Custom Mirror: Everything You Need to Know Before Ordering
“I’ll just buy a mirror at IKEA… I’m sure it will do the same job.”
This is often what we tell ourselves at the start of a project. After all, everyone looks for the simplest solution. If one mirror seems to do the same job as another, why invest more?
And let’s be honest: in some cases, it really is a good solution. If you are looking for a standard mirror for your entrance or bedroom, there are several ready-to-install products that will do the job perfectly well.
But when we’re talking about a bathroom mirror, a bedroom half-wall, a full wall in a home gym, a dining room, or a high-end project, it’s a completely different story.
The mirror then becomes a true architectural element and must be treated as such. It must align with the walls, integrate perfectly with the furniture, reflect light without distorting the image, and remain flawless for years.
And that is often where the differences between a standard mirror and a custom mirror truly begin to show.
Every project is different, but one thing comes up regularly: after assisting hundreds of clients throughout Quebec, our team has noticed that many are unaware of the possibilities offered by a custom mirror until they meet with an expert.
In this article, our experts explain what truly sets a custom mirror apart, the most common mistakes to avoid, and the elements that make all the difference when you want to invest in a durable project.
In Short
If your project simply involves hanging a small decorative mirror, a standard model bought in a store may be perfectly fine.
On the other hand, if you want a mirror perfectly adapted to your space, with an impeccable finish, better rigidity, more customization options, and professional installation, custom-made is often the best investment.
As with many renovations, the right choice depends less on the sticker price than on the desired result.
Why Are Custom Mirrors Gaining So Much Popularity?
You just need to flip through a few home decor magazines or browse Instagram or Pinterest for five minutes to realize: large mirrors are everywhere.
Minimalist bathroom.
Home gym (very trendy right now).
Commercial training room.
Majestic entrance.
Restaurant.
Wine cellar.
Dining room.
And so on…
Mirrors are no longer just for checking if our hair looks like a bird’s nest in the morning. They are now part of the complete design of a room. They bring in light, create a feeling of space, and often become the centerpiece of the decor.
At Vitrerie BV, this evolution translates into a constant increase in requests for fully personalized projects. Why?
Because houses are almost never perfectly standard. Walls sometimes have slight out-of-square deviations, ceilings are not always perfectly straight, and each project has its own constraints. Imagine installing a mirror in an old house in the Plateau-Mont-Royal, on a brick wall that is anything but perfectly straight. That’s where the real challenge begins… and where custom-made truly makes sense.
This is exactly why custom-made is so appealing.
An IKEA Mirror vs. a Custom Mirror: Are They Really Comparable?
The question comes up constantly. And the answer is simple: Yes… but only to a certain extent.
It’s a bit like comparing a suit bought online after seeing the same ad ten times… with a suit crafted by a tailor. Both allow you to go to a wedding.
But one was designed exactly for you. A big-box store mirror is manufactured to predefined dimensions. If your space exactly matches the available sizes, great. If not, your project will have to adapt to the mirror. With a custom mirror, it is exactly the opposite.
Each piece is manufactured according to the actual dimensions of your space.
A shelf in the way?
A wall light?
An electrical outlet?
A beam?
A slightly uneven ceiling?
Everything is taken into account even before fabrication.
The result is much more integrated and truly gives the impression that the mirror has been part of the room since day one.
It’s Not Just About Dimensions
Many people think that a custom mirror is just cutting a mirror to the right size. In reality, that’s only a small part of the job.
Before fabrication, specialists analyze:
- out-of-square walls;
- ceiling irregularities;
- electrical outlets;
- lighting fixtures;
- built-in furniture;
- moldings;
- transport and installation constraints.
It’s often at this stage that an expert glazier’s experience makes all the difference.
Our advice
“Often, the most complex part is not making the mirror. It’s taking the measurements. Walls are not always straight, and ceilings can have imperfections. Our job is to anticipate these details before fabrication so that the result is as seamless as possible.”
This expertise also prevents costly re-dos and last-minute adjustments.
Mirror Quality: A Detail That Stands Out
Two mirrors can look identical in a photo. Once installed, it’s a different story.
Standard mirrors sold in stores often use a 3 mm thickness, which is particularly suited to small sizes or cabinet doors.
Custom mirrors are generally made of 5 mm glass, while very large formats often use 6 mm to offer better rigidity and easier installation. This difference might seem minor on paper.
In reality, it affects:
- the mirror's rigidity;
- ease of handling;
- the quality of the final result;
- the feeling of sturdiness;
- long-term durability.
One millimetre can seem insignificant… but in reality, it makes all the difference.
This extra thickness also plays an important role during transport and installation. A 3 mm mirror is much more fragile to handle, especially in large formats. Carrying a huge mirror up a narrow staircase or down a hallway is riskier than with a 5 mm or 6 mm mirror, which offers greater rigidity. This is also one of the reasons why experts adapt the mirror’s thickness to each specific project.
