How to hang a mirror on your own

As a homeowner, you could really benefit from learning to make repairs and upgrades on your own. The biggest benefit you would realize is significant money savings that you would normally incur while paying someone else to do a job. If it’s something you could do on your own, why not challenge yourself to get the job done and save money in the process.

Of course, you might not have the time or know-how to handle major projects. However, it’s probably well within your skill set to hang a new mirror. Even better, it’s not something that will take much of your time. If you need a little help, here is a step-by-step road map on how to hang a mirror on your own.

Step 1: Secure Tools and Hardware

Before you tackle the hanging of the mirror, there are some things you will want to gather ahead of time. There are certain tools you will need to keep things simple. That should include the mirror, tape measure, pencil or painter’s tape, wall screws (possibly anchors), and an electric drill. You will also need the appropriate mirror hanging hardware which should include D-rings, hanging wire, multi-function stud finder, and clips or brackets (also called French cleats).

All of this hardware should be in the mirror box. If not, you will need to make a run to the local hardware store. Don’t forget to take into account what kind of walls you have. You’ll need very specific hardware for plaster, cement, and brick walls. Drywall is the easiest material with which to work.

Step 2: Prep Work

There will be certain things you will need to do before you start. First, you should weigh your mirror and use that information to make sure your hardware will support it. That’s why it’s far better to use the hardware provided by the manufacturer.

Next up, you will need to decide where you are going to hang your mirror. Once you have a general idea of where you want it to go, you can start measuring. If the mirror is going over furniture like a dresser, you surely want it centered. When measuring, get assistance holding the mirror so you can mark drill holes with a pencil or painter’s tape. You will also want to measure where you want the top of the mirror to go as a guide for the right location.

As part of the measuring process, you want to locate the wall studs and any potential obstacles that lie behind the wall. It’s okay to drill into studs, but you have to avoid pipes and electrical wires. You can survey behind the wall with a multi-function stud finder.

Step 3: Drill the Holes

After getting everything measured out, you can start drilling holes. If you are drilling into plaster, cement, or brick, you can drill your wall screws right into the material. If you have drywall, you will first want to drill holes and insert drywall anchors for extra stability.
Step 4: Assemble the Hardware

Depending on what kind of hardware you will be using, now would be the time to do any needed assembly. That will usually include attaching the hanging wire to the mirror.

Step 5: Hang the Mirror

When all of the work has been done, you can hang your mirror. Assuming your measurements were correct, you should get the result you want in terms of positioning. If not, you will need to make any necessary adjustments until the mirror is level.
Levelling Tips

Whether you are a perfectionist or not, you want your mirror to be level. It’s the best way to ensure the weight distribution of the mirror is properly supported.

The key to leveling lies in the measuring process. Starting with the brackets, you want to measure their length from the top of the mirror. When you transfer those measurements to the wall, you will be able to see if the end product will be level.

When measuring for the D-rings or keyholes, you will need to measure the distances from the top of each keyhole to the top of the mirror. You can then replicate those measurements onto the wall.

Finally, measuring for the hanging wire gets a little tricky because you have to take into account the anticipated give of the wire. For the best wire placement, locate the wire mounts about 12 inches apart.

If you follow these steps, you’ll find that you can accomplish this task in less than 30 minutes. In the process, you’ll save money and get a sense of pride. That’s how to hang a mirror on your own.