Reusing an old mount for a new TV

New TV, same wall. The bracket already up there looks fine — can the new set go straight onto it? Frequently it can, and it saves money. Run through these checks first.

1. Weight

Find the mount's rating (stamped on the plate, printed on a label or in the model's manual) and compare it with the new TV's weight without its stand. New TVs are usually lighter than old ones of the same size, so upgrading from an older 55 to a new 65 often still fits the rating. If you can't find a rating at all, don't guess with a large TV.

2. VESA pattern

Measure the hole spacing on the back of the new TV, in millimetres, horizontal × vertical. The mount's vertical arms need holes or slots at that spacing. Bigger TVs commonly use 400×400 or 600×400; a mount bought for a 40-inch TV with a 200×200 pattern won't reach.

3. Size and coverage

Will the wall plate and arms hide behind the new TV? If you're going smaller, the plate may stick out past the edges. If you're going much bigger, check that the arms are tall enough to reach the mounting holes and that the TV won't hit a mantel or soundbar.

4. The TV-side hardware

New TVs may need a different screw size (M6 vs M8) or length, and many have a curved or recessed back that needs spacers. The screws that fit your old TV may not fit the new one. Never force a screw into the TV.

5. Condition of the mount

• Bent plate or arms? Replace.
• On full-motion arms: sagging, loose joints, or a tilt that won't hold? The friction parts wear out.
• Rust, cracked welds, stripped locking screws? Replace.
• A recalled model? Search the brand and model number.

6. The wall

Give the mounted bracket a firm pull. No movement, no creaks. Check that the lag bolts are tight (snug them, don't crank). If the bracket was held with drywall anchors rather than studs, this is the moment to do it properly.

7. Position

The centre of the new, larger TV will be at the same height as the old one, so its bottom edge will be lower. Make sure it still clears furniture, and consider whether the old height was right in the first place — many are too high. Moving a bracket means new holes, but the old ones hide behind the TV.

When to start fresh

• You're changing mount style (fixed to full-motion).
• The new TV is much heavier or the pattern doesn't fit.
• The old mount is an unknown brand with no rating.
• You're moving to a new wall anyway.

What it costs with us

If your existing bracket suits the new TV, choose "I have one" — you pay labor only, from $94. We'll take the old TV down, check the bracket and bolts, and hang the new one. Want the old set gone? Haul-away is $29.