Can I Hang a Heavy Mirror on Drywall?

A heavy mirror on a wall in an apartment.

Hang Your Mirror With the Experts

“Mirror, mirror on the wall … “, is a few words to a classic childhood fairy tale, and for the homeowner in the Fort Worth, Texas area, a question asked when considering the best way for a mirror installation. The heavier and larger the mirror, the more reason to consider having it professionally done. 

How much does it cost to install a mirror?

As you may think, it will depend on the size, weight, and type of the mirror and the cost can vary between companies. On average, the cost for a professional mirror installation is typically by the square foot, with the total starting around $150 and going up to $500 or more. Another factor that can have an impact on the cost is if the mirror is framed or frameless.

How is a frameless mirror installation done?

In bathrooms, hallways, or formal living rooms, a frameless mirror can be the finishing touch to a home’s décor. But the frameless mirror installation can be challenging! For the DIY homeowner, we offer some tips for this challenge:  

Step One: The Placement

Before you get all the tools out for your frameless mirror installation, determine where you want the mirror placed. If possible, have another person help and with a level, make sure it is level, marking the position with a pencil. 

Step Two: The Method

Depending on the size of the mirror, installation can be done in a number of ways.  Using an adhesive for a lightweight, small frameless mirror and a larger mirror installation should be done with clips or hardware. 

  • Mirror Adhesive Method

Even with a lightweight small mirror, use a strong construction adhesive. Choose an adhesive that is meant for heavy objects and apply with a caulk gun half-inch thick daubs over the backside of the mirror. Now position the mirror in the predetermined spot, and press carefully but firmly, holding for ten minutes, allowing the adhesive to cure. 

  • Mirror Clip Method

Choose one of the two types of mirror installation hardware for a large frameless mirror: 

  • Mirror Clips: These are installed immediately above and below the frameless mirror to hold it in place. 
  • Z-Clips: These are two-part interlocking clips that secure the mirror to the wall by sliding together and locking them in place. 

Step Three: The Hardware

For these two types of hardware, find the wall studs in the placement area you’ve predetermined. Next, drill anchor holes in the wall where the hardware you choose will be installed. If you’re using the mirror clips, install them precisely above and below where the mirror installation is planned. Now, use a screwdriver to drill the anchor holes and install the anchors. Next, screw the mirror clips securely and tightly into the wall anchors and then slide the mirror in between the mirror clips or onto the a-clips.

How are most bathroom mirrors mounted?

A mirror installation can give your bathroom a fashionable style and make it functional too. Here are some things you need to know about this essential mirror installation: 

1. Hanging a heavy mirror requires special care, like hanging large pieces of art, and using brackets or wires for support.  

2. Know the wall type where the mirror installation is taking place first. Drywall, masonry, or plaster each require a different method for a secure installation. 

3. Knowing the weight of the mirror is important so that you can choose the right method for the mirror installation. 

Now, on to the tips for a framed mirror installation with hooks: 

  1. Hold the mirror in the position you want your mirror installed and mark the area with either painter’s tape or a pencil. 
  2. Check the back of the framed mirror to see if it has rings or a wire.
  3. Measure the positioning of the mirror on a level with tape where the hooks will be placed for the rings or wire.
  4. Using the measurements, mark the wall under the previous mark from the mirror’s top center. 
  5. If your mirror installation will be with hooks or rings, confirm the marks are level. 
  6. If there is a stud, secure the mounting hardware there. If the mirror installation is going elsewhere, install wall anchors. 
  7. Now it’s time for the mirror installation! 

Do you need an electrician to install a lighted bathroom mirror?

It is possible for a DIY homeowner to do their own lighted bathroom mirror installation, but it is recommended to have it done by a professional electrician. They are experienced and have the proper equipment to get the job done right, and the work will be guaranteed. A small price to pay for a safe installation that will light up your bathroom!

The Fairytale Ending… 

Proper positioning of a framed or frameless mirror installation could be the finishing touch to any room in your home. Not only in the bathroom, family den, or in the hallway, give your kitchen or office consideration too! Do you need a mirror installation in Fort Worth, TX? If so, please give us a call at 817-937-6267!