How to Troubleshoot Picture Frame Hanging Issues

Quick answer (read this first)

• Determine if your frame is crooked, loose, or falling.
• Carefully remove the frame to inspect its hanging mechanism and wall fastener.
• Replace or reinforce any damaged hooks, wires, or wall plugs/anchors.
• Always use a spirit level for accurate re-hanging and ensure the fastener matches your wall type and frame weight.

Safety first

• Wear safety glasses to protect eyes from dust or debris.
• Use a sturdy step stool or ladder, ensuring it’s stable.
• Be cautious of electrical wiring or plumbing inside walls before drilling.
• Avoid applying excessive force that could damage walls or fingers.

Tools you may need

• Pencil
• Measuring tape
• Spirit level
• Hammer
• Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
• Wall plugs/anchors (rawlplugs)
• Picture hooks (nails, screws, adhesive)
• Drill (if using anchors)

Step-by-step

Step 1

1. Identify the Problem: Clearly determine if the frame is crooked, loose, sagging, or has fallen.

Step 2

2. Safely Remove the Frame: Gently lift the frame off the wall to prevent further damage to the frame or wall.

Step 3

3. Examine Frame Hardware: Check the frame’s hanging wire, D-rings, or sawtooth hanger for looseness, fraying, or damage. Tighten or replace if necessary.

Step 4

4. Inspect Wall Fastener: Look closely at the nail, screw, or hook in the wall for bends, rust, looseness, or an enlarged hole.

Step 5

5. Reinforce or Replace Wall Fastener: If the fastener is loose, remove it. For a widened hole, use a suitable wall plug (rawlplug) and screw. If the existing fastener is damaged, replace it with a new, stronger one appropriate for the frame’s weight and wall type.

Step 6

6. Assess Wall Condition: Ensure the wall material (plaster, concrete, drywall) around the hole is sound. If crumbling, fill the hole with plaster/filler, let it dry, and then re-drill for a new plug.

Step 7

7. Re-hang the Frame: Carefully place the frame back onto the repaired or new wall fastener.

Step 8

8. Level and Secure: Use a spirit level to ensure the frame hangs perfectly straight. Gently push the frame against the wall to confirm stability.

Common mistakes

• Using nails that are too short or thin for the frame’s weight.
• Not using wall plugs (rawlplugs) for plaster or concrete walls.
• Failing to check for stability before letting go of the frame.
• Ignoring the wall material when choosing a hanging method.
• Hanging heavy frames with inadequate single-point fasteners.

When to call a professional

• If the wall plaster is extensively cracked or crumbling.
• When dealing with very large, heavy, or valuable art pieces.
• If you suspect hidden electrical wiring or pipes in the drilling area.
• If multiple frames are causing significant wall damage.
• When professional, aesthetic placement is required for gallery walls.