Wall versus ceiling; pros and cons

With the fairly recent advent of flat screen TV technology, we are now faced with several different options related to how and where to mount the television. It used to be that choosing where to put the new TV involved either arranging the room around the spot where the TV would sit, or purchasing an additional piece of furniture to function as a TV stand, either by design or by adaptation, or possibly both. (At the risk of dating myself, I still remember the absolutely massive console TV we had when I was a kid, in all of its artificial wood grain glory.) However, the availability and increasing affordability of the wall mount flat screen TV and similar home entertainment products have opened up a whole new world of possibilities.

When deciding how and where to mount your new TV, here are a few pros and cons related to both of the mounting options that may be worth considering.

Wall Mount Pros:

• It’s out of the way, both physically and visually.
• It can be almost seamlessly integrated into the room decor
• There are almost endless options regarding placement height.

Cons:

• Room seating may need to be adjusted for optimal viewing.
• May be somewhat less flexible.
• May be limited by the room design. (For example, you probably wouldn’t want to put a wall mount flat screen TV over the fireplace.)

Notes: If you’re looking for a wall mount system, make sure you get one that can adapt to any future needs which may present themselves.

Ceiling Mount Pros:

The placement of the new TV is less dependent upon the shape and size of the room.

• Seating options become much more flexible.
• Creates a very sleek, high-tech appearance.
• The availability of ceiling TV lifts creates additional upscale appearance.

Cons:

• May present a potential ‘head-bump’ hazard, depending on placement.
• Height may cause fatigue during extended viewing sessions.
• May obstruct views of windows, etc.
• May be limited by design features such as cathedral ceilings, etc.

Notes: Some newer mounting systems can make any seat in the room an optimal viewing spot.

If you’re planning to update your family’s entertainment system, you’ll want to fully investigate all the options available to you. They’re all good, and some are simply mind-boggling.