Monday, August 12, 2013

Hang A Metal Picture Collage

How you hang a metal picture depends on the weight of the picture and the construction of your wall. If you have a solidly built wall and and can find studs, then the hanging will go quickly. If the wall is crumbly or if you cannot find strong enough fixtures beneath the drywall or sheeting, you'll need to proceed carefully to ensure a proper installation. If you are building the collage yourself, or have some say in the fabrication, it's a very good idea to attach some hanging hardware such as hooks or loop to the back during the construction process.


Instructions


Install the Picture


1. Ensure that the picture has adequate hanging hardware attached to it, and that it is strong enough to hold the weight of the picture. If not, drill holes in an inconspicuous area on the back and use bolts to attach strong hooks. If you want to string wire across the hooks to facilitate hanging, you can, but you can also hang it directly from the hooks. The wire gives a little leeway for adjustment once it is on the wall.


2. Examine the walls to find solid points to attach anchors. If you can find studs, you can drill screws directly into them, but if the picture is heavy, be careful if the studs in the wall are metal rather than wood, as it can be tougher to get a good hold. If you are working on sheetrock, use expanding plastic anchors rated for the weight of the pieces; if the piece is under 50 lbs., you can use the plastic sheetrock anchors that screw directly into the sheetrock. If the wall is concrete, use concrete anchors.


3. Drill holes in the wall where you will be hanging the picture. The packaging for the anchors should indicate the width of the holes needed. Drill deep enough so the entire anchor can be pushed into the hole up to the hilt. If you are using the sheetrock anchors that screw in directly, put a Phillips head tip on the drill and screw it in.


4. Insert screws into the anchors. Leave enough of the screw hanging out so you have something to attach the metal picture to. Test the screws for a snug fit. If there is any give, re-drill the hole elsewhere and insert a new anchor. Don't reuse the same hole.


5. Hang picture on anchor screws using the hardware on the picture.