The placement of mirrors

If a mirror is placed opposite or adjacent to a window, it reflects light back into the room to increase the ambient brightness. Placing a mirror behind a light fixture can double the amount of light thrown into the room. Mirrors can also be used effectively in a nursery. Studies have shown that babies will crawl toward a mirror to see their reflection. This helps them develop motor skills and a greater sense of self-awareness.

To most people a mirror is simply a sheet of silver-coated glass. While this is essentially true, there are different types of mirrors. Clear mirrors are the most common. These are available in four standard thicknesses: 3/32 inch, 1/8 inch, 3/16 inch and 1/4 inch. The 1/4-inch thickness is used for most applications, while thinner mirrors are used in furniture applications.

Some mirrors are designed for esthetic appeal as well as function. These include tinted and antique mirrors, and mirrors with surface decoration. Tinted mirrors have colored glass and are available in a variety of colors, including green, blue, pink, gray and gold. In addition to having tinted glass, antique mirrors have a reflective surface that has been purposely distressed to give the piece an aged look.

Surface treatments include sandblasting, cutting, painting, slumping and glue chipping. Sandblasting is used to etch a matte or frosted pattern onto the surface of the glass. Cutting with high-pressure air and abrasive wheels produces a pattern that is multilayered and faceted. No matter what style mirror you choose, it still must be hung properly. Most people hang framed mirrors like a picture, with a single hook and stranded wire, but mirrors are heavier than pictures so they need additional support. Attach two steel strap hangers to either side of the mirror frame. These can then be attached to the walls with screws or heavy duty picture-hangers.

Use mirror mounting clips (available at home centers and glass shops) to attach frameless mirrors to a wall. Mirror clips are padded to protect the glass and slotted so they can be adjusted. First draw a horizontal line about 3/4 inch higher than the final position of the bottom edge of the mirror. Mark off the position for the clips on this line. The clips should support the mirror about four inches from the corners. Drill a hole at each mark. If you hit a wall stud, you can screw the clip directly into it; otherwise insert anchor sleeves in the holes then screw the clips in place.

Measure the length of the mirror. Transfer this measurement to the wall starting from the bottom clips. Mount the top clips along this line. Use the adjustment slots to position the mirror. Push the clips up and place the mirror in the bottom clips. When the mirror is in place, push the clips down to secure it.