How to Measure for Mirrors
How to measure for mirrors is one of the first things to figure out before requesting a quote or ordering a mirror installation. Accurate measurements give you a clearer idea of how much mirror you need and help the installer understand the space.
You don’t need to figure out the entire installation yourself. The goal is simply to provide accurate information about the wall and any features that could affect the mirror layout.
Here is what to measure and what to look for.
Start With the Wall Width
Begin by measuring the width of the wall where you want the mirror installed.
Measure from one end of the usable wall space to the other. If the wall has a doorway, opening, or another feature that interrupts the area, make a note of it rather than including the entire wall as one uninterrupted measurement.
If you plan to mirror more than one wall, measure each wall separately.
For example:
- Wall 1: 12 feet wide
- Wall 2: 8 feet wide
- Wall 3: 10 feet wide
Keeping each measurement separate makes it easier to understand the overall project.
Measure the Wall Height
Next, measure the height of the wall.
Measure from the floor to the point where you want the mirror to end. You may not always want the mirror to extend all the way to the ceiling, so be clear about the area you want covered.
For spaces with high ceilings, it can be helpful to record both the full wall height and the height you actually want mirrored.
This gives the installer more useful information when considering the mirror size.
Measure Each Section Separately
Not every wall is one simple rectangle.
If the wall changes direction, has a column, or is divided by a doorway, treat each usable section as its own measurement.
For example, instead of saying:
“The wall is 20 feet wide.”
you might record:
“Left section: 8 feet. Doorway: 4 feet. Right section: 8 feet.”
This gives a much clearer picture of the space.
Look for Doors and Openings
Doors can affect how much mirror can actually be installed.
Measure the width and height of any doors that interrupt the wall. Also note which direction the door opens and how much space it needs.
The same applies to large openings, pass-throughs, or other areas where a mirror cannot be installed.
Including these details with your measurements can help prevent confusion later.
Don’t Forget Windows
Windows are another feature that should be included in your measurements.
Record the width and height of the window and where it sits on the wall. If possible, note the distance from the floor and from the nearest wall edge.
You don’t necessarily need to measure every tiny detail. The goal is to give a clear picture of where the mirror needs to work around the window.
Mark Electrical Outlets and Switches
Take note of any electrical outlets, light switches, or other wall fixtures.
These details can affect the final mirror layout, especially when the mirror needs to cover a large portion of the wall.
You can record their approximate location by measuring:
- Distance from the nearest wall edge
- Distance from the floor
- Width and height of the fixture
A quick photo of the wall can also be helpful when sending your measurements.
Check for Columns, Corners, and Wall Changes
Some walls have features that aren’t obvious from a basic width and height measurement.
Look for:
- Inside corners
- Columns
- Wall projections
- Changes in wall depth
- Built-in areas
- Vents
- Permanent fixtures
If something sticks out from the wall or changes its shape, make a note of it.
These details can be especially important when mirrors need to be cut to fit around the existing space.
Take Photos Along With Your Measurements
Numbers are useful, but photos can provide additional context.
Take a few clear photos of the wall from different angles. Try to include the entire wall in at least one photo, then take closer photos of doors, outlets, corners, windows, or other features.
When you send the measurements to an installer, these photos can help show what the numbers alone cannot.
Measure in the Same Unit
Choose one unit of measurement and stick with it.
For example, use feet and inches throughout your notes rather than switching between feet, inches, and centimetres.
You can also write measurements in a consistent format such as:
Width: 12′ 6″
Height: 8′
Keeping everything consistent makes your measurements easier to review and reduces the chance of confusion.
Double-Check Your Measurements
Before sending your measurements, take a second look.
It is easy to accidentally write down the wrong number or measure the wrong section of a wall.
If possible, measure important dimensions twice. If two measurements don’t match, check the area again rather than guessing.
A few extra minutes of measuring can save you from unnecessary back-and-forth later.
How to Measure for Mirrors: What to Send
If you’re requesting a quote, try to provide more than just the total wall width.
A useful measurement summary could look like this:
Wall 1
Width: 12′ 6″
Height: 8′
Wall 2
Width: 10′
Height: 8′
Wall features:
One 3′ doorway
Two electrical outlets
One window
You can also include photos of the walls and any areas that may need special attention.
The more clearly the space is described, the easier it is to understand what the project may require.
How S&B Uses Your Measurements
Once you know how to measure for mirrors, the next step is to organize the information clearly so your installer can understand the space.
S&B Mirror Installers’ current process asks customers to measure their walls and send the dimensions when requesting an estimate or placing an order. The company states that it does not offer on-site estimates, so providing accurate measurements and useful photos is an important part of getting the process started.
S&B also offers mirrors that can be cut to fit on-site, which can be useful when a wall has dimensions or features that require a more precise fit.
If you’re unsure about a particular measurement, it’s better to mention the uncertainty rather than make an assumption.
What If Your Wall Isn’t Perfectly Straight?
Don’t worry if your space isn’t a simple rectangle.
Older buildings, commercial spaces, gyms, studios, and other properties can have walls with corners, uneven sections, or other features that make measuring more complicated.
Just document what you can.
Measure each section separately, take photos, and make notes about anything unusual. This gives the installer more information to work with when determining the best approach.
Professional Installation Still Matters
Measuring the wall is an important first step, but it is only part of the overall process.
The National Glass Association provides technical guidance on flat glass mirror installation, including recommendations intended to help prolong the life of installed mirrors.
Once the measurements and layout have been determined, proper handling and installation are still important for achieving a secure and professional result.
Ready to Measure for Your Mirror Project?
Knowing how to measure for mirrors can make the beginning of your project much easier.
Start with the wall width and height, then document doors, windows, outlets, corners, and anything else that could affect the available space. Take clear photos and double-check your measurements before sending them.
You don’t need to have every installation detail figured out. Just provide a clear picture of the space.
At S&B Mirror Installers, you can send your wall dimensions to get started with your mirror project.
Ready to measure your space? Contact S&B Mirror Installers with your measurements and photos to start planning your mirror installation.
