If you’re hoping to turn your fireplace focal point into your entertainment center for the room, it’s important to look at all the factors that go into safely mounting a TV over your fireplace. It is possible, but there are steps you must take to ensure that the heat from your fireplace is sufficiently directed away from the TV.
Check The TempThe first, and probably most important step in checking whether your TV can withstand the temperatures from your fireplace is to use a thermometer over your running fireplace for a few hours. This will help you gauge how much heat reaches the wall where you’re hoping to mount the TV. If the temperature reaches or exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s safe to say you cannot safely mount your TV above your fireplace. If the temperature remains below 100 degrees it is possible, however, there are still other factors to be considered.
How high will the TV need to be mounted? If your fireplace is too high, it may make enjoying your TV uncomfortable. Considering that the average home’s ceiling height is 8 feet and the average fireplace mantel rests around 4-5 feet tall, you’re not left with much wiggle room for placing the TV at a comfortable and visually appealing height.
If your TV is mounted flat against the wall above your fireplace it could make viewing from a love seat or sofa difficult from an angle. The best solution for this dilemma is to mount your TV using swivels that will allow you to tilt the TV downward when in use and push it flat against the wall when not in use for a better visual display.
Creating an alcove for your TV to be mounted in can help you avoid some of the excessive heat from your fireplace. An alcove is a sort of indent in your wall that is intended to house your TV out of the line of the combustibles and heat coming from your fireplace.
One other way you could accomplish this same affect is by building the proper mantel. This would be one that extends out of the wall above the fireplace creating a sort of blockage directing the heat away from the TV.
Our team of experts are here to help you build the perfect fireplace and entertainment center combo. We offer an array of chimney and fireplace services from inspections and cleanings to installations and remodels. No matter your fireplace needs, we want to deliver the perfect solution for your home. Give us call today at 800-631-6177 or contact us online to get started on the fireplace setup of your dreams!
