TV mounted over fireplace

12 years ago

I see lots of rooms with a flat screen tv mounted above a fireplace, but my builder thinks it's not a good idea..is the heat from the fireplace a problem? I am planning to use a gas, actually propane, fireplace.

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PRO

David J Gill

12 years ago

Heat from the fireplace is not likely to be a problem for your flat screen TV. I say that without any special knowledge about the different type of TV screens available. Be sure to read the installation instructions before you buy. But we see this idea all the time and everybody seems to love it....I don't know why, because I don't think it is such a great idea.

I probably have an atypical attitude about this, but I think, #1... it is kind of tacky. And, more importantly, #2...The TV is often mounted too high for comfortable viewing when it is mounted over the fireplace.

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Comments (6)

PRO
VizX Design Studios, LLC
12 years ago
I think it is a preference thing. A fireplace are is a chill zone to relax and have great conversations. A TV will take away from the conversations.
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Ed
12 years ago
last modified: 12 years ago
Hi marwinree, I agree with David on both #1 and more importantly, #2. This is a very popular question here on Design Dilemma. And indeed David's and my views are in the minority.
An ideal height for the TV's center is slightly _below_ eye level when seated. This means a TV above the fireplace is most definitely too high -- you would have to crank your neck up, or look up with your eyes, or both. To me that's a very awkward position to be watching TV "comfortably".
Laura McAree
12 years ago
Look at all the beautiful living rooms, very few of them have a tv. The TV becomes the focal point of the room and all seating must point towards it.
Have you considered a projector for movies etc? And a TV in the kitchen for watching the news etc?

Also I agree it would be too high unless you have a rather large room where you would be sitting quite far back for it?
dianecourbat
12 years ago
I was taught not to hang valuable artwork above the fireplace because it could be damaged by the heat and smoke. The same thing would apply to a TV. About eye level when seated is the most comfortable height.
janetinthecountry
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks to everyone who responded to my question, your input was helpful.