Can I Put Acoustic Panels Behind My TV

Acoustic panels are designed to improve and enhance sound quality, whilst reducing echo and absorbing nose both internally and externally. This means acoustic wall panels are perfect for home entertainment and living rooms, particularly around televisions and sound systems. So, can you install acoustic wall panels directly behind a TV? This blog will answer this question by exploring how acoustic wall panels work, how to install acoustic panels, and how to choose the right panels for you and your home.

Why Consider Acoustic Panels Behind Your TV?

Hard, flat surfaces, such as those which are painted or tiled, can cause sound reflection and echo, both of which can distort and reduce the quality of sound from your TV. This is where acoustic wall panels can help. Installing acoustic wall panels behind your TV will help to remove both echo and distortion. Dialogue will be greatly enhanced, and you will enjoy a greater clarity of sound all round, improving your viewing experience considerably.

How Acoustic Panels Improve Home Theatre Sound

Acoustic panels are specifically designed to absorb unwanted sound reflections both internal and external whilst enhancing the listening experience within the room. This is why they are perfect for installing behind and around your home theatre. Clearer sound, improved legibility, and heightened sound quality are just some of the benefits you'll enjoy by choosing acoustic wall panels. Acoustic wall panels, such as those from National Plastics, are typically made from a combination of real wood, plastic, and felt ours are manufactured using 100% recycled plastic with sustainably sourced wood. The wooden surface of these panels is softer than a traditional painted or tiled surface, which helps to reduce echo, whilst the slats both absorb unwanted noise and enhance internal sound. This is what makes acoustic wall panels the ideal addition to your home theatre.

Can You Mount a TV on Acoustic Panels?

Yes, it is possible to mount a TV directly onto acoustic wall panels, but there are a few factors you need to bear in mind. Firstly, ensure your acoustic panels have been in situ for at least 24 hours. This will ensure the adhesive has had time to properly adhere to the wall and is completely secure. Secondly, the fastenings for the bracket or fixing must be able to go through the acoustic wall panel and into the wall behind. This anchor must also be able to reach the correct depth into the substrate, as advised by the bracket installation instructions. By doing this, you ensure that the weight of the TV is supported by the wall and not just the panel.

Best Acoustic Panel Placement for TVs

There is no one right way of placing acoustic wall panels, but there are a few general guidelines that could provide inspiration:

• Placing panels on the wall behind your TV, sound system, or home theatre will help to absorb early wall reflections.
• Installing acoustic panels on the wall behind your viewing or listening area will minimise wall reflections from behind you.
• For maximum sound enhancement, you can also fit acoustic panels to the side walls as well, to reduce primary reflections.

Acoustic Panel Designs and TV Wall Ideas

As well as being a practical addition to your home, acoustic wall panels are also incredibly stylish. They can be installed horizontally or vertically, with each offering a different design atheistic. They can also be combined with shelving and storage solutions to create a seamless entertainment 'wall'. Our acoustic wall panels are available in four colourways, washed oak, elegant oiled oak, contemporary oak, and ash grey. This means you are sure to find a panel that perfectly and beautifully blends into your existing décor.

How to Install Acoustic Panels Behind Your TV

Acoustic wall panels are quite straight forward to install, but we always recommend reading the manufacturer's instructions before you start, as installation instructions may differ from brand to brand. However, here is a brief overview of what the process involves:

1. Prepare Your Wall

   Before attaching anything, clean your wall thoroughly to remove debris and old nails. Ensure the surface is completely flat and even for optimal results.

2. Measure the Wall

   Measure the height and width of the area where you plan to install the wall panels. Mark the panel at these measurement points, as this is where you will cut. You will be installing the panels from left to right on the wall or from bottom to top (depending on your desired orientation).

3. Cut your panels

   To cut the slats, use a hand saw, circular saw or jigsaw. For a clean cut, place a strip of masking tape along your cut line. Use a Stanley knife to accurately cut the felt backing. Panels should be cut with the front face of the panel facing down (i.e. the decorative side of the panel). Measure the cut piece against the wall without adhesive to ensure a precise fit. Be sure to sand any rough edges using a 180-grit sandpaper.

4. Apply adhesive and attach to your wall

   Once you are confident the panel fits, apply the adhesive in a zig zag pattern on the back of the felt piece, ensuring even spacing along its length. We recommend a good quality grip and grab solvent free adhesive. Lift the panel into position (you may need assistance!), keeping it straight, and press it against the wall. Apply gentle pressure to ensure the adhesive adheres, holding it in place to allow the adhesive to set. After fixing the first panel to your wall, check the horizontal or vertical alignment with a spirit level to ensure it is straight. You are now ready to attach your next panel. Before pressing the panel onto the wall permanently you will need to make sure there is no gap between the panels and check their vertical or horizontal alignment again after each panel install.

Choosing the Right Acoustic Panels for Your Space

Choosing the right acoustic panels for your home is mostly down to your personal preference. However, there are a few factors to consider:

• The size of your room the size of your room may have an impact on the type of panel you choose. For example, if you are limited on space, smaller panels installed at TV and ear height may be more practical than larger floor to ceiling panels. All our panels measure 2,600mm by 600mm, but they are easy to cut to size and therefore perfectly suited to all sized rooms.
• Style of the room whether you're installing your new acoustic panels into an existing décor or starting a room from scratch, you want acoustic panels that reflect your style and that of your home.
• Budget as with any home improvement project your budget will have an impact on the panels you choose. However, we would always recommend buying the best acoustic panels your budget can stretch to. It is also worth bearing in mind the lifetime cost of the panel. It may be that paying slightly more initially for better quality panels, will save you in terms of replacement and repair costs in the long term.

Shop Acoustic Panels for Home Theatres at National Plastics

Whether you are looking to improve the acoustics in your home or want to add an eye-catching feature to your living room walls, our range of acoustic wall panels are the perfect choice. For further information or guidance call our friendly, expert team today on 0800 22 77 77.