TV Mounting in British Columbia

Small TVs (under about 40 inches) can go on hollow drywall with heavy-duty toggle anchors rated for the load, but most professionals prefer to hit at least one stud or install a plywood backing board. For TVs over 50 inches, mounting into studs or masonry is strongly recommended — anchor-only installs on hollow walls are the most common cause of fallen TVs.

Yes if done properly, but check two things: heat (run the fireplace for 30 minutes and confirm the wall above stays below about 40C / 100F, or fit a mantel to deflect heat) and viewing angle (a pull-down or tilting mount stops neck strain). Above-fireplace installs cost more because the wall is usually brick or stone and cable routing is harder.

Yes — brick and concrete are actually stronger than drywall for mounting. The installer uses a hammer drill and masonry anchors (sleeve or wedge anchors). It costs more than a stud wall because drilling is slower and cable concealment usually has to run in surface trunking rather than inside the wall.

Fixed mounts sit flattest against the wall and are cheapest. Tilting mounts angle down 5-15 degrees — useful when the TV sits above eye level. Full-motion (articulating) mounts extend and swivel, which suits corner installs or rooms with multiple viewing positions; they cost the most and need the most secure fixing because the load hangs away from the wall.

Yes — high-rise condo party walls and exterior walls are often poured concrete, mounted with wedge or sleeve anchors using a hammer drill. Expect a premium over drywall rates, surface raceway instead of in-wall concealment, and check your condo bylaws: some boards restrict drilling hours or require notice.

A licensed electrician only. In Ontario, the work must be done or declared through an ESA-licensed contractor; other provinces have equivalent bodies (e.g., Technical Safety BC). Many TV installers partner with an electrician — bundling it into one visit typically costs less than two call-outs.