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Wall Mounts
Many types of wall mount brackets are available.
However, many of them are poorly made and will not
withstand more than a moderate wind. Buy only the
best quality wall mount brackets (Figure 4-12).
When installing a wall mount, space the brackets as
far apart as possible (or practical). Generally, the
farther apart you space the brackets, the stronger the
installation will be. Be sure the brackets extend out
from the wall far enough for the mast to clear the roof
eaves. As with roof mounts, screw wall mount brack-
ets only into solid wood, and use caulking or other
durable sealant around screws.
Fig. 4-12. An example of a strong, durable wall-mount bracket.
Mounting from the Ground
Many times you will not want (or will not be able) to
mount an antenna on the roof. One of the best
alternatives to roof mounting is mounting from the
ground (Figure 4-13). With a firm base support and
one or more wall mount brackets, a ground mount
installation is exceptionally sturdy and long lasting. A
good ground mount may also eliminate the need of
guy wires.
Correctly preparing the base of a ground mount is
very important. The antenna mast should rest on
something more solid and stable than just bare earth.
If your installation site is on a solid deck or patio, the
base is already prepared for you.
When you have to prepare the base yourself, dig a
hold about 2 feet deep at the spot where the mast will
contact the ground. Remember that the base hole
must line up with the wall bracket(s) so that the mast
will be vertical. A plumb line and bob suspended from
the roof eave can be used to determine the correct
positions of the base hole and wall brackets (Figure
4-13). Use bricks or flat stones in the bottom of the
hole as a footing to prevent the base of the mast from
moving. Concrete can also be used as a footing but
you'll have to wait for it to dry before you can put up
the mast.
Once the base is prepared, mount a wall bracket at
least 10 feet above the ground or as high as possible.
Remember, the farther apart the wall brackets are
placed, the sturdier the installation (Figure 4-13). If
there is 5 feet or more left between the first wall
bracket and the roof eave, add another wall bracket.
Be sure the base hole and the wall brackets line up so
that the mast will be vertical. This can be determined
easily by suspending a plumb bob and line from the
roof eave into the base hole. Also remember that the
wall bracket(s) must extend out from the wall far
enough so that the mast clears the roof eaves. Be sure
the screws of each wall bracket are anchored in solid
wood. Screw them into the wall studs.
Fig. 4-13. A ground mounted installation showing good bracket
spacing and use of a plumb line and bob.
T
M
HA
R
OOLS,
ASTS &
RDWARE
EQUIREMENTS
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