The Hack That'll Make Hanging A Mirror A Breeze

fizkes/Shutterstock

By Jenny Tinder/Sept. 8, 2023 11:30 am EST

Installing a mirror with pre-drilled holes can be unexpectedly time-consuming and tricky. However, an ingenious method simplifies the process, guaranteeing a level and stable hanging mirror. First, secure a strip of masking tape horizontally along the back of the mirror, taking care to line it up with the pre-existing holes at each end. Using a marker, accurately mark the positions of these holes on the tape. Once marked, gently peel the masking tape off and reposition it on the wall where you intend to hang the mirror. Now, it's time for a level. Lay it above the masking tape to double-check that your markings are correctly aligned, ensuring a perfectly level installation.

With the tape and level in place, you can insert screws into the wall. Drive them into the points you've marked on the tape. This guarantees a perfect match between the screws and the pre-drilled holes on the mirror's back. After inserting the screws, carefully remove the masking tape from the wall. Finally, hang your mirror on the screws, making sure it sits securely. Step back and appreciate your expertly hung installation, achieved with significantly less hassle and guesswork than the traditional approach.

Why this hack works and tips for successfully hanging a mirror

@brunoandlibby
Hanging a mirror on tile (or any wall for that matter) isn’t as challenging as it seems! Here’s how I hung this mirror in our bathroom: 1. Use painter’s tape to mark the holes on the back of your mirror. 2. Place the tape on the wall, ensuring the holes are evenly distanced and that they are level. For most tile, you don’t have to put the holes in the grout line - you can drill directly into the tile. I just used the grout line to reduce the chance of cracking my tile. 3. Drill pilot holes through the tape. For tile, use a masonry or concrete drill bit. The tape also helps keep your drill from walking on you. 4. Remove the tape and insert anchors. You can buy anchors that are specifically made for hanging on tile! Use a rubber mallet instead of a hammer to reduce the risk of cracking your tile. 5. Insert screws, leaving a slight gap to hang the mirror on. 6. Hang your mirror! Honestly, this is the hardest part - getting the holes to line up with the screws! 7. Stand back and admire your work! You got this!💪🏼💪🏼 . . . . . #diyproject #howto #bathroomreno #bathroomrenovation #bathroomwallpaper #bathroomdesign #halfbathroom #powderroom #diy
♬ Gorgeous - Taylor Swift

The masking tape technique for mounting a mirror is ingenious in its simplicity, serving multiple essential functions. It allows you to mark the precise locations of the pre-drilled holes on the mirror's back, ensuring that the screws align perfectly for a level and straight hang. Also, the tape serves as an intuitive guide when drilling holes into the wall, making the whole process quicker and more accurate.

When hanging a mirror, there are several key considerations to remember. First, choose the right hardware. It's crucial to select hardware compatible with both the mirror's weight and your wall's material. If you need more clarification, consult a hardware store or a professional to make an informed choice. Before hanging a mirror, locate the studs in the wall. For heavier mirrors, anchoring your hardware into wall studs is advisable for added security. A stud finder is a handy tool for this. Once you've securely attached the hardware to the wall, hang the mirror. Tweak as needed to confirm that it's perfectly horizontal. If drilling into your wall isn't an option, consider over-the-door hangers or adhesive methods as alternatives. By considering these tips and utilizing the masking tape method, you'll find that hanging a mirror becomes an efficient and foolproof task.