A mirror is one of those pieces in a home that combines both decor and function. Along with letting you know if there's lipstick on your teeth (yes, it happens), it has a way of making small spaces feel larger and dark rooms appear lighter. But before it does any of that, you have to get it up on the wall. We invited experts to share their pointers on how to hang a mirror (as well as where to do it, and when to bring in a pro) so that you can get it up with ease and get to the best part quickly: Admiring your work.

BEFORE YOU START

• You should know: Not all mirrors are meant to be hung. "Some are designed to be leaners," explains Robert A. Downs of iLevelArt.com in Los Angeles, who has expertly hung mirrors and artwork for stars and design stores ranging from Heidi Klum and Ginnifer Goodwin to Grace Home Furnishings. "For these pieces, it's noted on the back, and if you do hang it and it breaks, a manufacturer's liability won't cover it."
• A cable wire hung across a single hook or nail is out of the question when it comes to safely hanging a mirror. Instead, Downs explains that each "D hook" on the back of the mirror needs its own hook in the wall.

Consider a tilt: Jen Going, of the eponymous interior design firm and Going Home furniture line, recommends hanging a mirror high on the wall at a downward tilt so it reflects more of the room.

HOW TO HANG A MIRROR

• In an entryway: The foyer is the first impression guests have of your aesthetic. Placing a mirror directly above a console table adds a welcoming touch to your space in an instant. Plus, it's the perfect opportunity to have one final look before heading out the door.
• Above the mantel: Position it at least 4-5 inches above the top of the mantel. "But depending on the thickness of the frame, you may want to go higher so you don't get a dark shadow cast on your decor," notes Downs.
• In the bathroom: While many bathroom sinks will come with frameless mirrors mounted on the wall with adhesive, Downs recommends bringing in a professional to add a frame around that mirror for added visual interest. (A less expensive option than breaking the mirror off the wall and starting from scratch!)
• Over difficult surfaces: "Make sure to pick up special drill bits made exclusively for tile, glass, or concrete," advises Downs. Then resume hanging with appropriate hardware as if you were hanging on drywall.

On the door: Choose a full-length mirror and position it so it takes up as much of the door as possible. Mirror clips are an easy way to execute this, but Downs recommends confirming that you have a solid core door to work with so hardware will fasten in properly.