MantelMount Pull-Down TV Mount Installation in Atlanta | Fireplace TV Solutions
You’ve heard the advice: “Never mount a TV above a fireplace.” The screen sits too high, forces uncomfortable viewing angles, and creates neck strain that makes binge-watching miserable.
But what if your living room layout requires that prime fireplace wall for the TV? What if that’s the only spot that makes sense for your furniture arrangement and your family’s viewing habits?
Enter the MantelMount—the engineering solution that lets you enjoy the aesthetics of an above-fireplace TV while bringing the screen down to perfect viewing height whenever you’re watching.
At Express Mounting, we’ve installed hundreds of MantelMount systems across Atlanta, helping homeowners solve the high-fireplace TV dilemma without compromising on comfort or design.
What Is a MantelMount?
A MantelMount is a premium pull-down TV mounting system that allows you to:
- Mount your TV above the fireplace at the ideal aesthetic height
- Pull the screen down and forward to comfortable viewing level when in use
- Return it to the high position when you’re done watching
It’s the best of both worlds: the clean, centered look of a fireplace-mounted TV combined with the ergonomic viewing angles of a properly positioned screen.
How MantelMount Works
The system uses a counter-balanced mechanism (similar to gym equipment) that makes a heavy TV feel nearly weightless during adjustment:
- Pull handles on the TV or press a button (motorized models)
- The TV glides down smoothly using internal gas pistons
- Position at your preferred viewing height (most models drop 20-30+ inches)
- Swivel left or right to adjust viewing angle
- Return to raised position with gentle push (or button press)
The counter-balance is calibrated to your specific TV’s weight, so operation requires minimal effort regardless of screen size.
Why Above-Fireplace TVs Need MantelMount
The Problem with High-Mounted TVs
When TVs sit more than a few inches above eye level, viewers experience:
Neck strain and discomfort
- Looking up strains neck muscles
- Extended viewing causes stiffness and pain
- Poor posture becomes habitual
Compromised picture quality
- Most TVs look best viewed straight-on
- Extreme angles reduce color accuracy
- Glare issues increase with steep angles
Uncomfortable viewing positions
- Reclined seating becomes necessary
- Some family members can’t see well
- Long movies become physically unpleasant
Typical Fireplace TV Height Problems
| Seating Distance | Ideal TV Center Height | Typical Fireplace Mount Height | Height Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 feet | 42-44 inches | 55-65 inches | 13-23 inches too high |
| 10 feet | 42-44 inches | 55-65 inches | 13-23 inches too high |
| 12 feet | 42-44 inches | 55-65 inches | 13-23 inches too high |
That 13-23 inch difference translates directly to neck strain and poor viewing angles.
The MantelMount Solution
With MantelMount, your TV lives at the aesthetically-pleasing fireplace height when off, but drops 20-30+ inches to proper viewing level when in use:
| MantelMount Model | Maximum Drop | Result |
|---|---|---|
| MM340 | 15.4 inches | Good for moderate height issues |
| MM540 | 27 inches | Solves most fireplace scenarios |
| MM700 | 27 inches | Premium features, same drop |
| MM860 | 32 inches | Maximum drop for extreme heights |
MantelMount Models Compared
MantelMount MM340 (Entry Level)
Best for: Moderate height issues, tighter budgets
- Maximum drop: 15.4 inches
- Weight capacity: Up to 90 lbs
- TV size: 44” - 80”
- Swivel: 30° left/right
- Pull-down operation only (manual)
Ideal when: Your fireplace isn’t extremely high and you need basic pull-down functionality.
MantelMount MM540 (Most Popular)
Best for: Most above-fireplace installations
- Maximum drop: 27 inches
- Weight capacity: Up to 90 lbs
- TV size: 44” - 80”
- Swivel: 45° left/right
- Heat-sensing handles (turn red above 90°F)
- Integrated soundbar attachment option
Ideal when: You want serious drop capability with added features at a reasonable price.
MantelMount MM700 (Premium Manual)
Best for: Demanding installations with premium expectations
- Maximum drop: 27 inches
- Weight capacity: Up to 115 lbs
- TV size: 44” - 90”
- Swivel: 60° left/right
- Auto-straightening technology
- Recess adapter compatibility
- Premium finish quality
Ideal when: You have a larger TV, want maximum swivel range, or need premium aesthetics.
MantelMount MM860 (Motorized)
Best for: Ultimate convenience and accessibility
- Maximum drop: 32 inches
- Weight capacity: Up to 115 lbs
- TV size: 44” - 90”
- Swivel: 60° left/right
- Remote control operation
- Smart home integration (Alexa, Google Home, Control4)
- Memory positions
Ideal when: You want push-button convenience, have mobility limitations, or want smart home integration.
