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What is Mirror Mastic?

By Klaus Strasser
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 30,997
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A mirror mastic typically refers to a type of adhesive that is used to attach mirrors to walls and other surfaces. This can eliminate the need for a frame or other device to mount the mirror. It generally resists drying or cracking, and does not damage the lining of the mirror. Mirror mastic is usually available at home improvement stores, hardware shops, and glass and mirror stores.

Mastic adhesives are bonding agents. Some types of mastic are heavy-duty adhesives used in construction work, for tasks such as flooring and roofing. Mirror mastic is an adhesive that is specially designed for mirrors. Some products can attach mirrors to a wide variety of surfaces, such as wood, concrete, paint, and metal. Other types of mastic may be designed for specific types of mirrors, such as acrylic or plate glass.

Usually, mirror mastics work best at an ideal temperature of both the wall and the mirror. This temperature is usually stated on the packaging. Depending on the brand, mirror mastic is either applied to the back of the mirror or to the wall. It is also normally applied on surfaces that have already been cleaned of dust and dirt. The quantity of mastic used generally depends on two factors, the type of surface and the size and type of mirror that is to be mounted.

After the application of the mastic, it is generally recommended to mount the mirror to the wall as soon as possible. This is to help ensure that the adhesive bonds to the surface. During the bonding time, the mirror should also be fastened to the wall using clips or some other type of mounting device, to prevent it from falling down. The bonding time varies according to the type of mastic, however, it generally takes about 48 hours.

Mirror mastics can differ in terms of price, quality, and material. Many are asbestos and asphalt free products, which can be a good option for the health-conscious consumer. Other mastics will specify that they will not do damage to the wall surface, which can be something to consider if the homeowner wants to eventually change the location of the mirror. Many types are also designed so that the mastic will not damage the back of the mirror. They can also come in a variety of different colors, but the most common mastic color is black.

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Discussion Comments
By discographer — On Sep 24, 2013

@MikeMason-- Nope, mirror mastic will not come off later. It will be as hard as a rock and you will have to use a hammer or something like that to get it off. It will definitely damage the wall or the mirror backing.

By literally45 — On Sep 24, 2013

@anon327198-- Yes, mirror mastic will definitely outlast double sided foam. I had a mirror attached to the wall with mirror mastic for three years. You just have to make sure that you apply enough mirror mastic and attach the mirror to the wall with something else while the mastic hardens. If you don't use something else to keep the mirror in place while the mastic becomes fixed, it might not work.

By stoneMason — On Sep 24, 2013

@anon327198-- I had the same thing happen to me but I used liquid nail to hang up the mirror instead of double sided foam. My mirror fell off the next day and broke into a million pieces. I want to try mirror mastic but I'm scared that the same thing will happen.

Also, I'm not sure if the mirror mastic will come off easily from the mirror and the wall if I ever want to remove the mirror.

Does anyone here have experience with mirror mastic? Do you recommend it?

By anon327198 — On Mar 26, 2013

Will mirror mastic outlast double sided foam? Double sided foam splits after time. One side still attached to the wall while the other side although still attached to the tile. The mirror is already on the floor in pieces.

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