To calculate the quantity and size of picture rail needed for a hanging project, it is important to consider several parameters. Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Measure the length of the wall
- Measure the total length of the walls where you want to install the picture rails.
- If you plan to install picture rails on multiple walls, add their lengths together.
2. Consider angles and connections
- If your walls include corners or junctions , provide connecting accessories (internal or external corners).
- These elements sometimes require a small adjustment in the length of the rail.
3. Determine the desired height
- The picture rails can be fixed either:
- Close to the ceiling (classic and aesthetic solution).
- Half-height (option sometimes used for specific hangings, such as in exhibition galleries).
4. Calculate the number of rails
- Picture rails are often sold in standard lengths (e.g. 2 meters or 3 meters).
- Divide the total measured length by the length of a standard rail to determine the number of rails needed .
- For example: if your wall is 5 meters long and the rails are 2 meters long, you will need 3 rails (5 ÷ 2 = 2.5, rounded to 3 rails).
5. Provide the fixing clips
- Plan for clips every 30 to 40 cm for good stability.
- Number of clips = total length of rails ÷ recommended spacing .
6. Hanging wires and hooks
- Depending on the number of works to be hung:
- Count one thread per work or more if the work is large.
- Wires are often sold in batches or individually (standard length between 1 and 3 meters).
- Plan for one hook per wire , or two if the work is heavy or large.
Calculation example:
6 meter long wall with 4 works to hang:
-
Rails required :
- Wall length = 6 m.
- 2 m rails → 6 ÷ 2 = 3 rails.
-
Clips required :
- Spacing = 40 cm.
- Total length = 600 cm ÷ 40 cm = 15 clips.
-
Suspension wires :
- One work per thread → 4 threads.
- Provide extra threads if needed (adjustments or new works).
-
Hooks :
- One hook per thread minimum → 4 hooks.
Additional tips :
- Add Margin : Allow for one or two extra rails for adjustments or to expand the setup in the future.
- Plan accessories : Think about end caps, corners, or connectors if your walls require junctions.
- Ask for advice : If you are purchasing picture rails from a specialist store, provide your measurements for personalised assistance.
This calculation guarantees you an optimal installation adapted to your needs! ?