TV mounting sounds simple. It usually isn't. In Metro Vancouver — where a large percentage of homes are condos and townhouses with metal studs, concrete, or tile — standard mounting advice from YouTube doesn't always apply. Here are the most common mistakes we see and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Assuming Wood Studs
In most Metro Vancouver condos built after the 1990s, interior walls use metal studs, not wood. Metal studs require different anchors — standard wood screws will strip out and fail. A 65" TV falling off a wall is dangerous.
We always use the correct toggle anchors or heavy-duty metal stud mounts rated for the TV's weight. When in doubt, we go heavier than the spec requires.
Mistake 2: Not Planning the Cable Route
The most common regret after a DIY TV mount: "I didn't plan where to hide the cables." Running cables in-wall requires thinking about where the outlet is, whether there are fire blocks in the wall cavity, and how the cable gets from the TV to the media console below.
We plan the cable route before we mount anything. In drywall, we use in-wall cable routing kits or full conduit runs. On concrete or tile (common in BC commercial-style condos), we use surface-mounted raceways that match the wall colour.
Mistake 3: Mounting Above a Fireplace
This is the most requested and most controversial mount we're asked to do. Mounting above a fireplace puts the TV at neck-straining height and exposes it to rising heat. We assess: - Heat output: Gas fireplaces that vent through the mantle can exceed 40°C at the mount location - Viewing angle: Is the seated viewing angle comfortable? - Stud placement: Are there blocking or fireplace framing complications?
We'll be honest if the location is a bad idea. If it's workable, we use the right mount with heat shielding where needed.
Mistake 4: Skipping the Wall Type Assessment
BC homes have a wide range of wall types: standard drywall, concrete, brick, tile, and metal. Each requires a different approach. We assess every wall before drilling — using a stud finder, cable tracer, and sometimes a small inspection hole — to avoid hitting electrical, plumbing, or HVAC runs.
What We Do Before Leaving
After every TV mount: - TV is level and at the agreed height - All cables are concealed or managed cleanly - TV is powered on, all inputs are working - Apps are set up (Netflix, Apple TV, etc.) - You're shown how to use the mount (if it tilts or swivels)
No loose wires. No unfinished holes. No "figure it out yourself."
