The first question when hanging a wall clock is: "...will a nail suffice or should I use a screw?". The choice depends on the wall on which you want to hang it and the weight of the wall clock. Here's how to decide which option is best:
Solid wall (e.g. masonry or wood).
If your wall is solid, you can use a nail or screw, which is always the safest solution. Nails are usually easier to install. Make sure you use a nail that is strong enough to support the weight of the wall clock. Screws offer more stability and security, especially for heavier watches. You can pre-drill a small pilot hole to facilitate the installation of the screw.
Hollow wall or plasterboard.
If your wall is hollow or made of plasterboard, it is advisable to use a dowel with a screw. This offers greater strength and security than a nail. There are plugs specifically for plasterboard, but there are also many masonry plugs that are also suitable for plasterboard. Always check the specific instructions supplied with your wall clock, as they may include specific recommendations for installation.
Once you have chosen the type of fixing, to hang a wall clock correctly, follow these steps:
1) Choose the location: decide where you want to hang the clock on the wall. Make sure it is at a height and in a position where it is comfortable to read the time from different angles in the room.
2) Necessary tools and materials: gather the necessary tools and materials, including a hammer, a spirit level, a pencil, a nail and a piece of paper tape. Also a drill, a screw and a dowel if the wall is not solid.
3) Prepare the clock: remove the clock from its packaging and check the shape and location of the back hole for hanging it. Most wall clocks have a central hole or hook. Measure the distance (which we will call X) between the point of the hook and the top edge of the dial.
4) Positioning: present the wall clock on the wall and place it in the desired position. Now take a small piece of paper tape and stick it on the wall just above the top edge of the dial.
5) Measure and mark: remove the clock and go down from the bottom edge of the piece of paper tape perpendicular to the floor to measure X. Here make a mark with a pencil.
6) Drill and mount: depending on the type of mounting you have chosen you can either proceed with a hammer and nail or use a drill to drill a hole in the wall where you have made the mark. Make sure that the diameter of the hole is suitable for the screw or dowel you are using. Then, screw the screw or dowel into the hole.
7) Adjust the clock: you can now adjust the clock according to the current time and your preferences. Do not move the hands by hand but use the small wheel on the back of the mechanism.
8) Insert the battery: make sure you insert the battery the right way round and all the way into the battery compartment otherwise it may not work properly.
9) Hang the wall clock: you can now hang the clock on the screw or nail. Make sure it is firm and straight before removing your hands.
10) Check the level: use the spirit level to make sure the watch is straight. If it is not, adjust it until it is perfectly level. It may be sufficient to stand back and make a visual check.
11) Admire the result: now that the clock is hung correctly, admire your work and enjoy the new addition to your interior decoration.
Remember to always consult the specific instructions supplied with your wall clock, as details may vary depending on the model.
