Hanging a Large Wall Mirror



Posted: Monday, July 27, 2009

by Julia Ritzenthaler
JLR Enterprise

Hanging a large wall mirror in your home is a big job. Read the instructions well and read on in this article for helpful tips on working with heavy mirrors and the special tools and equipment that can aid your process.

The first step in this process is to determine where you want to hang your new mirror. Be sure to clear the area first, for instance, clear off the top of a mantle if that is where the mirror is going. Clear the fireplace mantle or dresser top. And if the space is tight, you might consider moving the dresser out of the way entirely for the duration of the job. Measure and then mark the wall at the hanging location.

The next step is to locate the wall studs. You can do this by tapping on the wall with your hammer; if the sound is hollow or has an echo to it, there is no stud; if the sound is firm and more solid sounding, you have found your stud. An electronic stud finder would also work, you can find that at your local hardware store. Once you've located the studs, use heavy duty screws and screw directly into the stud. They eliminate the need for pre-drilling and will create a secure hold for the screw. If you have trouble finding the studs, then look for drywall anchors or toggle clamp anchors. Drywall screws require the pre drilling of the hole and they offer a bit more security than using just a screw when you are not drilling into a stud. For the toggle clamps, you drill the screw right into the toggle clamp and no pre-drilling is required, but the difference is that these flip open like a butterfly once firmly inside the wall. If you have trouble finding the stud, this is why these are very helpful.

Now that your wall is prepared for hanging, you need to prepare the back of the mirror for hanging. Most hardware stores sell kits with everything you need. They are often called picture hanging kits. They come with a variety of different wall nails, hooks, tacks, small anchors, and most importantly artists' wire. Follow the instructions for applying the hooks to the back of the mirror, put one on each side toward the upper left and right, make them as even as possible. Then following the instructions on the kit, affix the artist's wire to each hook. Give the wire a tug to ensure its stability. You are ready to hang your large mirror. Position the wire over the anchored screws in the wall and hang. The wire will provide easy straightening, step back and make sure it's straight and that you are happy with the job.

Safety should always be the top priority for any home installation project. On something like this, where a heavy object is in use, it's a good idea to work with a buddy. If you become uncomfortable with the job at any point, please consider hiring a professional.

Copyright (c) 2009 Julia Ritzenthaler

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Julia Ritzenthaler is Owner of boutique online furniture stores, http://www.UniqueVanities.com, http://www.UniqeMirrorsOnline.com, & http://www.UniqueLightFixture.com. For more information about large wall mirror options and discount mirrors, visit us online or email us with your questions at uniquevanities@msn.com.
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