TV mounting
in California

California is earthquake country, and that shapes how a TV should hang: the mount goes into the wall studs with lag bolts, never into drywall alone. Most homes in the Sacramento area, the Central Valley and the newer suburbs are stucco outside and drywall on wood studs inside, often with a gas fireplace on the main wall. Older homes are different — San Francisco Victorians and 1920s Spanish-style houses in Los Angeles and San Diego usually have plaster walls. Covered patios are used most of the year, so outdoor TVs are a common request.

Whatever the wall, the rule is the same: the installer checks it with you and you approve the spot before anything is drilled.