Prep Work
After you’ve identified the place where you want to hang your new mirror, it’s important that you figure out a few facts so you can choose the right picture hanging system. First, check to see what kind of material your wall is made of. Different hardware is typically required for hanging mirrors on plaster or drywall. To check which kind you have, simply try poking a thumbtack into the wall. If it doesn’t go in very easily, it’s plaster — otherwise, it is drywall. Next, check to see how much your framed mirror weighs. The easiest way to do this is to use a bathroom scale.
By knowing your wall type and the weight of your mirror, you’ll be able to find an appropriate mirror hanging system at your local hardware store. Choosing hardware with the right weight capacity will ensure that your mirror doesn’t fall after you hang it up.
Making Marks
Once you’ve purchased a mirror hanging system, your next step is to make markings so you know where to insert the hooks on the wall. For safest results, you’ll want to get someone else to help you with this next phase, especially if you have a bulky, heavy mirror.
Hold the mirror up at the appropriate height, and then use a pencil to mark the top edge of the mirror on the wall. This line will serve as a reference point for the rest of your prep work.
Most mirror frames have either two D-rings or a wire on the back of the frame. These simple additions allow you to hang the mirror over two hooks in the wall, but you’ll need to make the proper measurements so that you can place the hooks in the right place. Otherwise, you might end up making a lot of unnecessary holes in the wall!
Place a mounting hook in the D-ring to imitate its position when hung, then use a tape measure or ruler to determine the height differential between the top of the mirror and the hole in the hook. Use your ruler to measure this distance on the wall and mark a line at the appropriate height below your original center line.
Next, you’ll need to measure the distance between the D-rings so that your wall hooks are far enough apart. The best way to do this is by using a level. Place one end of the level at one of the D-rings, then use a piece of tape to mark how far away the second D-ring is located. Place the level against the second line you made on the wall and use it to mark the spots where the hook mounts should be installed. Using a level (rather than a ruler or tape measure) will make it much easier to keep your measurements perfectly horizontal.
Final Installation
Now that you’ve made the appropriate markings, you’re ready to hang up the mirror! Start by securing the mirror hooks to the wall in the locations you marked. Check to see if you’re in line with a stud before doing this — if you’re not lined up with a stud, you’ll need to install a wall anchor first to keep the hooks securely in place. Some hardware stores offer combination wall anchor and screw products to make this process even easier.
Next, protect your wall by adding small rubber bumpers to the bottom corners on the back of your mirror. These can be stuck to your mirror in a matter of seconds, and can go a long way in preventing scratches and other damage.
With the hooks and bumpers in place, you can lift the mirror and gently place it on the hooks. Be sure to enlist some extra help if you’re hanging a large mirror so you don’t injure yourself. By following these steps, your mirror will beautify your home for years to come !
