Did you know it’s possible to hang a mirror without nails – on virtually any type of wall? Read on for our easy instructions and the materials you’ll need.
Even a heavy mirror can be hung without nails and by using adhesive alone, if the job is done properly. Not being limited by stud location is a huge advantage. But always check the maximum weight your adhesive will be able to support!
The first step is to prepare the wall.
- Prime the drywall or plaster surface and allow it to dry completely.
- If the wall is already painted with glossy paint, sand the surface and wipe it clean.
- Make sure the wall and the back of the mirror are free of dirt or dust.
- Find the exact position where the mirror will be hung and mark the corners with painter’s tape.
Want to hang a mirror without nails? Decide exactly where the mirror should hang before starting to apply the glue
Next, you can begin to hang the mirror without any nails or screws.
- Load the adhesive tube into your caulk gun and cut the end open.
- Apply thick beads of adhesive to the back side of the mirror. Place some at various areas, but especially at all four corners. Avoid getting adhesive too close to the edge of the mirror to prevent it from squeezing out.
- Put the mirror into place on the wall and press firmly, ensuring the glue adheres to the wall. (Use the help of a second person if needed.) Make sure the mirror is aligned exactly with your tape or marks and that it is level to the floor.
- Secure the mirror with tape or another means of support until the adhesive has fully set. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for details.
- Once dry, remove your support system and alignment tape.
Installing a mirror on a tile wall without drilling is much the same process. After ensuring the tiles are clean and dry, position the mirror and mark the edges with tape. When choosing an adhesive, read the label and make sure that it will adhere to the type of tile in question.
Since tile surfaces are sometimes uneven, make sure that you apply the adhesive in areas that will contact the back of the mirror.
If you want to hang a mirror without nails, make sure to use sufficient adhesive to hold the weight of the mirror.
These same points are important if you want to hang a mirror on a brick wall. You must use an adhesive that will bond to brick or masonry surfaces. Also, make sure the glue does not end up in a mortar joint but rather on the surface of the bricks. Measure and mark the back of the mirror as to where to apply glue if necessary.
Make sure to choose an adhesive that is compatible with the surface you want to attach the mirror to, and will dry to a strong, durable bond. Special mirror adhesives are available.
Another great option is Loctite Universal Instant Epoxy Liquid 5 Minute. This two-part adhesive dispenses from the dual syringe in equal volumes, ready for mixing. Once mixed, it cures in just 5 minutes and will not drip or run down the wall. It creates a tough, rigid bond to ceramic, wood, concrete, and stone, making it perfect for hanging a mirror without drilling into any expensive materials.