How Do I Hang A Heavy Mirror On Plasterboard Wall

How to Hang a Heavy Mirror on a Plasterboard Wall

Mirrors are a great way to add light, depth, and style to any room. But hanging a heavy mirror on a plasterboard wall can be a daunting task. The key is to choose the right hardware and use the proper techniques to ensure that your mirror is securely hung and won't come crashing down.

Choosing the Right Hardware

The type of hardware you need will depend on the weight of your mirror. For mirrors weighing up to 25 pounds, you can use drywall anchors. For mirrors weighing more than 25 pounds, you'll need to use heavy-dutymolly bolts or toggle bolts.

1. Drywall Anchors

Drywall anchors are small plastic or metal devices that are inserted into the wall to provide a solid anchor point for screws. To use drywall anchors, simply drill a hole in the wall, insert the anchor, and then screw the screw into the anchor.

Pros: Drywall anchors are easy to use and install, and they are relatively inexpensive.

Cons: Drywall anchors are not as strong as molly bolts or toggle bolts, so they are not suitable for hanging very heavy objects.

2. Molly Bolts

Molly bolts are metal bolts that have a spring-loaded anchor that expands when the bolt is tightened. This expansion creates a strong hold in the wall, making molly bolts suitable for hanging heavy objects like mirrors.

Pros: Molly bolts are strong and durable, and they can be used to hang heavy objects on plasterboard walls.

Cons: Molly bolts are more difficult to install than drywall anchors, and they are more expensive.

3. Toggle Bolts

Toggle bolts are similar to molly bolts, but they have a butterfly-shaped anchor that flips open when the bolt is tightened. This flipping action creates a strong hold in the wall, making toggle bolts suitable for hanging very heavy objects.

Pros: Toggle bolts are strong and durable, and they can be used to hang very heavy objects on plasterboard walls.

Cons: Toggle bolts are more difficult to install than drywall anchors or molly bolts, and they are more expensive.

Installing the Mirror

Once you have chosen the right hardware, you can install the mirror. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Measure the distance between the two hanging points on the back of the mirror.

2. Mark the corresponding distance on the wall, using a level to ensure that the mirror will be hung level.

3. Drill holes in the wall at the marked locations.

4. Insert the hardware into the holes.

5. Hang the mirror on the hardware.

6. Check to make sure that the mirror is securely hung.

Tips for Hanging a Heavy Mirror on a Plasterboard Wall

Here are a few tips to help you hang a heavy mirror on a plasterboard wall:

1. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. If possible, hang the mirror on studs to ensure maximum support.

2. If you are unable to hang the mirror on studs, use heavy-duty hardware such as molly bolts or toggle bolts.

3. When drilling holes in the wall, use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the hardware you are using.

4. Be careful not to overtighten the screws or bolts when hanging the mirror.

5. Once the mirror is hung, check to make sure that it is securely attached to the wall. You can do this by gently pushing on the mirror to see if it moves.