How to Build a TV Lift Cabinet - for Under $300

Want to make the perfect TV Lift Cabinet? Have you found the perfect spot for your TV but don't want it showing all the time? Maybe you need to save on space but can't find the right TV stand.

If the cost of a TV lift and the tv lift cabinet has you nervous, we've got good news for you. Keep reading to find out how to build your own furniture and get a great TV lift without busting your budget.

We have created a Full blog post and step by step guide with video on how you can build your own TV lift cabinet that can be used outdoors here

Materials List

• One- 4'x8' x 1/4″ plywood board ($32 each)
• seven 2"x4" x 8' wood for the framing. ($2.34 each)
• Rear Mount TV Lift ($390)
• Piano hinge if opting for the Flip Back lid style cabinet. ($8)
• 1.25″ nails ($4)
• Wood glue ($6)
• Legs (if desired)
• 2 packs of Hardwood flooring for finishing the outside and the lid (497 per pack x 2)
• 220-grit sandpaper ($2)

When turned on or activated, the TV lift uses electrical energy to activate a linear actuator. Your TV is attached to this actuator mechanism. At the push of a button, the linear actuator either pushes the TV up or pulls it back down.

Since the TV lift is powered by electricity, you'll need access to a wall outlet when you install it. 

Rear mount TV lifts can be mounted to an existing structure, like a tv lift cabinet or console. TV lifts can also attach to the floor. Let's take a look at the differences between floor-mounted and rear-mounted TV lifts.

Floor Mount

In some cases, consumers want a TV lift but don't want to attach it to a stand, console, or cabinet. When this happens, it makes more sense to mount it to the floor and place an object in front of or behind it.

A floor mount TV lift is a great option if the console or furniture you have doesn't have a back or has a different shape. Using a floor-mount model, you can attach the TV lift to the floor and place it inside of the console or cabinet.

This looks as if the TV is attached without having to drill into your furniture.

Rear Mount

Rear mount TV lifts are great for attaching to your furniture. If your cabinet or console has a sturdy back this is a great option. 

If the piece of furniture housing your TV is a regular rectangle, you shouldn't have any problems attaching a rear mount TV lift.

Rear mount TV lifts are a great way to avoid placing holes in your floor as well.

Now that you've decided on a floor model vs. a mounted model, think about the top of your console or cabinet. Would you like the top of your cabinet to flip back or stay put? 

Fixed

This is where the lid of the tv lift cabinet is fixed. A fixed lid is attached to the top of the TV lift and stays there the entire time your TV is up. This eliminates the need for hinges and keeps the lid fixed in place at all times.

Fixed TV lift lids are ideal for homes without curious little hands. If a child's hands are in the way while the TV is lowering, the weight of the lift and TV will come down on their fingers. Even with a protection mechanism in place, this can cause serious damage.

Tiny fingers can be saved by attaching the TV cabinet lid to the TV lift with strong magnets. If something gets in the way, the lid will separate from the TV lift, freeing any little digits in its way.

The advantage to fixed TV lift lids on your tv lift cabinet is their ability to lift up whatever may be on them. You can place a cup of coffee or a favorite figurine on the console and it won't be tipped over when the TV lift is activated.

Flipped

Some people may be distracted by something on top of the TV. If this describes you, the flipped lid is your best option.

Don't worry about the TV hitting the top of your cabinet each time it pops up. Each lift is designed with rollers to prevent the lid from touching your TV.

The flipped lid can be a finger saver as well. If you have little ones who may have their hands in the way while the TV is lowering, only the weight of the lid will be felt.

If you tend to leave items lying around, the flip option may not be for you. Imagine leaving a beverage or glass on your TV stand. If it's not moved when the TV lift is activated, you could have a real mess on your hands.

Here is a picture of the 1st step in the cabinet-making process - making the frame from 2x4's. The TV Lift mechanism has been added here to show how the system work in the frame. Below are the step-by-step instructions on making the frame for a cabinet that holds a 50" TV. Adjust the frame size depending on the TV size you wish to install.

To read the full instructions on how to make this TV cabinet step by step please visit our blog page here

https://www.firgelliauto.com/blogs/tv-lifts/how-to-build-a-tv-lift-cabinet