How to Properly Hang a Heavy Picture or Mirror

Need to hang a heavy picture or mirror? Learn how to hang it properly and safely in the perfect spot with these helpful tips presented in this Lowe’s video:

You’ll need to check a few things before you buy the hardware. First, know what type if wall you have – drywall, plaster or masonry. To see if you have drywall or plaster, push a tack into the wall. If it goes in easily, it’s drywall.

A hanging mirror has to have a strong frame. if your new mittor already has hardware attached, it’s safe to hang. If you’re not sure about an old mirror, you can reinforce the frame with angle brackets.

Next, weigh the mirror – a bathroom scale works fine. Hardware weight limits are listed on the package. Pick a spot to hang the mirror. Locating it over a stud is helpful but not necessary with the right anchors. Always mark the center of the stud, and keep in mind utilities might be attached to it if the stud is near a light switch, outlet or faucet.

Hold the mirror in place – close to eye level. Mark the wall near the center of the top edge with a pencil or painter’s tape. On the back of the mirror, you’ll probably see D-rings or a wire. You can hang rings or wire from two hooks on the wall. To get the right space between, stick a long piece of tape on a level, and mark the space between the D-rings. Set the level aside and grab one of the mounting hooks. Lock it on the ring, measure from the hole to the top of the mirror, and transfer this distance to the wall using the line as a guide. Now center up your level on the wall and mark the holes. If you’re in line with a stud, secure the hardware to it; if not, install a wall anchor and attach the hardware. Now add bumpers to the bottom of the mirror to prevent scratching the wall, and gently hang it on the hooks.

You can also use metal cleats to hang mirrors with sturdy frames; just follow the package directions. Usually you position the top cleat at the top of the frame, make shallow holes and attach with screws. On the wall, level the bottom cleat and secure with screws. Then set the mirror in place.

Now your blank walls can have a bit more personality!