50 cm (12–20 inches) above the fireplace.
  • If the fireplace generates high heat, use a heat deflector or thermal protection.
  • Some MantelMount models feature temperature sensors that prevent TV movement if the heat is too high.

3️⃣ Optimal Viewing Angle

  • Vertical angle: Less than 15° up or down.
  • Horizontal angle: Directly facing the viewer for best picture quality.
  • MantelMount’s tilt and pull-down features allow precise adjustment for ideal viewing.

4️⃣ Professional Tips for TV Height

Test before final installation: Temporarily place the TV to check viewing angle and comfort.

Lowering the TV: Even with a tall wall, MantelMount lets you position the TV at eye-level.

Level the screen center: Always use a level to ensure the TV is perfectly straight.

Viewer distance: For large TVs, the ideal distance is 1.5 to 3 times the screen diagonal.

Conclusion

MantelMount provides an innovative and ergonomic solution for mounting TVs above fireplaces. With its pull-down feature, adjustable tilt, and secure design, it enhances both viewing comfort and interior aesthetics.

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MantelMount Installation