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The project:
Hanging a heavy mirror securely requires more than simply using a plasterboard anchor. For heavier mirrors, fixing into the timber framing behind the plasterboard provides a much stronger and more reliable mounting point.
- Materials:
- Tools:
- Step 1:
Check the mirror's hanging hardware.
Start by inspecting the back of your mirror and identifying the type of hanging hardware fitted to it. This will determine the type, size and position of the fixing you'll need on the wall.
Many heavy mirrors have keyhole-style hangers designed to fit over the head of a screw before sliding into the narrower section of the fitting. These typically require a countersunk or similar screw head of the correct diameter to engage securely with the hanger.
Check that your chosen screw head fits securely into the mirror's hanger before installing anything into the wall. If your mirror uses a different hanging system, follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.
- Step 2:
Find a suitable fixing point behind the plasterboard.
A typical plasterboard wall consists of sheets of plasterboard fixed to a framework of vertical timber studs. Horizontal timber noggins or other framing can also be found between the studs.
For items weighing more than 10kg, we recommend fixing directly into timber framing rather than relying on a plasterboard fixing alone. This provides a strong and reliable mounting point for a heavy mirror.
If your required mounting position falls between two studs, you can install a timber bridging piece between them to create a suitable fixing point. This requires screwing a section of 140 x 19mm pine to two studs with 65mm bugle screws.
Important safety warning: Before drilling, cutting or otherwise disturbing the wall lining, make sure you've confirmed that it is plasterboard. Older homes can contain asbestos-containing wall sheeting. If you're unsure what the material is, presume it could contain asbestos and have it tested by a suitably qualified professional before disturbing it.
- Step 3:
Locate and mark the timber stud.
Determine where you'd like the mirror positioned and calculate the height of its hanging point.
Use a stud finder to locate the timber stud behind the plasterboard. Mark both edges of the stud so you can establish its centre, then mark the centre at the required height.
See our guide How to use a stud finder for more information on accurately locating wall framing.
Before drilling, check the area for concealed electrical cables and plumbing.
- Step 4:
Choose the screw and pre-drill the hole.
Choose a heavy-duty timber screw that's suitable for the weight of your mirror and compatible with its hanging hardware. The screw head needs to fit securely into the mirror's hanger without passing through it.
The screw also needs to be long enough to pass through the plasterboard and achieve sufficient penetration into the timber stud. Use a screw at least 65mm long.
Pre-drill through the plasterboard and into the centre of the timber stud with your drill driver and 3mm drill bit. This allows the threads to bite securely into the timber while helping prevent the timber from splitting.
If using a bridging piece, pre-drill in the desired location for hanging.
- Step 5:
Fix the screw and hang the mirror.
Use your drill driver to drive the screw into the timber stud or bridging piece, leaving enough of the shank and screw head protruding from the wall for the mirror's hanger to engage with it. Don't drive the screw head flush with the plasterboard.
Before proceeding, put on some personal protection equipment, including cut-resistant gloves, a long-sleeved shirt and trousers and enclosed footwear.
Carefully lift the mirror into position and place the hanger over the screw head. If the mirror is large or difficult to handle safely, have another person assist you with lifting and positioning it. Lower or slide the mirror as required so the screw head locks securely into the narrow section of the hanger.
Gently check that the hanger is fully engaged and the mirror is sitting securely before letting go of it.