Finishes That Give a Mirror Its Character
For a long time, choosing a mirror was relatively simple. Rectangular. Clear. You hung it on the wall or ceiling… and that was it.
Today, there are far more possibilities. A mirror has become a true decorative element and is a major trend in interior design, much like a glass backsplash, custom furniture, or wall paneling.
When undertaking a custom mirror project, many clients are surprised to discover the range of possibilities: shapes, sizes, finishes, frames, cutouts for lights or electrical outlets… The options are much broader than you might think.
The Polished Edge: The Great Classic
The most popular finish remains the polished edge. Why? Because it is safe, elegant, and timeless.
The edge is carefully polished to remove any sharp corners. The result is discreet and fits just as well in a contemporary bathroom as in a gym or retail space.
It’s kind of like the blue jeans of mirrors: it never goes out of style.
Frames: When the Mirror Becomes a Decor Element
Want to add more personality? It is possible to add a decorative frame around the mirror.
Matte black. Brass. Bronze. Wood. The possibilities are vast.
Contrary to what many think, the frame is not used to hold the mirror. It is purely an aesthetic element installed after the mirror is mounted to complete the room’s design.
The Beveled Mirror: The Big Comeback
If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, chances are you’ve seen a beveled mirror.
Maybe even at your grandparents’ house. For a few years, this type of finish had practically disappeared.
Today? It is quietly making a comeback in many high-end projects.
Beveling consists of creating a slight slope around the mirror’s edge to produce a particularly elegant sense of depth. Depending on the project, this bevel can measure about half an inch or more. The result is much more refined than a simple straight cut.
Our advice
“Beveling is quietly coming back into fashion. It’s not a daily request yet, but we are seeing more and more designers incorporating it into their projects. Since the manufacturing is more specialized, you sometimes have to plan for a slightly longer lead time.”
2027 Trends: The End of the “Standard” Mirror
For many years, almost all projects used the same clear mirror.
Today, trends evolve quickly. Architects and designers are looking for more personality.
At Vitrerie BV, we have noticed a significant increase in requests for:
- bronze mirrors;
- smoked grey mirrors;
- large wall-to-wall panels;
- organic shapes;
- full-height mirrors.
These finishes create a much warmer atmosphere than a traditional mirror. A bronze mirror, for example, brings a more muted, luxurious touch that pairs particularly well with natural wood and black finishes.
The grey mirror, on the other hand, is highly appreciated in contemporary decors.
In other words, the mirror is no longer just there to check your bedhead. It has become a true design element that contributes to the character, brightness, and ambiance of a room.
Can a Mirror Be Made in Any Shape?
The answer is simple: Practically, yes. Unlike mirrors sold in stores, a custom mirror can be shaped exactly to the configuration of your space.
Do you dream of a mirror that is:
- round;
- oval;
- arched;
- asymmetrical;
- hexagonal;
- full-height;
- installed between two walls;
- installed on the ceiling;
- with cutouts around lights or electrical outlets?
All of this is possible. And contrary to what many imagine, choosing a round or arched shape has virtually no impact on the mirror’s quality.
The choice is primarily aesthetic.
Large Mirrors: A True “Wow” Effect
If there is one trend that continues to grow, it is large mirrors. Very large mirrors. Sometimes even a complete wall.
Why? Because a mirror has a unique ability: it completely transforms the perception of a space.
A small hallway appears wider.
A bathroom seems much brighter.
A dining room gains depth.
A restaurant looks twice as large.
And no…
It’s not just an impression. It’s true!
Is It Really a Myth That Mirrors Make a Room Look Larger?
Not at all. Pierre-Hugues sees it regularly during installations.
Designers have long used mirrors to create a sense of depth.
In some projects, the result is so convincing that visitors hesitate for a few seconds before realizing they are looking at a mirror.
An Anecdote That Perfectly Summarizes the Phenomenon
During a project carried out by Vitrerie BV, a huge mirror was installed in front of a concrete column. The result was so successful that many people no longer even noticed the column was there.
Even funnier… AND THIS IS TRUE!
A client walked into the room and started waving… at his own twin brother. Well, that’s what he thought. He was simply waving at his reflection in the mirror.
It goes to show that a good mirror can sometimes play tricks… even on twins!
A Mirror for Every Room in the House
When we think of custom mirrors, we almost automatically picture the bathroom. However, today they find their place in many other spaces.
For example:
Bathroom mirror
The classic. The dimensions are adapted to the sinks, lighting, and cabinetry.
Home or commercial gym mirror
Large panels improve brightness while creating a much more motivating environment.
In fact, Vitrerie BV has completed several projects for fitness centers in Quebec.
Vestibule / Entrance mirror
At home as in a business, a large mirror always makes a good impression… especially when it’s the first thing your guests or clients see.