Professional MantelMount Installation: Why It Matters
MantelMount installation is significantly more complex than standard TV mounting. Here’s what makes professional installation essential:
Weight and Leverage Considerations
A MantelMount system multiplies the effective wall load because the TV extends outward:
- 50-lb TV + 15-lb mount = 65 lbs static weight
- Extended 18 inches forward = 140+ lbs effective leverage on bracket
This means mounting hardware must be dramatically over-engineered compared to standard flat mounts.
Counter-Balance Calibration
MantelMount’s smooth operation depends on proper calibration:
- Each TV weight requires specific gas piston adjustment
- Incorrect calibration makes the TV drop too fast or feel too heavy
- Fine-tuning ensures effortless one-hand operation
Electrical and Cable Management
Pull-down mounts require special cable considerations:
- Cables must accommodate 27+ inches of vertical travel
- Power and HDMI need service loops that extend without binding
- In-wall power may need repositioning
- Soundbar integration adds complexity
Heat Assessment
Above-fireplace installations always require heat evaluation:
- Infrared thermometry during fire operation
- Mantel clearance assessment
- Potential heat shield installation
- Ventilation space verification
Structural Requirements
MantelMount demands solid structural mounting:
- Minimum two wood studs (16” or 24” spacing)
- May require blocking installation for proper spacing
- Masonry requires special anchoring systems
- Some fireplaces need custom solutions
Our MantelMount Installation Process
Step 1: Pre-Installation Consultation
Before we arrive, we discuss:
- Your TV specifications (size, weight, VESA pattern)
- Fireplace type and dimensions
- Desired drop height and viewing position
- Cable management preferences
- Soundbar integration needs
- Smart home integration requirements (for MM860)
Step 2: Site Assessment
On installation day, we begin with thorough evaluation:
Wall structure analysis:
- Stud location mapping
- Wall material identification
- Electrical/plumbing obstruction check
Heat assessment:
- Infrared temperature readings
- Fire operation observation if possible
- Heat mitigation recommendations
Cable routing planning:
- Existing outlet locations
- Optimal cable pathway
- Service loop requirements
Step 3: Structural Preparation
If your wall isn’t ready for MantelMount’s demands:
- Add blocking between studs for optimal bracket placement
- Install heavy-duty toggle systems for steel stud walls
- Create masonry anchor points for brick/stone surrounds
- Relocate electrical if outlets interfere with mounting
Step 4: Mount Installation
Precision installation includes:
- Laser-guided leveling for perfect alignment
- Multiple lag bolt attachment points
- Torque-controlled fastening
- Weight distribution verification
- Structural integrity testing
Step 5: Counter-Balance Calibration
We fine-tune your specific setup:
- Adjust gas piston tension for your TV weight
- Test operation through full range of motion
- Verify smooth, controlled movement
- Calibrate safety stops
Step 6: Cable Management
Professional cable handling for pull-down operation:
- Install service loops with appropriate slack
- Route through MantelMount’s cable management channels
- Connect power with adequate extension
- Test all connections through full travel range
- Conceal cables in raised and lowered positions
Step 7: Final Configuration
Before we leave:
- Program remote (MM860)
- Set memory positions if applicable
- Demonstrate operation to homeowner
- Test all connected devices
- Provide care and operation instructions
MantelMount Installation Pricing in Atlanta
Basic MantelMount Installation
Starting at $299 (mount not included)
- Professional mounting of customer-supplied MantelMount
- Counter-balance calibration
- Basic cable management
- Operation demonstration
Standard MantelMount Package
Starting at $449 (mount not included)
- Everything in Basic, plus:
- Enhanced cable management with service loops
- Single cable concealment run
- Post-installation adjustment within 30 days
Premium MantelMount Package
Starting at $649 (mount not included)
- Everything in Standard, plus:
- In-wall cable concealment
- Power outlet relocation if needed
- Soundbar integration
- Heat shield installation if required
MantelMount MM860 Motorized Installation
Starting at $549 (mount not included)
- Professional installation
- Electrical connection for motor
- Remote programming
- Smart home integration setup
- Memory position configuration
Mount pricing varies by model. We can supply MantelMounts at competitive prices or install customer-supplied units.
