How to fix a mirror in a frame

Mirrors are one of those integral attributes of the interior. Over time, their value increases. Antique items are very rare. They have elegance and gloss that modern options lack. But you can artificially give the model a touch of antiquity using special techniques.

One of these techniques is placement in a baguette frame, the decor of which is made in an old style. With the same success, it is possible to choose a mirror design option in the following styles:

• Modern,
• Loft,
• Provence;
• Shabby chic;
• High tech;
• Country or friend.

This is regarding the decor of the frame. And the methods of fastening in a frame made in any style will not differ significantly.

How to fix a mirror in a wooden frame

Mounting a mirror on a wall is most often done using metal plates, which have loops for hanging the item. The work begins by gluing metal plates with a special glue directly to the mirror on the back side, called amalgam. The wooden frame serves as decoration.

IMPORTANT: The internal dimensions of the length and width of the frame should be 1 cm less than the length and width of the mirror.

To secure the mirror in the frame, place it face down on a flat table surface. It is laid on top with the amalgam facing up and attached to the frame along its inner perimeter with small nails.Before driving (or shooting) the nails, small pieces of fiberboard or other softening material are placed under them, which will prevent damage and soften and compact the points of contact with the nail. You can secure the mirror using metal claws, under which softening pads are also placed.

How to fix a mirror in a frame? For small-sized products, a method of hanging on the wall without gluing metal loop plates is acceptable. D-shaped metal loops are suitable for this. They are screwed directly to the back of the frame, which has a thickness and width that allows this to be done.

A fairly strong rope is stretched between the loops, capable of holding the suspended object.

If you plan to place the mirror in the kitchen, bathroom or other room with high humidity, the amalgam must be protected from moisture so that it does not oxidize or fade. For this purpose, glue or liquid nails are carefully squeezed out from the back side along the edge of the mirror (where there is space between it and the frame), going around this “sausage” around the entire perimeter.

IMPORTANT: Glue or liquid nails must be without hardeners, since the acid base contained in the hardeners will lead to tarnishing of the amalgam.

Small items can be fixed in the frame with liquid nails or glue without hardeners.

Attaching a mirror to a metal frame

The following means are suitable for fastening to metal:

• Automotive glue;
• Two-component epoxy adhesive;
• Glue “Moment-crystal”;
• High temperature silicone;
• Double-sided tape.

If the frame can be drilled without damaging the decor, fastening can be done using metal tabs.

Possible problems during operation

When fixing a mirror in a frame and placing it on the wall, you should take into account that it is noticeably heavier than a picture and the fastening means must be able to withstand its weight with a reserve.

To create a strong adhesion between glass and metal, their surfaces should be cleaned of dirt, dust, degreased and paint removed. Before gluing, warm up the surfaces a little with a hairdryer so that their temperature is 30 degrees higher than in the room. Do not heat it too much to avoid breaking the mirror.

You should not use open fire for heating, as the glass smokes.

The frame or baguette to which the product is attached must have a clear geometry, and the wood must be well dried. If this condition is not met, drying of the wood can lead to distortion of the reflection.