Curved walls are uncommon and more complex in their design but still can function similarly to a flat wall. While it’s trickier to install things and decorate on a curved wall, it is not impossible, and the innovation of technology provides many options for hanging things, such as a TV.
In the event of having a curved wall, you can still hang your TV. What makes this different from a flat wall is the degree of the curve, length of bolts needed, and the placement of the studs, which you will need to consider before you install your TV.
Where To Begin
It might be your first instinct to consult YouTube, but many of the videos will show you how to install a curved TV on a flat wall. The details and measurements needed in this process vary, though the concept is generally the same.
Firstly, you’ll need to take some measurements.
You need to find the curve of your wall. This number will help you determine how long your mounting bolts need to be. This process is described later in this article.
The next important step is in finding the studs in your wall. Depending on their positioning, this could impact the placement of your TV on a curved wall or even the placement of your TV on any wall. Knowing where the studs are is important because the bolts and screws go in them. Otherwise, your wall will not be able to support the weight of your TV.
After you find your measurements, you can determine the kind of mounting bracket you’ll need. Some mounts attach to the wall in an “H” or “X” shape, while others mount in a vertically aligned attachment. The shape you choose will be dependent on the degree of curvature of your wall.
Your mount should also be suited for the size of TV you have. If it is too small, it won’t be able to sustain the weight of the screen.
If you determine that your wall’s curve is too steep or that this task is not one you’re willing to commit to, there are also ceiling mounts for your tv that work for both flat and vaulted (slanted) ceilings.
Additionally, you’ll need to gather all the appropriate tools, such as a drill or screwdriver, a level, a pencil for markings, and an extra set of hands. If your mount requires anything else, the packaging will say.
Studs
Studs are arguably the most important part of hanging a TV. Studs are the pieces of 2×4 that make up the framing of a house, and they are what you need to mount your TV into. This in and of itself is not difficult, but because of the nature of curved walls, the studs will have been placed and spaced irregularly.
In a flat wall, the studs are equally distanced from each other for uniformity. This is not the case in a curved wall. Two studs might be 18 inches from each other, but the next stud won’t be for another 24 inches. A stud finder is the easiest way to determine the distance at which each 2×4 is placed.
If you do not mount your TV into studs, your drywall will not be able to take the combined weight of your TV and bracket, no matter the size. To avoid a drywall disaster, take the time to find and mark the location of the studs you will use.
The location of the studs might impact the kind of mount you buy, which is another reason why it’s crucial to know where the studs are in your wall.
Curve Degree
When mounting a flat television, you must be sure to compensate for the curvature of the wall. To do this, calculate the radius of your curvature.
Be mindful that the steeper the curve, the harder a TV will be to mount. The kind of mount you have will influence this, but there is only so much you can do if your wall is very tightly curved.
It is possible, that based on the degree of your curve and the placement of studs in your wall, you will need two different sized bolts to install your mounting bracket. This is yet another reason why knowing the degree of your curve is of the utmost importance.
Mounting
Bolts
Hers is the process for finding the radius of a curve: “To do this, place a straight ruler against the portion of the curved wall you plan on mounting your TV on. One end should be in contact with the wall. Ideally, this should be where the stud is located for mounting, while the other floats in front of the wall surface. Then, use a measuring tape to measure the difference (in inches) from the floating ruler end to the wall. The number you get is the wall’s radius of curvature.” Source
The radius of the curve will help you know the length of bolts you’ll need. Add the radius to the length of the bolt that is included with your mount. For instance, if your bolts are five inches long and the radius of the curve is three inches, you will need eight-inch bolts.
Leveling
It’s recommended that you take the extra few minutes to make sure your mount is level on the wall before you screw anything in. A simple leveling tool will take care of everything you need. When placing your level, line it up with the floor. If it isn’t, your TV will be at a slightly tilted angle, and that is not an easy fix to make.
Installation
For a curved wall, install the mounting bracket to the wall before anything else. Align the bolts with the holes in the mount, and align the mount with the marks you made on your wall.
Once everything is prepped, marked, and aligned, begin to drill the holes into place. If the mounting bracket is secured to the wall, it’s ready for the TV.
The back of the TV will fit right into the mount. Your TV will have mounting slots on its back that will attach to the bolts. If you feel comfortable that everything is secure, you’re good to go!
