How to Hang a Heavy Mirror on Sheetrock

Mirrors add light and visual space to a room.

Mirrors can make a nice addition to a room. Not only are they decorative, but they can make a room appear larger than it is. In addition, they reflect light, which can brighten a room. Mirrors are made of glass, which can make them exceptionally heavy. It is important to ensure that the mirror is hung securely to avoid injuries and damage.

Things You'll Need

• Mirror
• Mirror clips
• Level
• Pencil
• Screw
• Screwdriver
• Stud finder
• Drill
• Drill bits
• Hanging wire

Instructions

1. Determine whether or not the mirror you plan on hanging is framed or unframed. If it is framed, you can attach a wire to fixtures on both sides of the mirror. If the mirror does not have a frame, you will need to install mirror clips.

2. Pick the place where you will hang the mirror. Use a tape measure to find the middle point of the mirror. Mark a spot above the mirror with a pencil.

3. Find out if there is a stud behind where the mirror will go. This process is simplified with an electronic stud finder. If there happens to be a stud where you want to hang the mirror, use a drill bit to make a small hole. Insert a screw with a screwdriver, but do not screw it in all of the way. You want it to stick out slightly so that you can hang the wire for the mirror on it. The weight that the screw can hold will vary depending on the size. Make sure you choose a screw that will hold the weight of the mirror you choose.

4. Decide if you want to use a toggle bolt or a hanging board if there is not stud behind. A toggle bolt is a wall anchor that can hold a high amount of weight without a stud. A hanging board is a piece of wood that you secure to two studs to hang the mirror from. Some toggle bolts can hold up to 275 pounds in 1/2 inch drywall and up to 356 pounds in 5/8 inch drywall.

5. Follow the instructions on the packaging to get the correct drill bit size if you are using a toggle bolt. Drill a hole in the wall where you marked your spot. Insert the toggle bolt by pinching the wings. After ensuring that it is secure, hang the mirror.

6. Measure the distance between two studs if you intend on using a hanging board. Secure a board between the two studs with screws. The amount of weight that the hanging board can hold will depend on the type of wood, length and thickness of the board. If you are uncertain if the board you chose will hold the weight of the mirror, you can use a calculator. Insert a screw into the hanging board. Do not insert it all of the way since you need to be able to hang the wire from it. You may want to try to hide the board behind the mirror if possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a level to ensure that the mirror is not crooked.

• Some toggle bolts can hold over 300 pounds.

• If you use a toggle bolt, follow the instructions to make sure that it is properly installed and that the mirror does not exceed the maximum weight.

References

• Curious Inventor: All about screws
• Toggler: Anchor Bolts

Resources

• American Wood Council: Maximum Span Calculator for Joists and Rafters