If you’re looking to get constant, uninterrupted signals, then setting up your antenna on the roof of your house is the best method to successfully achieve this. Putting up your TV antenna on the roof, as opposed to mounting it in the attic, helps create a clear signal reception from the broadcast towers to your device.
Without any obstructions from the line of sight, it’s certainly the best option to get the most out of your cable subscription.
However, many are unaware of how to install a TV antenna on the roof. And installing the antenna at such a height might seem daunting at first. But with the help of this guideline, you can use your tripod mount or a handful of other tools to safely secure your TV antenna in no time!
Method 1: Using a Tripod Mount
The proper signal is one of the major factors in watching your favourite show. It lets you enjoy clear high-resolution videos matching with your big-screen HDTV properly. And to do so, setting up your TV antenna with the help of a tripod mount is the safest way of installing it.
It will also let you set up your antenna at a height that’s away from any obstruction or interference.
Tools You’ll Need
- Tripod mount
- Stud finder
- 10mm drill
- Screwdriver
- Crescent wrench
- Pitch pads
- Level
- Tape measure
- Pliers
Step 1: Find a Clear Spot on the Roof
Locate a spot on your roof that isn’t obstructed by any wires or cables, and has a free range of signals. Free space is also important for the antenna to function properly.
Find your local broadcast tower and the compass heading direction in degrees. Make sure there aren’t any obstructions such as buildings or trees that could interfere with the signal.
Step 2: Setup the Tripod
Use a stud finder to set the center of the rafter and mark each spot with chalk or marker. These spots will hold the legs of the tripod, so make sure you set it on the crown of the rooftop.
Extend each leg of the tripod onto the three marks, over the rafters. Make sure the tripod is fully straight using a level, if necessary.
Step 3: Install the Mast
Set the antenna mast down the center clamp of the rafter, use the crescent wrench or pliers to tighten the clamp and set the mast into place.
Apply the stud detector to make sure the feet are perfectly straight. And use your level to keep the mast straight (vertically) on the center of the rafter.
Step 4: Drill the Holes
Apply the pitch pads under each of the feet before setting the screws in it. This prevents any future leaks from happening.
Set the feet down on the center and drill ½ inch holes through the feet on each leg. Make sure the screws are set through the pads and onto the rafters. Use your screws and screwdriver to set up the tripod to the rafters, remember to tighten each screw before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Setup the Antenna and Cables
Install the antenna to the mast with clamps and further tighten it with pliers, if necessary. It’s best to mount the antenna close to any existing cables, which will save you a significant amount of wire.
Find the direction of the broadcast towers and point the antenna towards the towers and apply the clamps to set the antenna onto place once you locate it. Connect the coaxial cable to the antenna from the TV and readjust the antenna if required until you receive proper signal.
If your house is already hardwired with coaxial cables from any previous owners, locate where the existing cables enter the home and follow that to install the new ones.
Method 2: Using a Universal Antenna Mount
This method is applicable for any typical outdoor antenna mount you can find in your local hardware store. Using this method you can also install high-quality omnidirectional TV antennas.
Although this might not be as easy as mounting the antenna using a tripod, it’s certainly more reliable for any general antenna kit, as this can be used for installing both on the roof and just outdoors.
Tools You’ll Need
- Power drill
- Ladder
- 1/8-inch drill bit
- Level
- Nut-setter drill bit
- Zip ties
- Cable wire cutter
- 3/8-inch socket wrench
Step 1: Install the Universal Antenna Mount
Use the baseplate of the antenna mount to mark the location of the spots you need to drill. And drill four pilot holes on the marked spots using a 1/8-inch drill bit. Use the lab bolts and power drill to attach the antenna mount along the holes on the rafter. You can use pitch pads or foam seals if you’re worried about any leakage.
Set a level on top of the mount to check if it’s straight and set it into place by adjusting the mounting brace at the base of the pole.
Step 2: Attach the Nest Assembly to the Mount
Slide down the U-bolt nest from the top of the mount onto the center and tighten it using the included nuts with a wrench to secure it into place.
Step 3: Attach the Coaxial Cable
Insert the coaxial cable through the inside of the mast, which would reach the antenna on the top. Attach a drip loop on the top of the cable to avoid any water from damaging the connection.
Connect the coaxial cable from the antenna to the TV set. If your universal antenna mount requires a power outlet, then remember to set up your mount close to an already existing outlet using a power adapter.
Follow This Guideline to Get the Best out of Your Cable Connection!
Although it may seem daunting but setting up an outdoor TV antenna even in rural areas isn’t exactly rocket science. With proper equipment, knowledge, and patience, you can install your cable without paying extra for it!
Installing your TV antenna is just as easy as purchasing the right antenna kits at your local hardware store!
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