Mount a TV on Plaster Walls

Pre-war NYC walls are often lath and plaster. Here’s what to consider before mounting a TV and when to call a pro.

Mounting a TV in a modern drywall apartment is different from mounting one on the lath-and-plaster walls found in many pre-war NYC buildings. The wall construction, framing and fastener choice matter, and the anchors supplied with a mount may not be appropriate for every wall.

Why Pre-War Walls Are Different

Many pre-war walls use thin wood lath covered by plaster. They can be hard and brittle, and locating framing may be less straightforward than on modern drywall. Do not assume a plastic drywall anchor is suitable for a heavy TV.

The Right Hardware

Option 1: Structural framing

When the mount location and wall construction allow it, fastening to verified structural framing is often the preferred approach. Confirm what is actually behind the wall rather than relying on a single stud-finder reading.

Option 2: Rated anchors for the actual wall assembly

If framing does not line up, the right solution depends on the wall assembly, mount, TV weight and anchor manufacturer’s rating. Heavy-duty toggles can be appropriate in some hollow-wall assemblies, but the load rating and installation requirements must match the real wall.

The Process

• Confirm wall construction and locate framing, utilities and other hidden obstacles before drilling.
• Use fasteners specifically rated for the wall assembly and the expected load.
• Use a level and a second person for large or heavy TVs.
• For cable routing, follow electrical and fire-safety requirements; use a surface raceway when in-wall routing is not appropriate.