If you’re an avid follower of the HGTV series Fixer Upper (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), you’re likely well-acquainted with the rising star in interior design – DIY shiplap.
This trend has taken the home improvement scene by storm, offering a simple yet impactful way to infuse that coveted rustic farmhouse charm into any living space.
But, amidst all the excitement, a burning question may linger: Can you mount a TV through shiplap?
Yes, you can absolutely mount a TV on a shiplap wall. Shiplap, despite its rustic and textured appearance, is a sturdy and versatile material for interior walls.
Shiplap walls are no different from other wood-framed walls when it comes to mounting your TV. To ensure your TV is safe and secure, you need to locate the studs in your wall.
Since shiplap is a sturdy material, many people wonder if they can mount things on it without finding a stud. Those studs are crucial!
How Much Weight Can Shiplap Hold?
The weight-bearing capacity of shiplap can vary based on the material and thickness. Thicker and more robust shiplap may have a higher weight tolerance.
Unlike other wall coverings, shiplap is strong enough to hold nails or screws for items weighing up to 20 pounds anywhere on the wall. Studs aren’t necessary as with drywall.
You need to make sure the thickness of your stud wall covering (e.g. shiplap + drywall) does not exceed the recommended thickness for your TV wall mount.
If you need more details, consult your mount’s installation manual. This project can be completed in a few simple steps.
DIY Shiplap: A Practical Guide to Mounting Your TV
Shiplap walls add a touch of rustic charm to any space, but figuring out how to mount a TV on them can be a bit tricky.
Fortunately, with the right tools and a step-by-step approach, you can achieve a secure and aesthetically pleasing installation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of mounting your TV on a shiplap wall.
Materials and Tools Needed:
Most of the time, your TV comes with easy to follow instructions and all the hardware you need.
TV Wall Mount Kit:
Choose a kit that matches your TV’s size and weight.
Stud Finder:
Locate and mark the wall studs for a sturdy installation.
Level:
Ensure a straight and level mount.
Drill:
Necessary for creating pilot holes.
Screwdriver:
Depending on the screws included in the kit.
Pencil:
For marking and guiding the installation process.
Steps to Mount Your TV on a Shiplap Wall:
TVs are generally heavy, so it’s crucial to anchor the mounting bracket into the wall studs for proper support.
1. Choose the Mounting Location:
Consider eye level and room aesthetics when deciding where to mount your TV.
2. Find Wall Studs:
Use a stud finder to locate and mark the positions of the wall studs behind the shiplap.
3. Mark Mounting Holes:
Position the TV wall mount on the wall, aligning it with the stud marks. Use a pencil to mark the mounting hole locations.
4. Drill Pilot Holes:
Use a drill to create pilot holes at the marked locations. Ensure the drill bit matches the screw size provided in the kit.
5. Attach the Mounting Bracket:
Securely attach the mounting bracket to the shiplap wall using the provided screws. Ensure that the screws penetrate into the wall studs for stability.
6. Mount the TV:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to attach the TV to the bracket securely. This usually involves hooking the TV onto the bracket and using locking mechanisms.
7. Check for Level:
Use a bubble level to ensure the TV is level. Make any necessary adjustments.
8. Secure Cables:
Keep cables organized and hidden using cable management solutions like clips or raceways.
9. Test Stability:
Gently shake the TV to ensure it’s securely mounted. Double-check all connections and hardware.
Shiplap Styling Guide After Mounting TV
With the knowledge that flatscreen TVs can be mounted on shiplap, the next question is how you should style them.
One of the things that makes shiplap so popular is its variety of styles. For added insulation, shiplap was also used on the interior of many older homes around the country, especially farmhouses.
No matter what kind of wall you’re working with or what kind of shiplap project you’re planning, simplicity is key. Shiplap becomes the star of the room with a simple design, making it easier to see.
1. Decorate Around Your TV Instead
There are a number of ways you can mount your TV on shiplap, including directly on it. The shiplap could be used to create a TV frame if you want a really customized look.
Additionally, you can build simple shelving around or under it. You might want to consider adding shiplap wainscoting to the lower walls of the room to create a coordinated, built-in look.
It goes without saying that if you’re planning a DIY shiplap project, mounting your TV will fit right in.
2. Hide the Cables to Maintain Your Uncluttered Look
It’s a good idea to keep cables and wires away from the shiplap’s clean lines below your TV. What are you supposed to do with them?
A cable management system installed in the wall can be used even when the wall is covered in shiplap.
All cables and wires are routed behind the wall by the cable management system, which is easy to install, even by novice DIYers.
3. An Uncluttered Backdrop for Your TV
It is easier to feel at home in an uncluttered living space. When you watch TV or watch a movie in a room where you want to relax, it feels more comfortable.
Your viewing experience is greatly enhanced by wall-mounting your TV. You reduce visual clutter, free up surface space, and enhance your TV’s visual appeal.
Shiplap gives walls a strong linear look and subtle texture that beautifully complements the simple lines and smooth surfaces of a flatscreen TV.
There are two options when it comes to staining shiplap: leave it natural or stain it. In order to achieve a rustic farmhouse, look, I would recommend whitewashing it or painting it white.
In addition to bringing out your room’s color accents, white highlights your TV as the room’s focal point.
How Do You Find Studs Behind Shiplap Walls?
The best way to attach shiplap boards to a wall is to nail them to vertical studs. Make sure you know where the studs are in your wall by using a stud finder.
The average distance between studs is 16 inches or 24 inches. For easy identification, chalk a vertical line across each stud.
Additional Consideration: Assessing Shiplap Security
While the thickness of shiplap provides a sturdy base for mounting a TV, it’s essential to evaluate how securely the shiplap is affixed to the wall.
Shiplap that is only tacked on with brads may pose a risk of coming loose over time, especially with the added weight and vibration from a mounted TV.
Steps to Assess Shiplap Security:
1. Inspect the Attachment:
Examine how the shiplap is attached to the wall. If it’s secured with brads or nails, consider reinforcing it with additional screws for added stability.
2. Reinforce Shiplap Attachment:
If you find that the shiplap is not securely attached, reinforce it by adding screws to the studs behind the wall. This ensures a more robust foundation for mounting the TV.
3. Check for Warping:
Over time, shiplap might warp, potentially affecting its stability. Ensure the shiplap is flat against the wall, and if necessary, address any warping issues before proceeding with the TV installation.
4. Distribute Weight:
Consider distributing the weight of the TV across multiple studs to reduce the strain on any single attachment point. This can be especially important for larger and heavier TVs.
5. Consult a Professional:
If you’re uncertain about the security of the shiplap or if it needs reinforcement, it may be wise to consult a professional installer. They can assess the situation and provide guidance on ensuring a secure TV mount.
Conclusion
Before mounting your TV on a shiplap wall, thoroughly evaluate the security of the shiplap installation.
Taking the time to reinforce attachment points and address any potential issues will contribute to a more secure and long-lasting mounting solution.
Remember, when it comes to securing heavy objects like TVs, it’s better to be cautious and seek professional advice if needed, ensuring both the safety of your installation and the integrity of your shiplap wall.
