Mounting a mirror in the bathroom can be quick and hassle-free. A very popular solution now is non-invasive installation, which means not having to drill holes for dowels in the tiles or wall. All you need is a special adhesive.
How to stick a mirror to tiles? Read on and see how simple it is!
What do you need to mount a mirror on the wall?
Typically, mounting a mirror involves drilling one or two expanding dowels with hooks. In a bathroom finished with ceramic tiles, the situation might be slightly more complicated than with smooth walls. Remember that drilling holes in tiles will permanently damage them. Moreover, improperly drilling holes can lead to the tiles cracking.
If there are tiles or panels on your bathroom wall, it's definitely a better idea to stick the mirror directly onto the surface.
Here are the basic things you will need to stick a mirror to the wall:
- special adhesive for mirrors, glass, and ceramics, or special silicone,
- a glue or silicone gun,
- a measuring tape,
- a spirit level,
- a pencil.
Both adhesive and silicone will work for mounting the mirror - both solutions are equally effective. Silicone also seals the space between the mirror and the wall surface and prevents moisture from getting underneath.
If you're looking for an alternative solution, at mexen.pl you will find bathroom mirrors that hang on a wide strip.
How to prepare the surface for mounting a mirror with adhesive?
If you want the mirror installation to go smoothly, you need to make sure the wall is clean, dry, and most importantly, degreased.
For this purpose, wash the tiles thoroughly with warm water and detergent. Then, wait a few minutes or wipe the surface dry.
In the case of stains or deposits, you need to scrub them thoroughly. Finally, it's good to wipe the wall with a solvent that will remove any traces of cleaning agents used on the wall.
The back of the mirror must also be dry and clean, otherwise, you might have trouble applying the adhesive properly.
How to stick a mirror to tiles: step by step
After preparing the wall for installation, you can start sticking the mirror to the surface.
Here's what you need to do:
- measure the mirror again accurately,
- mark the spot for the mirror on the tiles using a pencil,
- prepare the adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions,
- if you are going to use a glue or silicone gun, place the tube in the gun holder,
- apply the adhesive to the back of the mirror using the applicator - apply parallel strips of adhesive several centimeters apart,
- carefully place the mirror in the chosen spot and gently press it against the wall,
- check with the spirit level to ensure the mirror is mounted evenly,
- remove any excess adhesive protruding beyond the frame of the mirror,
- clean the edges of the mirror thoroughly - you can use solvent for this.
If your new mirror is large, ask for help from another person to ensure the process goes smoothly.
How to check if the mirror sticking was successful?
To verify whether the mirror has been mounted correctly, perform the following steps:
- check with a spirit level if the mirror is mounted evenly,
- gently hold the edge of the mirror and try to move it; if the mirror surface can be moved, it may indicate that not enough adhesive was applied. In such a case, try to repeat the entire process again. Dismantle the mirror using a spatula or a craft knife - gently lever the mirror. You can also try to apply more adhesive by inserting the applicator between the mirror and the tiles,
- remove excess adhesive once again from the edges of the mirror and wait until the adhesive hardens sufficiently.
Conducting careful checks after the mirror sticking process to the tiles will ensure successful mounting and that the mirror is securely fastened for household members.
Is sticking a mirror to the wall an irreversible action?
A mirror stuck to the wall with adhesive can be dismantled, but it is quite difficult and might end up damaging the tiles or the mirror itself.
To unstick the mirror from the surface, you need to be patient and do the following:
- remove adhesive around the edges of the mirror with a craft knife or other tool,
- then, using a spatula, gently lever the edge of the mirror. A good solution might be to use a hairdryer - hot air softens the adhesive.
If necessary, you can use a solvent or adhesive remover.
Mounting a mirror to bathroom tiles - summary
If you decide to stick a mirror to the wall, remember to choose a special adhesive designed for bonding glass and ceramics. For large mirrors, use the help of another person.