Fireplace Compatibility Guide
Wood-Burning Fireplaces
Heat concerns: Most significant—active fires generate substantial heat
Our approach:
- Infrared testing with fire at full burn
- Minimum 12” clearance above mantel recommended
- Heat shield installation when needed
- May recommend MM860’s maximum drop for greatest clearance
Gas Fireplaces
Heat concerns: Moderate—controlled heat output, but still significant
Our approach:
- Test with fireplace running 30+ minutes
- Most direct-vent gas fireplaces acceptable with proper clearance
- Heat shields optional but recommended
- Standard MantelMount models usually sufficient
Electric Fireplaces
Heat concerns: Minimal—heat directed forward, not upward
Our approach:
- Generally safe for standard installation
- Minimal clearance requirements
- Ideal candidates for MantelMount
- Full range of models appropriate
No Fireplace (Decorative Mantel)
Heat concerns: None
Our approach:
- Most straightforward installations
- Any MantelMount model appropriate
- Focus on aesthetics and functionality
- Often best candidates for in-wall cable concealment
Soundbar Integration with MantelMount
MantelMount offers excellent soundbar mounting options:
Integrated Soundbar Bracket
MantelMount’s soundbar adapter attaches soundbars directly to the TV mount, so they travel together:
- Soundbar drops with TV
- Maintains optimal speaker-to-ear alignment
- Eliminates separate mounting
- Available for most MantelMount models
Compatible soundbar sizes: Up to 42” wide, 15 lbs
Independent Soundbar Mounting
For larger soundbars or aesthetic preferences, we can:
- Mount soundbar on mantel separately
- Install below MantelMount at fixed position
- Create drop-down soundbar solution to match TV travel
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is it to pull down a MantelMount?
With proper calibration, almost effortless. The counter-balance system means you’re only overcoming friction, not lifting TV weight. Most people operate it with one hand.
Can I install MantelMount on brick or stone?
Yes, but it requires specialized masonry anchoring. We use concrete sleeve anchors or chemical anchors rated for the significant leverage forces involved.
Will MantelMount work with my TV?
MantelMount supports TVs from 44” to 90” with VESA patterns from 200x200 to 600x400. Weight limits vary by model (90-115 lbs). Most modern flat-panel TVs are compatible.
How far does the TV come away from the wall?
MantelMount extends approximately 18” forward when in the lowered position, allowing clearance from mantels and bringing the screen to a more comfortable viewing distance.
Can MantelMount be recessed into the wall?
MantelMount offers recess adapter kits that allow the mount to sit inside a recessed wall cavity, creating a flush appearance when raised. This requires wall modification during installation.
Is MantelMount safe around children?
MantelMount includes safety features like pinch-free operation and controlled descent. The weight calibration prevents accidental drops. However, we recommend supervising young children around any adjustable mount.
How do cables work when the TV moves?
We install service loops—extra cable length coiled behind the TV that extends as the mount lowers. Properly installed, cables never bind or pull regardless of TV position.
Can I add MantelMount to an existing TV installation?
Yes. We frequently replace standard fixed or tilt mounts with MantelMount systems. The process involves removing the old mount, patching if needed, and installing MantelMount with fresh hardware.
Alternatives to MantelMount
While MantelMount is the premium solution, alternatives exist:
Down and Out Mounts
Example: Dynamic Mounting Down and Out
- Similar pull-down functionality
- Generally lower price point
- Less refined mechanism
- Fewer model options
Motorized Ceiling Drops
- TV drops from ceiling-mounted position
- More complex installation
- Higher cost
- Eliminates fireplace placement entirely
Tilt Mounts
- Simple tilt toward viewer
- Much lower cost
- Doesn’t address height problem significantly
- Compromised solution
No Fireplace Mounting
- Relocate TV to different wall
- Ideal ergonomically
- May not suit room layout
- Doesn’t solve the aesthetic desire
Service Areas for MantelMount Installation
We install MantelMount systems throughout Metro Atlanta:
North Atlanta: Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Milton, Cumming, Dunwoody
Central Atlanta: Buckhead, Midtown, Brookhaven, Virginia-Highland, Decatur
East Atlanta: Tucker, Stone Mountain, Lawrenceville
West Atlanta: Marietta, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw
South Atlanta: Peachtree City, Fayetteville, Newnan
Ready to Solve Your High Fireplace TV Problem?
Stop craning your neck and start enjoying your TV the way it was meant to be watched. MantelMount gives you the stunning above-fireplace aesthetic without the ergonomic compromise.
Express Mounting brings the expertise to install it right:
✅ Proper structural mounting for safety
✅ Perfect counter-balance calibration
✅ Professional cable management for smooth operation
✅ Heat assessment and protection when needed
✅ Soundbar integration options
✅ Same-day and next-day availability
👉 Visit ExpressMounting.com to schedule your MantelMount consultation and free quote.
📍 Express Mounting — Atlanta’s MantelMount installation specialists.