Best paint for a wall mounted TV

Key takeaways of this article:

• Choose a TV mount that fits the kind of wall and the weight of the TV and that fits your needs (tilting, turning, etc).
• Paint the wall before you add the mount so you don’t accidentally get paint on the mount itself.
• Matte and flat finishes help reduce glare from the TV.
• Darker paint behind the TV can make it easier to see the screen.
• For small homes, consider a sound-proofing paint.  It won’t be completely soundproof, but can dampen the noise.

When mounting a TV on the wall, there are several construction and painting considerations to keep in mind:

Choose the Right Wall and Mount and height

• Wall Type: Determine whether your wall is drywall, plaster, concrete, or brick. Drywall will require studs for support, while concrete or brick will need special anchors.
• Stud Location: Use a stud finder to locate wooden studs for secure mounting. Never mount the television directly into the drywall alone, as it won’t support the weight.
• TV Mount Type: Choose a mount based on your needs—fixed, tilting, or full-motion. Full-motion mounts require stronger wall anchors and more reinforcement:
• Ideal TV Mounting Height:  Most people mount their TVs too high on the wall.  This may be necessary to ensure it looks nice when it’s in place.  But for ergonomics, as you sit down, ideally your eyes should be directly across from the middle of the TV.

Construction Considerations

• Weight Support: Ensure your wall can handle the weight of your TV and mount. If studs are unavailable in the desired location, consider installing a mounting plate or additional reinforcement.
• Cable Management: Plan for cable concealment. Options include in-wall cable routing, surface raceways, or installing an electrical outlet behind the TV.
• Wall Condition: If mounting on drywall, be prepared for some minor wall damage, such as holes that may need patching later if you remove the mount.

Painting Considerations

• Remove the TV if Possible: If the TV is easy to detach from the mount, removing it ensures a cleaner job.  Sometimes, if the TV stays mounted, the heat from the TV causes the paint to dry too quickly, resulting in possible unevenness, so if you have to leave the TV in place, don’t turn it on.
• If you cannot remove the TV, use FrogTape to protect the edges.
• Use plastic to cover the TV and any surrounding wall-mounted decor (bookshelves, etc.)
• Use a Low-Lint Roller: Prevents lint particles from sticking to the wall near electronics.
• Prepping the Wall: If you plan to repaint the wall after installation, do so before mounting the TV to avoid painting around the mount.
• Patch and Sand: If previous mounts left holes or damage, patch them with spackle, sand smoothly, and prime before painting.
• Color and Finish: Matte finishes help reduce glare from the TV. A neutral or dark color behind the TV can enhance the viewing experience.
• Feather Brushstrokes: When cutting in around the mount, use smooth, feathered strokes to blend with rolled areas.
• Allow the paint to dry completely before remounting the TV – this take about 24 hours.

Safety Tips

• Power Source: Ensure a nearby outlet is accessible. Running a power cable through the wall requires an in-wall-rated power kit for safety.
• Ventilation: Allow space around the TV for airflow to prevent overheating.
• Securing Wires: Use cable ties or clips to keep wires organized and prevent hanging cords.  Label cords – your future-self will thank you!

Paint Finish Options

• Matte or Flat Finish: Reduces glare from the TV screen, providing a distraction-free viewing experience. However, it can be harder to clean.
• Eggshell or Satin Finish: Offers a balance between low reflectivity and durability, making it easier to wipe down while still reducing glare.
• Semi-Gloss or Gloss Finish: Highly durable and easy to clean but can create reflections that may be distracting while watching TV.

Best Paint Colors for TV Walls

• Dark Neutral Colors: Deep grays, charcoal, or navy blue can enhance contrast and reduce screen glare.
• Soft, Warm Neutrals: Light taupe, beige, or soft gray provide a cozy look without being too reflective.
• Black or Deep Blue: These colors create a theater-like effect but should be used in well-lit spaces to avoid making the room feel too dark.

Can paint help dampen the sound of the TV in a small home?

• Soundproofing Paint: While not a complete noise barrier, sound-dampening paint can help reduce echo and sound reflection in a media room.
• Wall-Mounted Acoustic Panels: These absorb sound waves and reduce echo, making the room quieter.
• Thick carpeting and rugs, as well as full bookshelves, can help dampen TV sounds.

Painting Tips

• Primer: If you’re changing to a darker color, use a tinted primer to achieve better coverage. You may also need up to 3 coats of paint to get the desired depth and saturation of the paint color.
• Trim and Edges: If your TV area includes built-in shelves or trim, consider painting them in a slightly different shade for depth.