TV wall mounting in Singapore

Wall mounting a TV in Singapore is usually a fixed-price handyman job, but the price depends on the TV size, the bracket type, the wall material and whether cables need hiding. Before booking, check the TV's mounting pattern, decide on a bracket and ask what the quoted price includes.

What a TV mounting job involves

A typical job includes marking the position, drilling into the wall, fixing the bracket, hanging the TV and checking that it is level and secure. Some companies also supply the bracket, tidy the cables or move a power point, but these are often extras. Know which parts you want before comparing quotes.

The wall matters as much as the TV. Concrete walls, common in HDB flats, need the right drill and anchors. Drywall or board partitions, found in some condos and renovated homes, may not hold a heavy TV without fixing into a stud or using a suitable anchor, and some partitions are not suitable at all. Tell the company what the wall is made of if you know, or ask them to check.

Every bracket should match the mounting pattern on the back of your TV, often called the VESA pattern, and its weight and size ratings. Check the TV manual or the label on the back for these figures. If the company supplies the bracket, ask which model and its ratings.

Choosing the position

Think about viewing height, glare from windows and where the power and cable points are. A TV mounted too high is uncomfortable to watch from a sofa. Hold the TV's box or a sheet of cardboard against the wall to judge the size and height before the visit.

Check for pipes and wiring before drilling. Power points, switches and pipes often run vertically or horizontally from fittings, and drilling into them is dangerous. Ask the technician how they check for hidden services. If the wall has concealed wiring from a renovation, your contractor's drawings can help.

HDB rules and drilling hours

In HDB flats, drilling and other noisy work should follow HDB's guidance on renovation and noise. The HDB information on renovations sets out permitted working hours and other conditions, and it is worth checking before you book a time slot. Condos usually have their own rules, so ask the management office.

Some walls in HDB flats should not be drilled into, or need care, such as walls with concealed services. If you are unsure, ask the technician to check before starting.

Hiding the cables

Loose cables hanging below a mounted TV are the most common complaint after installation. There are three usual options: a surface cable trunking painted to match the wall, routing cables through a cabinet or console below the TV, or concealing cables inside the wall.

Concealing cables inside a wall, or moving a power point behind the TV, involves electrical work that must be carried out by a licensed electrical worker. EMA's guidance on engaging licensed workers explains this. Ask the handyman who will do any electrical part of the job, or book an electrician separately.

How TV mounting is priced

Many handyman companies publish a fixed price for mounting a TV, sometimes with different prices by screen size. Extras commonly include the bracket, cable trunking, a second TV, mounting on a difficult wall and moving a power point.

The published rates further down this page come from company websites in the HomezyPro directory, one matching rate per company with its source and capture date. Check each source for what is included, the size limits and any transport charge.

• Does the price include the bracket, or do I supply it?
• Is there a size or weight limit at this price?
• Is cable trunking included, and what does concealing cables cost?
• Is there an extra charge for drywall, tiles or high walls?
• Is there a transport or minimum charge, and is GST included?

Moving or replacing a mounted TV

If you are replacing an old TV, check whether the existing bracket fits the new screen's mounting pattern and weight. A bracket that suited a smaller set may not be rated for a larger one, and reusing it to save a little money is not worth the risk. Ask the company to check the old bracket before reusing it.

When you move house or reposition a TV, the old holes need filling and the wall may need touching up. Ask whether the company patches holes, and whether paint touch-ups are included or charged separately. In a rented home, check the tenancy agreement before drilling, since some landlords restrict wall fixings.

Preparing for the visit

Have the TV, the bracket if you are supplying it, the screws that came with the TV and the manual ready. Clear the area in front of the wall and move furniture back. Agree the exact height and position before drilling starts.

Mounting a large TV is usually a two-person job. Ask the company whether it sends two people or expects you to help lift the screen. After the TV is up, check that it is level, firmly fixed and that the cables reach the sockets without strain.

TV mounting questions

Can a TV be mounted on any wall?

No. Concrete and solid walls usually hold a TV well with the right anchors. Board and drywall partitions may need fixing into studs or special anchors, and some are not suitable for heavy or swivel brackets. Ask the technician to check the wall.

Should I buy the bracket myself?

You can, as long as it matches your TV's mounting pattern, size and weight. Some companies supply brackets and include them in a package price. Compare the total, and ask the company to confirm compatibility before you buy.

Can the handyman hide the cables inside the wall?

Concealing cables or moving a power point involves electrical work that must be done by a licensed electrical worker. Some handyman companies arrange this; others will recommend an electrician. Ask before booking.

How long does wall mounting a TV take?

A straightforward job on a solid wall is usually quick, but cable work, difficult walls or large swivel brackets take longer. Ask the company for an estimate based on the TV size, the bracket and photos of the wall.