Comprehensive cost guide on hanging pictures, mirrors and shelves

In the contemporary South African home, decorating and optimizing space involves the regular task of hanging pictures, mirrors, and shelves. As urban living spaces shrink and aesthetic tastes evolve, South Africans are increasingly seeking solutions to enhance their living areas, making the most of walls for both decoration and storage. Hanging items is not only about beautification but also about practicality and space management in South African households.

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Average hanging pictures, mirrors and shelves Costs

Across South Africa, from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban to Pretoria, the national average cost for hanging pictures, mirrors, and shelves can vary considerably based on the complexity and size of the job. Professional picture hanging services may charge between R300 to R600 per hour, with the total cost depending on the number of items to be hung and the nature of the walls. For mirrors and heavy shelves that require more intricate mounting, prices can escalate due to the need for stronger fixings and additional manpower.

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Estimated Costs Associated with hanging pictures, mirrors and shelves

The costs can be broken down into:

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Materials:

• Wall plugs: R10-R50 depending on type and size
• Screws: R2-R10 per screw
• Picture hooks: R50-R200 per set
• Mounting brackets for shelves: R100-R500
• Wire for hanging pictures: R30-R100 per roll
• Heavy-duty anchors for mirrors: R100-R300

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Labour:

• Professional hanging services: R300-R600 per hour
• Additional labour for heavy items: May increase costs by R100-R200 per hour

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Additional Fees:

• Travel fee for service provider: R50-R200
• After-hours surcharge: R100-R300

Prices will fluctuate based on your location within South Africa, the current market rate, and the type of walls you have (plaster, drywall, concrete, etc.).

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How pictures, mirrors and shelves hanged?

The process typically involves:

• Consultation: Discussing what needs to be hung and deciding on the exact location.
• Inspection: Checking the wall type for the appropriate hardware.
• Marking: Precisely marking where hooks or screws will go.
• Installation: Drilling holes, inserting wall plugs, and securing screws or hooks.
• Mounting: Hanging the picture, mirror, or shelf and ensuring it is level.
• Clean-up: Cleaning the area from any debris resulting from the installation.

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How Long Does It Typically Take to hang pictures, mirrors or shelves?

The time it takes to complete these tasks can vary widely. Hanging a single picture might take as little as 15 minutes, while setting up an array of pictures in a gallery wall could take several hours. Heavy mirrors and shelves often require more time, anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour per item, due to the need for precise measurement and secure mounting.

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DIY - hang my own pictures, mirrors or shelves?

For the hands-on South African DIY enthusiast, hanging pictures, mirrors, or shelves can be straightforward with the right tools and a careful approach. You’ll need a drill, appropriate wall plugs, a screwdriver, a hammer, a level, a measuring tape, and possibly a stud finder for heavier items. Ensure you choose the correct fittings for your wall type and the weight of the item. Follow a step-by-step guide or tutorial, take precise measurements, and proceed with caution.

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When Should You Get Professional Help?

While many hanging tasks are within the realm of DIY, you should consider professional help when dealing with very heavy or valuable items, walls made of tricky materials such as concrete or when the layout is complex. Professionals ensure that the job is done safely and securely, with the right tools and expertise to prevent damage to your walls or the items being hung.

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How to Save Money on hanging pictures, mirrors and shelves?

To save money on hanging services, you can:

• Combine multiple tasks into one visit to save on labour costs.
• Prepare the area ahead of time by moving furniture and deciding on placement.
• Shop around for quotes from different service providers.
• Purchase your own materials from hardware stores like Builders Warehouse or Cashbuild.

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Conclusion

Enhancing your home with professionally hung pictures, mirrors, and shelves not only beautifies your space but also ensures safety and durability. For South Africans looking for a hassle-free and professional service, Home+ is your go-to solution. By booking through Home+, you can enjoy the confidence of having your decorative or storage items mounted securely by vetted professionals at competitive prices. Simply download the app or book the service online and enjoy the ease of having everything taken care of for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions about hanging pictures, mirrors and shelves

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Q: How much weight can I hang without professional help?

A: It depends on the wall type, but as a rule of thumb, for light frames and pictures (under 5kg), you can usually hang these yourself. For anything heavier, especially over 10kg, professional help is recommended.

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Q: Can I hang items on a drywall without a stud?

A: Yes, with the right anchors and wall plugs, you can hang items on drywall. However, for heavier items, locating a stud is recommended for added support.

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Q: What is the best way to ensure my picture or shelf is hung level?

A: Use a spirit level, and measure the distance from the ceiling or floor to the point of hanging on both ends to ensure it's even. You can also use laser levels available in most hardware stores.

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Q: How do I know what kind of wall plug or anchor to use?

A: This is determined by the weight of the item you're hanging and the type of wall material. The packaging of wall plugs and anchors usually indicates the suitable weight limit and wall type.

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Q: Is it possible to hang shelves without visible brackets?

A: Yes, floating shelves use internal brackets that are not visible from the outside, providing a clean, minimalist look. Ensure they are installed correctly to bear the intended weight.