How to Install Decorative Mirror Hangers
Decorative mirrors come in every imaginable shape including rectangular, round, oval, heart-shaped and abstract configurations. Many are beveled or scallop-edged. Some would not be easily framed and framing may detract from the beauty of many decorative mirrors. An unframed mirror requires dedicated hardware for mounting on the wall. Some varieties of mirror mounting hardware hide the mounting screws behind the mirror. Installation is slightly more complicated than using traditional mirror hardware but can be accomplished using common carpenter's tools. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Mirror
- Mounting hardware (mirror clips)
- Measuring tape
- Dry-erase marker
- Masking tape
- Chalk pencil
- Drill with drilling bit
- Screwdriver
- Screws
- Wall anchors
Instructions
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1
Select the position on the wall for mounting the mirror.
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2
Remove the mounting hardware from it's packaging and read the manufacturer's instructions, if included. Typically, mounting hardware comes in packages including four clips, screws and wall anchors. Two clips support the bottom of the mirror and two clips hold the top to the wall.
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3
Position the clips on the mirror. For accuracy, use a measuring tape and a dry-erase marker to measure and mark clip positions. To prevent the mirror from wobbling laterally, the clips should be placed on the lateral 1/4 of the mirror. Once the clips are in the desired position, securely tape them to the mirror.
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4
Hold the mirror on the wall where you want to hang it. Get assistance if the mirror is large. With a chalk pencil, trace around the outside of the mirror hangers. If the screw hole in the mounting hardware will be on the outside of the mirror, mark the hole positions, as well. Carefully take the mirror off the wall and set it aside in a secure place.
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5
Remove the tape and mirror clips. If the screw holes in the clips will be behind the mirror, once mounted, measure the distance from the edge of the clip to the hole and transfer the measurement to the wall, marking the position of the screw holes.
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6
Drill the holes in the wall to accept the wall anchors. Insert the wall anchors flush with the wall surface. Using screws and a screwdriver, mount the bottom mirror clips to the wall first. If the screws on the mirror clips are to be outside the mirror, put the mirror in place on the wall, supported by the bottom mirror clips. Holding the mirror in place, affix the upper clips to the wall, securing the mirror in place.
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7
Mount all four clips before putting the mirror in place on the wall if the screws on the mirror clips will be hidden behind the mirror. Position the mirror on the wall, supported by the bottom clips. Holding the decorative portion of the upper clips, push upward, then position the mirror flush with the wall. Gently lower the spring-loaded clip, using caution to prevent chipping the mirror.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are using specialized mounting hardware with hidden screws, those for the top of the mirror are spring-loaded clips. Make sure to mount them in correct positions.
Do not use a power screwdriver for mounting the mirror clips, especially if the mirror is already positioned on the wall. Accidental excessive force could break the mirror.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit screwdriver image by bluefern from Fotolia.com
