Do you want to spice up the look of your garden and are wondering if you can place a mirror outdoors? If you think that mirrors can make your garden look interesting, but is hesitant to use them because they might not be safe, we have shared tips and information below that you can refer to.
Can mirrors be used outdoors? Indoor mirrors can be used outdoors as long as they are placed strategically. On the other hand, if you want to place the mirror in the garden where it is exposed to elements, make sure that you use a specific type of mirror. There are outdoor mirrors that can withstand weather and temperature changes. Mirrors can be used to enhance and transform your outdoor area.
Using mirrors to decorate your outdoor provides the illusion of space. On the other hand, you need to be careful where you place the mirror. It should reflect beautiful scenery such as the garden and the fountains. Strategically placing the mirror will bring dimension and brightness to the garden. Let us learn more about this below.
Why Use Mirrors Outdoors?
Outdoor mirrors are used to improve dimensions and add brightness into the space. They can also be used as a good focal point for the garden. A small garden can benefit from a mirror because it provides the illusion of space. Aside from that, mirrors can be used to reflect sunlight to brighten a shady garden. Mirrors also bring attention to the beautiful surroundings.
Creates the Illusion of Space
One of the reasons why it is ideal to use outdoor mirrors is that it creates the illusion of space. If you have a small garden, you can strategically place a mirror to make it look spacious. Moreover, installing mirrors on outdoor walls provides the illusion that the garden continues to another area.
Reflects Beautiful Sceneries
Another reason why outdoor mirrors are ideal is that they can reflect the beautiful sceneries. Strategically placing the mirror in the garden can reflect the stunning flower beds that you have. Moreover, it can highlight the impact of beautiful plants or other elements like the fountains and statues by making them bigger.
Brightens Shady Areas
Outdoor mirrors can provide additional illumination to the shady areas of the garden. Mirrors reflect light and illuminate everything around them. This is a great idea if some areas in your garden are not receiving adequate light. The sunlight that is reflected from the mirror can help the plants grow.
Add Aesthetic Look
Mirrors can also add to the beauty of your outdoor surroundings. The strategic placement of the mirror can add interest. For instance, you can place the mirror in an area where it reflects the fountain. The reflection can then be viewed in another area of the garden.
Provides Illusion
Another reason why outdoor mirrors are ideal is that they provide an illusion. The right placement can make the shrubs longer than they are. A single flower bed can also look abundant which transforms the look and feel of the place.
✅ Video – Burke’s Backyard Garden Mirror
BurkesBackyard shared the video below on YouTube. In the video, Don Burke shows how to install a mirror in the garden. It is a good idea for small garden spaces. Watch the video below for more tips and information.
Is there a Difference between an Outdoor and an Indoor Mirror?
When it comes to outdoor and indoor mirrors, there are no major differences other than the material that is used for the glass and the frame. Outdoor mirrors are usually made from tough materials that will not easily break or get damaged when exposed to outdoor weather changes. Aside from that, the frames are also different. Usually, garden mirrors have galvanized brackets that hold the frames. The frames should also be rust and weatherproof.
How to Weatherproof Mirrors for Outdoor Use?
To weatherproof mirrors so that you can use them outdoors, you need to follow some steps which include choosing a mirror sealer, preparing the work area, applying the sealer, and waiting for it to dry. If you want a non-acrylic mirror that is scratch-resistant, you need to use a sealer to seal the edges. Using a sealer will weatherproof the mirror and protect it from rusting desilvering when exposed to various weather conditions.
Choosing a Sealer
The first thing that you need to do is to purchase a sealer for the edge of the mirror. You can check your local home depot or you can also purchase online. The sealer protects the edges of the mirror and prevents the appearance of black dots that can lead to desilvering. Moreover, sealers protect the mirrors from moisture and cleaning materials. You can find sealers with pressurized sprays and self-applicator mechanisms for easy application.
Preparing the Work Area
The next step that you need to do is to prepare the work area. Make sure that you apply the sealer in a well-ventilated area. Protect the ground by covering it with newspapers. Place above it and start sealing.
Sealer Application
Once you have prepared the work area, it is time to apply the sealer. Use a wide brush for the application and evenly spread the sealer on the edges of the mirror. If you purchased a spray sealer, gently spray it to the edge of the mirror. Make sure to wear gloves, a mask, and other protective gear when applying the sealant to the mirror.
Drying
The last step is to allow the sealer to dry which usually takes around two to three hours. Once it is completely dry, dip a washcloth to denatured alcohol or glass cleaner to remove visible sealant residue from the surface of the mirror. You can also read this article that discusses what causes mirrors to tarnish. We have shared helpful information that you can refer to.
Things to Consider When Placing Mirrors Outdoors
Make sure that you place the mirror in a strategic location so that it will not pose a danger to birds that may fly into your garden. While mirrors are safe for outdoor use, see to it that they do not face the sun directly. Aside from that, do not install mirrors in an area in your garden that is exposed to sunlight for long hours in a day. This is because there are instances, no matter how rare, that mirrors can cause a fire. You can also check out this article that discusses if you can hang a garden mirror on a fence. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
What is the Best Material for an Outdoor Mirror?
The best material for an outdoor mirror includes glass and acrylic. Acrylic is an ideal material because it can create mirrors that are ten times more durable as compared to glass. Mirrors made from acrylic are shatterproof and also lighter so you can easily hang them on fences. Aside from that, acrylic mirrors can be screwed into a flat surface. You can cut them into any shape that you want. On the other hand, mirrors made from glass are strong and also resistant to minor scratches. It is weatherproof which is ideal for outdoor use. You can also check out this article that discusses if WiFi mirrors are framed. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
Can You Put Regular Mirrors Outdoors?
You can put regular mirrors outdoors. On the other hand, they are not as durable or weatherproof as compared to mirrors that are made for outdoor use. One of the problems with outdoor mirrors is that they are usually made of polished metal or plastic. You should choose acrylic mirrors because they are weatherproof and also stronger as compared to glass. Moreover, you can choose plastic mirrors that are safe, shatterproof, and lightweight.
What is the Best Size for an Outdoor Mirror?
The best size for outdoor mirrors will have to depend on your preferences and what the available space requires. What is the main purpose of the mirror? Take note that choosing the size of the outdoor mirror depends on various factors. The best choice is the one that will suit your garden. You can choose from a wide array of sizes available on the market. A large and wide mirror is ideal if you want to make the area look more spacious. Make sure that you check the measurement of the space so that you can find the best size. Having the right size of the mirror is important because it will create a balanced look into the garden.
Are Outdoor Mirrors Safe?
When used properly, outdoor mirrors are safe. Strategic placement is important if you want to achieve the ideal look for your garden. Mirrors create the illusion of space in your garden and also add light to shady areas. A lot of people are worried that outdoor mirrors can cause fires. However, this is a rare occurrence. Make sure that the mirror is not placed directly under the sun. We have also shared this article titled, what to do with old mirrors? You can check out the article for more tips and information.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed if mirrors can be used outdoors. We have found out that mirrors are a great addition to your outdoor decor. It can make your outdoor area more spacious and also add light to the shady parts of your garden. Nowadays, you can choose from a wide array of outdoor mirrors that are sold on the market. Thank you for reading!