Can You Mount a TV on Plaster Walls? – Complete Guide

At least once, for sure, you’ve asked, can you mount a TV on plaster walls? If so, how is it done? And that’s what we’ll be detailing for you in this guide!

By the end of this article, you’ll be armed with the knowledge of whether you can mount a TV on a plaster wall or not, as well as some insights on how it needs to be done.

If you’re curious to know if it’s possible to mount a television on a plaster wall, it is. In fact, the process is relatively easy. You just need the proper tools and materials to be able to do so.

Can You Mount a TV on Plaster Walls?

Yes, you can definitely mount a television on a plaster wall. It may sound complicated and complex because plaster walls are smooth.

In reality, it’s really difficult to pull off because of the nature of these plaster walls.

But, if you use the correct tools and equipment, you’ll be able to mount your TV onto your plaster walls properly and securely.

Moreover, you need to make sure that you are prepared not only with the tools and equipment you’ll need but also with the working space.

What Tools Do You Need to Mount a TV on a Plaster Wall?

There are certain devices and equipment that could be of relevance if you plan on mounting your TV on a plaster wall. These include but are not limited to:

Power Drill

You’ll need a power drill to make the hole where you’ll be mounting the TV. This is relevant so that you wouldn’t need to exert that much effort in producing holes to drive fasteners into the studs.

Stud Finder

A stud finder is an effective machine that you can use to find framing studs behind the plaster wall.

You can purchase a magnetic stud finder or an electric stud finder for this purpose.

Plaster Anchor

In case your walls do not have studs behind them, you can use plaster anchors to help and assist the mounting of your TV onto the wall.

Most plaster anchors can hold at least 120 pounds of weight.

NOTE: Don’t choose any type of plaster, make sure that you choose anchors that are purposely made for plaster walls.

Otherwise, they would fall off and would be ineffective.

Mounting Plate

Not all mounting plates are the same – some can hold more weight than others. So, ensure that the mounting plate you’ll purchase will be able to hold your TV.

Now that you know about these materials, how can you install a TV mount on lath and plaster walls?

How to Install TV Mount on Plaster Walls

Once you have everything that you need, the process of doing so would be easy. In fact, we can go over this particular process briefly and simply.

Step #1: Locate the Studs Behind the Wall

Unsure if you have studs behind your walls? Use a stud finder or a stud detector.

You’ll know that the device was able to locate a stud when it beeps.

Then, mark that specific location accurately so you don’t lose it when it’s time for drilling.

Step #2: Drill Holes Into the Wall

When you’re able to find the studs (and when you’re sure that they’re leveled/balanced), drill pilot holes into the wall.

NOTE: To achieve the best results, use a drill bit that is at least 0.32 to 0.34 centimeters smaller than the anchor you’ll use.

Step #3: Screw the Plaster Anchors In

Then, the next thing to do is to screw the anchors into the wall. You can use a manual screwdriver or an electric screwdriver for the job.

NOTE: Ensure that you screw the anchor properly to avoid wiggling or uneven mounts.

Step #4: Remove the Anchor Screws 

After that, you need to remove the screws from the anchor.

Insert the screwdriver into it and do a counterclockwise rotation to untangle and remove the screws from the plaster anchors you just installed.

NOTE: If you are using toggle bolts, you wouldn’t need to remove the screws.

Step #5: Attach the Mounting Plate to the Wall

Once you were able to establish the anchors onto the wall, the next thing you want to do is to attach the mounting plate to the wall by taking the screws you took from the anchor and fastening it onto the wall properly.

Make sure that the attachment is strong and secure.

Step #6: Install Your TV to the Wall

Lastly, install your TV on the wall. Place it on the wall bracket and ensure that it’s leveled and centered.

Make sure that the TV is carefully centered.

You can check it by nudging it from side to side to see if it’s been securely installed in place.

Factors to Consider in Mounting TV on a Plaster Wall

Before you decide to mount your TV on your plaster walls, it’s important that you consider a few factors to make sure that there wouldn’t be any problems after you do so.

Factor 1: You Have the Right Tools

NEVER start the project if you do not have all the needed tools and equipment.

Make sure that you have everything you need and that your working space isn’t limited.

Factor 2: The Plaster Wall is Solid/Stable

Before starting the project, ensure that the plaster wall where you’ll be mounting your TV is solid and stable. If it’s weak, no matter how strong the mount is, it can deteriorate and fall.

Factor 3: The TV is Lightweight (Not That Heavy)

Last but most definitely not least is to ensure that the TV you’ll be mounting is not that heavy.

While most smart TVs today weigh about 38 to 40 pounds, bigger televisions could weigh upwards of 45 pounds.

So, make sure that your TV mount will be able to hold your TV and that the spot where you’ll be mounting it is strong and stable.

Read Next: How to Get Internet from Cable TV Line?

Final Thoughts

In case you’re curious about the possibility of mounting a TV on a plaster wall or if you need to do so– it is! You just need to have the right tools, materials, and equipment to be able to do it properly and securely.

So, can you mount a TV on plaster walls?

Yes, you definitely can! It might seem unorthodox for some, but it is possible, and in fact, you can do it even without the help of a professional!

Knowing and understanding the process of how you can mount your TV on lathe and plaster walls is important because in the future when you encounter a situation that requires this information, you’ll know what to do!