Add A Frame or Fully Framed Mirror

Should you frame your existing mirror or replace it?

The right solution depends on the condition of the existing mirror, its dimensions and surrounding clearances, and whether new glass is required. Compare Frame My Mirror's two product lines before you measure or order.

  • Keep suitable existing mirror glass: Add A Frame
  • Choose new glass when replacement is required: Framed Mirror
  • Made-to-order, custom-size options for both product lines
Compare the Two Options Explore Add A Frame

Start with the condition of the existing mirror, should it be replaced or added to?

Add A Frame installed over an existing mirror compared with a complete framed mirror mounted on the wall

Before you order

Three Things to Check on Your Mirror

Most wall mirrors are good candidates for a frame. These quick checks help confirm yours is one of them.

Check the Glass

Frames install over existing glass, so the mirror itself needs to be in reasonable shape.

  • No large cracks running through the glass
  • No missing chunks of silvering
  • Edges are intact enough to sit under a frame

Check How It's Mounted

Most standard wall-mounted mirrors work. A few mounting types need a different approach.

  • Securely attached to the wall
  • Mounted with clips or adhesive, not a built-in cabinet door
  • Flat against the wall, not recessed into it

Check Your Timeline

Frames are made to order, so it helps to know how much lead time you have.

  • Most orders ship within 1 week
  • No demolition or contractor scheduling required
  • Assemble and install in about 30 minutes

Two ways to get there

Frame It, or Replace It?

Most mirrors can be framed as-is. If yours can't, a custom-size replacement is the better fit.

Frame a suitable mirror already installed

Add A Frame

Frame a suitable mirror already installed

A made-to-order frame installs on top of a suitable, wall-mounted mirror, allowing existing glass to remain in place.

  • No contractor visit for glass removal, less turnover downtime
  • Installs around existing lighting and outlets, no electrical work
  • Lowest cost, fastest path between tenants
  • Scales across units without a full renovation budget
Explore Add A Frame Styles
Replace the mirror with Custom-size Framed Mirror

Custom-size Framed Mirrors

Replace the mirror with Custom-size Framed Mirror

A new custom-size mirror and frame together. Best when the glass is damaged or the size needs to change.

  • Mirror and frame included, easy to install
  • Right for damaged or wrong-size mirrors
  • Available in made-to-order dimensions and finishes
Explore Framed Mirror Finishes

Still not sure which is right for your mirror project?

Two Options

Which solution fits your project?

Here's our recommendations and food for thought when deciding whether to go with Add A Frame or custom-size, ready-to-hang framed mirror.

Choose Add A Frame when

The existing mirror can remain in place

Add A Frame is the right choice when the existing glass is undamaged, securely mounted, and correctly positioned, but the mirror needs an upgraded or coordinated appearance.

  • The mirror glass is intact and securely mounted
  • The existing mirror dimensions work for the room
  • You want to avoid removing and disposing of the mirror
  • Any edge deterioration is limited to an area the frame can conceal
  • Fast and easy DIY project, takes about 15 minutes per frame
  • Instant upgrade without the hassle of heavier, framed mirrors
Learn about the measuring for and installing your Add A Frame

Choose a Framed Mirror when

The project requires new mirror glass

A complete Framed Mirror is generally the better choice when the existing glass has got to go, the mirror dimensions need to change, or the project involves a new installation.

  • The mirror is cracked, loose, extensively damaged, or unsuitable
  • The mirror needs to be resized, repositioned, or replaced
  • The project is new construction or a complete bathroom renovation
  • You need the frame and mirror supplied together
  • You want a finished wall-mounted product with new glass
  • Fully assembled with pre-installed hardware makes hanging a breeze
  • Cleat hanging system takes the guesswork out of leveling and centering
Learn more about how to customize your fully-framed mirror

Choosing the right product line

Frequently asked questions about framing or replacing a mirror

Whether you're leaning towards Add A Frame or our custom-size framed mirrors, you may still have some questions. Here's our top FAQs. Either way, measuring, ordering, and installing is easier than you think and we're here every step of the way!

Can Add A Frame be installed over any existing mirror?

Just about. However, the existing mirror must be cleared of debris, securely mounted, and the selected frame must work with the mirror dimensions. Add A Frame installs onto the mirror's surface, and can accommodate surrounding clearances, clips, outlets, backsplashes, fixtures, and other nearby conditions. We'll handle the calculations to ensure and exact fit. Mirrors that are cracked, loose, extensively damaged, or otherwise unsuitable should be replaced.

Can a mirror frame cover chipped edges or desilvering?

A frame may conceal suitable cosmetic deterioration located near the outside perimeter of the mirror. It does not repair the glass or stop deterioration from progressing. Cracks, significant chips, loose glass, or damage extending beyond the area covered by the frame may require mirror replacement.

When is a complete Framed Mirror the better choice?

Choose a complete Framed Mirror when the existing glass cannot remain, the mirror dimensions or position need to change, or the project involves new construction or a complete mirror replacement.

Can Add A Frame accommodate mirror clips, outlets, or a backsplash?

Most clips and surrounding clearances can be accommodated, we'll review this during the ordering process. The required fit depends on the obstruction type, its position, and the available clearance around each side of the mirror. We will provide replacement clips if you have bulky, plastic clips.

Are the measuring requirements different for the two products?

Yes. Add A Frame requires the dimensions of the existing mirror along with the clearances and obstructions around it. We adjust for the frame to overhang to hide the edge of the glass, where possible, or not if so desired. We'll hand the calculations behind this. A complete Framed Mirror requires the desired finished mirror dimensions and confirmation that the wall and surrounding fixtures can accommodate the new product.

Are both product lines available in made-to-order dimensions?

Both product paths can accommodate made-to-order projects, but the submitted dimensions serve different purposes. Add A Frame is made to fit suitable existing glass, while a Framed Mirror is produced as a complete new mirror-and-frame assembly. No complete product comes off the shelf; your frame or framed mirror is cut/assembled and packaged in-house.

Which option involves less disruption?

Add A Frame generally involves less disruption because existing glass remains mounted. A complete Framed Mirror requires removal of the existing mirror or preparation for a new installation, but it is the appropriate choice when new glass is required.

Can I use the same frame style for Add A Frame and Framed Mirror projects?

Some frame profiles and finishes may be available across both product lines, but availability can vary. Review the applicable collection or confirm the required style before coordinating multiple product types within the same project. Reach out to us if you would like design help or latest availability.

Keep the mirror that works - or replace it when it does not

Choose Add A Frame when existing glass can remain in place. Choose a complete Framed Mirror when the project requires new glass, different dimensions, or a full replacement.

Explore Add A Frame Explore Framed Mirrors

Review the mirror condition, dimensions, surrounding clearances, and installation requirements before ordering.