Nothing is more frustrating than struggling to hang a picture because no one likes to see a crooked frame or hear a bang when it falls to the ground. Hanging pictures correctly requires some thought and a little skill. If you’d like to avoid the frustration and save time in the process, hire a professional to hang your picture frames, artwork, and more.

When you need straight, secure, professionally hung pictures in your home, call your local Mr. Handyman. We can get the job done no matter what size, shape, and weight of the frame. And we can get your project done right the first time. Need help with other projects around the house, we’re ready to get all the projects on your to-do list done.

Room finished with drywall.

We can hang a wide variety of items on your wall, such as:

  • Family Portraits
  • Mirrors
  • Paintings
  • Art Work
  • Clocks
  • Certificates
  • Degrees & Diplomas
  • Animal Mounts

Professional Picture Hanging Tips:

  • Hang pictures so the middle of the frame is at eye level for an average height person.
  • Use good hardware to hang pictures to ensure they don’t fall from the weight of the frame.
  • If, and when available, hang items from a wall stud for better stability.
  • A bit of planning can go a long way when it comes to hanging art. Place artwork in its designated spot prior to hanging it on the wall to get a feel for how it will look.
  • For very large paintings and pictures, hire professional picture-hanging services to ensure proper placement and stability.

Tips on Hanging Pictures on Drywall

Interested in hanging some pictures yourself but concerned you’ll damage the walls? We recommend calling one of our picture-hanging professionals. However, if you’d like to do it yourself, consider the following tips:

  • Pick the lightest possible frame for your pictures or artwork because drywall can only support a specific amount of weight.
  • Make sure you use the proper supports when hanging heavier items. Use wall fasteners that are rated for specific weights, and, when possible, use a stud finder. Locating and utilizing studs to hang your items will add stability and allow you to hang heavier items.
  • Remember that mistakes are fixable. Our team of drywall repair experts can repair your damaged drywall and make it look like nothing ever happened.

Picture-Hanging Service FAQs

For over 25 years, Mr. Handyman professionals have been helping homeowners repair, maintain, and enhance their space. We are a one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list. This includes answering your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about picture hanging:

What is a general rule for hanging pictures?

The general rule for hanging pictures is to position the centre of the artwork at eye level, which is typically about 57-60 inches from the floor. This height creates a balanced, visually appealing look for most spaces. If you're hanging multiple pictures, such as on a gallery wall, treat the entire arrangement as one piece and centre it at the same height.

When hanging pictures above furniture like a sofa or console table, leave about six to eight inches of space between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the frame. Be sure to use appropriate hardware based on the weight of the picture and the type of wall for extra security.

Can pictures be hung on brick or concrete walls?

Yes, but it requires a different approach than hanging them on drywall. One option is to use masonry nails, which are specifically designed for tougher surfaces like brick and concrete.

Another option used by picture-hanging services is concrete screws or anchors, which require drilling small holes into the wall. If you want to avoid making holes, there are also adhesive hooks or brick clips that can work depending on the weight of the picture.

Is assistance available for creating a picture wall or gallery-style arrangement?

Yes, a picture hanging service near you should be able to assist. Many people turn to interior designers for professional help, but there are also easier DIY resources. You can find templates or layout ideas online, which guide you on how to arrange different sizes and styles of frames.

Some home improvement stores and framing shops even offer design services or advice for creating a balanced, cohesive look. There are also helpful tools, like removable wall hooks or adhesive strips, that make it easier to experiment with placements before committing to hanging anything permanently.

How do I prevent picture frames from tilting or shifting?

If you're tired of picture frames tilting or shifting, there are a few easy tricks to keep them in place. Try using picture hanging strips – they hold the frame securely and let you adjust it without damaging the wall.

You can also stick small rubber bumpers or adhesive putty to the bottom corners to help the frame grip the wall. Hanging the frame with two hooks instead of one helps distribute the weight evenly and prevents tilting. If you're using wire, make sure it's tight, or consider using D-rings for more stability. And for extra grip, you can always add a bit of non-slip tape to the bottom edge.

How much weight can drywall hold without a stud?

Drywall on its own can only hold five to ten pounds with a basic nail or screw. Use wall anchors for anything heavier. For example, plastic anchors can support around 10-25 pounds, while self-drilling anchors are rated a bit stronger, holding up to 50 pounds. If you’re hanging something large like a mirror or shelf, molly bolts or toggle bolts are your best bet, as they can typically hold anywhere from 25 to 50 pounds or more. Professional picture services near you can help you chart the best course of action.

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