How to Hang a Big Mirror Over a Mantel

A fireplace usually occupies a large area in the living room. Stylizing the fireplace includes hanging a mirror over the mantel. When placing a mirror above the fireplace, make sure that its size is proportional to the fireplace to create balance. A mirror which is small will not give a great impact to the design and will just look like out of place. Get a frame which maximizes the style of the room or you can get something that brings a beautiful and unexpected contrast to the design.

When hanging a big mirror over a mantel, make sure that the screws are tightly attached on the frame and the mirror wire is securely tightened to the screws. Use screws or bolts that will support the weight of the mirror. Here are the materials and steps in hanging a big mirror over a mantel. Remember, when hanging a big mirror, ask someone to be your helper.

Materials:

• butcher paper or any wide wrapping paper
• pencil
• scissors
• painter’s tape
• measuring tape
• electronic stud finder (optional)
• screws or toggle bolts
• drill

Steps:

1. Trace the mirror on the butcher paper. Cut the pattern and fold it lengthwise to get the center. Tape it over the mantel.  Mark this point with a pencil. Have a 7″ space between the mantel and the mirror. Leave the pattern on the wall and check if you like the position. The beauty of a paper pattern is you can switch from hanging a rectangular mirror from a portrait to landscape position easily.

2. With the pattern on the wall, mark the center of the mirror on the wall. It is your guide on where the top of the mirror will be.

3. Look at the back of the mirror and hold the mirror wire up taut, no need to lift the mirror off the floor. Measure the distance between this point and the top of the mirror. Go back to the wall and mark this measurement from the first mark you made. This is where you will install the screw or bolt. Using a stud finder, check if there is a wall stud on this spot. If there is none, you have to use a toggle bolt in hanging a big mirror since it will be able to support the weight of the mirror.

4. Remove all the items over the mantel for a clear work area.

5. Using a drill, install the screw or toggle bolt securely to the wall, leaving at least an inch of the thread where you will hang the mirror.

6. With your helper, carefully hang the mirror. Check if the mirror is centered.

Tips:

Decorate the mantel so the mirror won’t be reflecting a blank ceiling. Place candles or lovely lamps, flowers, and other decors.

For a heavier mirror, use two or more toggle bolts for more security.

Image source: www.houzz.com