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How to Hang a Large Mirror

By Julia Ritzenthaler

Republish: EasyPublish™ Published: 28Jul2009 Word count: 527 Viewed: 3279 time(s) Get Free Content For Your Site

After purchasing a large wall mirror, it's important to make sure that you take proper care in hanging it. Large mirrors are heavy and require some specific materials that will insure that you only need to do the job once and that you don't damage the wall surface where you are working.

The first step in this process is to determine where you want to hang your new mirror. If you are working with something like a large leather mirror, and it is going over a fireplace or dresser, you will want to clear the area. 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. You can also find electronic stud finders at your local hardware store if that makes you more comfortable. 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. That is how they are helpful if you can not locate the stud.

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. Affix two hooks to the back of the mirror, one toward the upper left, and one toward the upper right, making them as even and level 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.

Remember for any home remodel or installation job that safety is the number one priority. 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.

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