My Studs are Not the Usual Spacing (12-14″): How to Mount Your TV with Elephant Anchors

Mounting a TV on your wall can be a daunting task, especially when your studs are not spaced at the usual 12 to 14 inches. Many people face this issue and feel stuck, unsure of how to securely mount their TV. Fortunately, Elephant Anchors provides an excellent solution for this common problem, ensuring your TV stays securely mounted no matter the spacing of your studs. In this blog post, we’ll explore why stud spacing can be an issue, how Elephant Anchors solve this problem, and provide a step-by-step guide to mounting your TV on walls with non-standard stud spacing.

Why Stud Spacing Matters

Studs are vertical wooden beams within your walls that provide structural support. Standard stud spacing is typically 16 inches on center (OC), meaning from the center of one stud to the center of the next is 16 inches. However, some homes, particularly older ones or those with unconventional construction methods, may have studs spaced 12 to 14 inches apart or even irregularly.

The spacing of studs is crucial because it affects the stability and support of whatever you’re mounting on the wall. Mounting a TV, which is often heavy and requires strong support, is particularly dependent on proper stud placement. If the studs are too far apart, the traditional mounting methods may not provide enough support, leading to potential damage to your TV or wall.

Elephant Anchors to the Rescue

Elephant Anchors are designed to provide robust and reliable mounting solutions regardless of stud spacing. They are particularly beneficial for mounting in drywall, concrete, or brick walls where studs are not aligned with the mounting requirements. These anchors are engineered to hold heavy loads securely, ensuring your TV stays in place.

Key Features of Elephant Anchors:

Heavy-Duty Support: Elephant Anchors are built to support substantial weight, making them ideal for mounting TVs of various sizes.

Versatility: Suitable for different wall types, including drywall, concrete, and brick.

Ease of Installation: Designed for straightforward installation, saving you time and effort.

Reliability: Tested to meet high safety standards, ensuring your mounted items stay secure.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mounting Your TV with Elephant Anchors

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you mount your TV using Elephant Anchors, even if your studs are not spaced at the usual 12 to 14 inches.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools and materials:

Elephant Anchors

TV mount
Electric drill
Drill bits (suitable for your wall type)
Level
Tape measure
Pencil
Stud finder
Screwdriver

Step 2: Locate Your Studs

Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. Mark their positions with a pencil. If your studs are not spaced 12 to 14 inches apart, measure the actual spacing and note it down. This will help you plan the mounting process.

Step 3: Determine the Mounting Points

Based on the position of your studs, determine the best mounting points for your TV bracket. Ideally, you should aim to secure at least two points on studs for maximum stability. However, if the stud spacing doesn’t align perfectly with your TV mount, you can use Elephant Anchors for additional support.

Step 4: Drill Pilot Holes

Using your electric drill, create pilot holes at the marked points on the wall. If you are drilling into studs, use a bit suitable for wood. For drywall, concrete, or brick, choose the appropriate drill bit.

Step 5: Install Elephant Anchors

Insert Elephant Anchors into the pilot holes where studs are not available. These anchors expand behind the wall to provide a secure hold. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. Typically, this involves tapping the anchor into the hole and tightening it with a screwdriver to expand it behind the wall.

Step 6: Attach the TV Mount

Once the anchors are in place, align the TV mount with the pilot holes and secure it using screws. Ensure that the mount is level before fully tightening the screws. The Elephant Anchors will provide the necessary support where studs are not available, ensuring a stable mount.

Step 7: Mount the TV

With the bracket securely attached to the wall, you can now mount your TV. Follow the instructions provided with your TV mount to safely attach the TV to the bracket. Make sure all connections are secure before letting go of the TV.

Step 8: Test the Stability

After mounting the TV, gently test its stability by giving it a light shake. It should feel secure and show no signs of movement. If it wobbles or feels unstable, recheck the mounting points and ensure all screws are tightly secured.

Tips for a Successful TV Mounting

Use a Level: Ensuring your mount is level is crucial for both aesthetics and stability.

Check Weight Limits: Always check the weight limit of your TV mount and Elephant Anchors to ensure they can support your TV.

Safety First: If you’re unsure about any step in the process, seek professional assistance to avoid potential damage or injury.

Conclusion

Mounting a TV when your studs are not spaced at the usual 12 to 14 inches can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With Elephant Anchors, you can achieve a secure and stable mount on various wall types, ensuring your TV is safely supported. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently mount your TV, even in homes with non-standard stud spacing.