My Wall has Metal Studs – What Do I Do?
Mounting a TV seems simple in theory—grab a drill, find the studs, and screw in the bracket. But what happens when you run into metal studs? Many homeowners and renters in New York City, especially in modern high-rise apartments, come across this issue. Hitting metal studs can throw a wrench into your TV mounting plans, causing frustration and concerns about safety and stability.
If you’ve tried mounting your TV and encountered metal studs, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Let’s break down why this happens, why it’s an issue, and, most importantly, how to solve it.
Why Are Metal Studs a Problem for TV Mounting?
In newer buildings and apartments, especially those constructed after the 1950s, metal studs are often used instead of traditional wood studs. While they are strong and lightweight, metal studs pose a challenge for TV mounting because they don’t hold screws in the same way that wooden studs do.
Mounting a heavy TV on metal studs using standard screws or anchors can lead to issues such as:
• Poor Stability: Metal studs don’t provide the same holding strength as wood, which can result in an unstable mount.
• Increased Risk of Damage: Without proper mounting techniques, the TV could become loose, fall, and cause damage to your wall—or worse, your expensive equipment.
The Right Way to Mount a TV on Metal Studs
While metal studs might seem like a roadblock, the good news is that professional installers know exactly how to handle this situation.
Here’s how we do it at Mounting NYC LLC:
1. Use Toggle Bolts through the Metal Stud
The most secure method is to install a toggle bolt through the metal stud. To do this, first, determine the studs that are necessary for the installation (check out our stud-finding guide for more info). Once you’ve identified the correct studs, make your marks and start pre-drilling. The hole needs to be ½” wide to accommodate the toggle bolt, which will provide a secure anchor point within the metal stud.
By using toggle bolts, we ensure that your TV is mounted safely and securely, avoiding the issues that come with regular screws or anchors.
Why DIY Isn’t the Best Option for Metal Studs
Trying to mount a TV on metal studs without the right tools or knowledge can lead to costly mistakes. Some common DIY issues include:
• Difficulty Finding Studs: Determining the location of metal studs requires experience and a quality stud finder, which can cost up to $65.
• Wall Damage: Mistakes in drilling or mounting can damage your drywall, leading to expensive repairs.
• Additional Tools: Drilling through metal studs requires a good drill and specialized metal drill bits, which can add to the overall cost.
Conclusion
For some of the more advanced DIYers with proper tools, installing a TV into method studs would be no problem with toggle bolts. However, metal studs can be tricky to work with and sometimes it best to hire professional help to avoid the headaches that come from DIY attempts. Contact us today to schedule your installation, and let us handle the heavy lifting!
