Hanging a Heavy, Framed Mirror that Has No Wire or Hardware
Hanging a heavy framed mirror can seem a little tricky because you are handling something that is very fragile and it is important that it is secured firmly on the wall. While it is always preferable that you get professionals to hang your mirror, we do have a few DIY mirror installation tips that you might find helpful.
Location of the Mirror
Your first step should be locating the perfect spot for installing your mirror. Make sure you hang it at a comfortable eye level so viewers can easily see themselves in it. It is a good idea to get a friend to hold the mirror against the wall where you want to install it and mark the outline with a pencil. This will help guide the location of the hardware you must attach on the wall.
Looking for Wall Studs
Next you must locate the wall studs where you will attach the screws or nails that will support your mirror. Remember, sticking hardware into the plaster or drywall is not a good idea because they might not be strong enough the take the weight of your mirror. To locate the studs, pick up a stud finder. These devices are easily available at your local hardware store. You could also try tapping on the wall to find the studs but this method is not nearly as accurate. When you find the studs mark them out with a pencil.
Buying the Hardware
Weigh your mirror on a bathroom scale. You can buy the necessary hardware for installing your mirror according its weight. You will need two D-rings, wall anchors, screws, heavy-duty mirror wire, eye screws and hardy picture-hanging hooks. All these items are typically available as a part of a complete kit but you can buy them separately also.
Attaching the D-rings and Screw Eyes
Mark out two points on the vertical edges of the back of the mirror, 6 inches from its top edge. Drill holes at these points using a drill bit. Attach the two D-rings on these spots with the screws that came with them. But before fastening them firmly, you might want to use a level to check that they are even. When you thread the mirror wire through these rings, it will help you keep the installed mirror balanced by adjusting as necessary. The screw eyes are to be attached to the bottom horizontal edge of the mirror. Make sure you screw them at equal distances from the center of the mirror edge.
Attaching the Wire
The wire that you use to hang up your mirror should be preferably doubled and twisted so it is strong enough to bear the weight of the mirror. Loop the wire through the screw eyes and D-rings making sure to leave some slack so the installed mirror can hang freely. Twist the edges of the wire at the ends so that it is firmly secure and will not come apart. Use a pair of pliers to crimp it firmly.
Attaching the Wall Hooks
Using a level carefully draw an even line on the wall within the boundaries of the outline of the mirror on the wall. This line should be about 5 inches from the top edge of the mirror. Pick out the wall studs along this line and screw your hooks on them. Again make sure they are even before you affix them firmly.
Installing the Mirror
Now carefully hang up the mirror by the wire on the hooks. Step back to check if it hangs evenly and make adjustments accordingly.
If you need some expert, professional advice on how to install your mirror perfectly, contact www.texascustommirrors.com it is one of the best stores for mirrors, frames and installation services. Call them today and you can get the best tips on installing your mirrors just the way they should be so they lend that awesome appeal to your home.