Tips For Installing A Bathroom Mirror

A mirror is an essential feature of any bathroom. Not only are they necessary for shaving and applying facial treatments, but they add a sense of space and light to what is usually a small space. Here are some steps for installing a mirror safely in a bathroom.

1. Decide where you will hang the mirror

This will usually be above the wash basin. However, you need to check the wall with a pipe, stud and cable detector first, to make sure there is nothing running behind it, which you may accidently damage when drilling. If the mirror has mains operated functions, such as a light or de-mister, then check the manufacturers’ instructions about safe locations.

2. Mark fixing points on the wall

If the mirror is large, ask someone to hold it against the wall for you while you use a spirit level to help you mark the fixing points correctly on the wall with a pencil. If the mirror is particularly large and heavy, it may need extra brackets to hold it safely to the wall. Check the installation instructions carefully.

3. Choose the appropriate fixings and drill

The type of fixings you need will depend on what kind of wall it is, such as plasterboard, brick, or masonry, so don’t just automatically use the supplied mirror wall fixings. Brick and masonry walls will require a hammer action drill and a masonry bit.

Plasterboard walls will only need a general-purpose drill, and you may even be able to use a hammer and nail if the mirror is small and light. Just make sure you have used the stud detector first, to avoid placing the hole over a concealed installation. Attaching a large heavy mirror to plasterboard may not be safe, so read the instructions very carefully.

Before you start drilling, mark the depth of the wall plug with tape on the drill bit, so that you know how deep to drill into the wall. Also cover the basin with an old sheet or shower curtain, to prevent the dust from becoming clogged in the drainage system.

4. Drill the holes

Put the mirror safely out of the way of dust and accidental knocks. Wearing a pair of safety goggles, drill the holes where you have made the pencil marks on the wall, to the depth marked on the drill bit. Clear away any dust and debris, and gently tap in the wall plugs, to make sure they are level and fit properly into the holes.

5. Fix the mirror to the wall

Attach any washers that have been supplied with the mirror, or buy your own if not, to ensure the mirror lies snugly and safe on the wall. Ask someone to hold the mirror in place while you screw it to the wall. Don’t over tighten the screws, in case you crack the glass.

Finish off by placing the cover caps over the screw heads, and giving the glass a final dust and polish.