Frames display significant photographs and works of art. Therefore, perfecting every small element on the front of the frame is crucial since nobody wants to display something that appears unpleasant. The components that are hidden from view are equally critical. Of course, this is the hanging hardware.
Once your frame is hung, you won’t ever see it because it is on the back of the frame. Without it, however, where would you place your decorative items? Well, selecting appropriate hanging hardware is very important.
Hanging hardware is equally important as the decorative item itself. Thus, selecting the right one is necessary.
Suitable hanging hardware depends on several factors. Some of the main things to consider while choosing the right hanging hardware include; a hanging method, the weight of the decorative item, wall material, and professional help. They are discussed below in more detail.
- Choose an Appropriate Hanging Method
Having the correct choice for a hanging method for your pieces is crucial. Many hanging methods include wall anchors, sawtooth picture hangers, picture hanging wires, and D-ring hangers. It is vital to select the right hanging hardware because it depends on several factors, as discussed below.
Sawtooth Picture Hanger
The most typical kind of picture hanger is this one. Small metal strips with angular teeth on one side are called sawtooth picture hangers. The teeth hold the frame in place by grabbing the nail or screw in the wall.
Every hardware store should have these sawtooth hangers, which are simple to use. They are not advised for heavy frames, though. For instance, if you create an abstract DIY painting using a saw tooth picture hangar, you will realize the saw tooth hanger fits well.
Given how small and light the painting is, the sawtooth hanger is the ideal wall hanger for this frame. The weight capacities of saw tooth wall hangers range between 5 and 25 pounds depending on their size, but always read the packaging before beginning any picture hanging endeavor to be sure you have the necessary tools.
Wall Anchors
The open, self-expanding screw attachments known as drywall plugs and anchors strengthen the bond between the screw and the wall. They are perfect for heavier frames and are typically composed of plastic or synthetic material.
However, there are many sizes, so be sure to pick one based on the weight of your frame. Consider purchasing an EZ-ANCOR when you need drywall anchors. The EZ-ANCOR wall hangers for frames are by far the best ones available. You could also try various other kinds, including free ones frequently accompanying picture frames.
Picture Hanging Wire
That is a typical method of hanging art and a wonderful choice for hanging hardware for many framed pieces. Two little nails or screws and picture hanging wire are all you need. The wire must be long enough to have some slack when wrapped around the nails. You can then change where the frame hangs on the wall. This kind of photo hanging works beautifully for wall presentations in the gallery style.
The D-Ring Hanger
The D-ring is another popular style of picture hanging. D-rings can be applied in various ways, the first of which is as a stand-alone wall picture mount. A metal D-shaped ring was screwed into the wall decoration’s back.
On both the left and right sides of the backing, there is at least one D hook on each side. The artwork will be hung with a length of wire tied through each ring. D rings may also be suspended from screws or tails directly.
- Ensure that You Properly Measure the Weight of the Decorative Piece
Weighting a factor in choosing the right hanging hardware is essential. That is because the decorative hardware’s weight directly affects the hanging hardware’s choice. You need to get the weight right for many reasons. Hanging hardware commensurate with the decorative hardware weight is safer and more stable.
The load-bearing capacity of the hanger or the hanging hardware needs to match the weight put on it. Therefore, if you are considering hanging heavy decorative pieces, you also need to know the capacity of the hanger to sustain the weight.
If you use hanging hardware with a low load-bearing capacity, it could lead to accidents. The weight of the decorative piece would overpower the hanging hardware and fall off, potentially injuring any close person. Therefore, you should choose the right hanging hardware for every weight of the decorative piece.
Choosing the wrong hanging hardware for your decorative piece could also damage your wall. Hanging your decorative pieces should leave your walls in the best condition possible. A wrong choice would tarnish the aesthetic look of your walls by applying too much stress on them.
Your walls will have holes, cracks, or paintwork getting tarnished. The right choice for your decorative items will, on the other hand, distribute weight evenly, thus reducing the risk of damaging your wall.
Additionally, your hanged pieces will live longer. A decorative piece heavier than your hanger’s load capacity will cause shifting, loosening, and failure of the mechanism for hanging. Knowing that your decorative piece is secured and supported appropriately, you will also enjoy peace of mind.
- The Material of the Wall
The wall material set to accommodate a decorative piece also determines the type of hanger you choose. Different types of wall materials require different types of hangers or hardware. That is because the types of wall materials vary according to their load capacities. For instance, such materials as concrete or wood would have a higher load capacity than plaster or drywall.
It is also essential to understand the characteristic material making up the walls. That would help you choose the right wall material that aligns with the installation method. You cannot apply any hanging hardware to any wall.
Some wall materials get damaged when drilled. Therefore, they would work well with special or adhesive fasteners.
- Professional Help is Necessary
It is always prudent to seek professional advice when selecting the right hanging hardware. Nothing beats expertise and experience. If you don’t have them, it is prudent to outsource.
People with professional experience in art installations, interior designing, or other relevant skills are better placed to carry out the tasks. That is because they better understand the details of installation techniques, different weight capacities, and different wall materials.
Since they are experts in those areas, it will help you in making the right decisions that will not cost you negatively.
Final Thought
Finally, there are numerous varieties of picture hangers available. Understanding every aspect of the many hanging hardware alternatives is the best method for choosing the type of picture hanging you require. Additionally, understanding different factors that determine the suitability of each choice is essential.