Dining room
A well-positioned mirror adds a tremendous amount of depth while reflecting natural light.
Commercial spaces
Restaurants, boutiques, restaurant wine cellars, hair salons, jewelry stores. The possibilities are practically endless.
How Do You Mount a Mirror on a Wall?
When you look at an installed mirror, everything seems simple.
It’s straight.
Well-aligned.
It almost seems to float on the wall.
Yet, this apparent simplicity hides hours of preparation and a host of small details that make all the difference. It’s a bit like a dish served in a Michelin-starred restaurant. At first glance, everything seems simple. However, every ingredient, every cooking technique, and every detail has been carefully thought out to achieve this result.
Installing a custom mirror works exactly the same way. But how is a mirror attached to a wall?
This is probably one of the questions our experts hear most often. Contrary to what many imagine, large mirrors generally don’t hold up with a few screws… nor by magic. Depending on the project, several methods can be used.
Silicone Gluing
In the majority of residential projects, the mirror is installed directly with silicone onto drywall or ceramic.
This method offers several advantages:
- excellent stability;
- discreet finish;
- no visible hardware;
- excellent durability.
When the backing is properly prepared, this technique offers an extremely solid result. Yes, even on a ceramic wall.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that silicone adheres perfectly to this type of surface when properly applied.
Wood Cleats: The Solution for Backlit Mirrors
Backlit mirrors are increasingly popular, but their installation is different. In this type of project, the team often uses what is called a wood cleat (or French cleat).
This is a mounting system hidden behind the mirror that allows you to:
- completely hide the mounting hardware;
- leave the necessary space for electrical components;
- easily install and, if necessary, remove the mirror.
It creates the illusion that the mirror is floating slightly in front of the wall. And that is exactly the desired effect.
Why Are Moldings Used Less and Less?
In the past, many mirrors were held in place by small metal moldings or clips. Today, this method is much less popular because it offers less stability than full gluing or an adapted mounting system.
At Vitrerie BV, safety is always the priority.
A mirror is heavy. When properly installed, it should never be a cause for concern.
Safety Film: A Small Addition That Can Make a Big Difference
This is probably the least known option… and yet one of the smartest.
On some projects, it is possible to add a safety film to the back of the mirror. Its purpose is simple: if the mirror were to break, the pieces remain held together by the film instead of falling to the floor. The mirror does not become unbreakable, but it becomes much safer.
This option is often recommended in places like:
- gyms;
- training rooms;
- schools;
- daycares;
- areas frequented by children;
- certain commercial buildings.
It is not a mandatory option. It simply offers extra peace of mind.
Our advice
“We don’t recommend it because it’s a profitable option. We recommend it when the context justifies it. If the mirror is installed in a place where safety is more critical, we always prefer to discuss it with the client.”
Taking Measurements: Probably the Most Important Step
Surprisingly… the mirror is often not the hardest part of the project. The real difficulty lies a few weeks prior to fabrication. During the measurement phase, because a house is almost never perfectly straight. Ceilings sometimes have a slight curve. Walls can be slightly tilted. Corners are not always 90 degrees. To the naked eye, these imperfections often go unnoticed.
But when you install a huge, perfectly straight mirror… they become immediately visible. This is exactly why Vitrerie BV takes the measurements itself. The goal is not simply to measure width and height. The goal is to anticipate anything that could influence the final result.
Our opinion
“Clients often think that making the mirror is the complex part. In reality, it’s mostly taking the measurements. Our job is to foresee the building’s small flaws even before the glass is manufactured.”
Why We Advise Against Taking Your Own Measurements
The internet is full of videos showing how to measure for a mirror. And honestly… measuring a width and a height is not very complicated.
What is much more difficult is detecting:
- an out-of-square wall;
- a slight deformation in the ceiling;
- a forgotten electrical outlet;
- a lighting fixture that encroaches on the mirror;
- molding that wasn't planned for;
- a slightly recessed column.
It’s often this type of detail that turns a simple project into a headache. At Vitrerie BV, we prefer to take responsibility for this step. That way, if an adjustment is necessary, our team handles it. That is exactly what the majority of clients are looking for: a turnkey project with no unpleasant surprises.
How Much Does a Custom Mirror Cost?
This is probably THE question that comes up most often. And like many renovation projects, the answer is… it depends. Sorry, unfortunately there is no universal answer that applies to all projects (No, we do not have an IKEA or RONA-style catalog).
The price is primarily calculated based on:
- the area of the mirror;
- the type of finish chosen;
- the thickness of the glass;
- the necessary cutouts;
- the holes for electrical outlets or lighting;
- the shape of the mirror;
- the installation.
In other words, two mirrors of the exact same dimensions can have a different price simply because one requires several complex cutouts while the other is perfectly rectangular. Finishes also influence the cost.
A standard clear mirror generally remains the most economical option.
Bronze, smoked grey, or ultra-clear finishes require different manufacturing processes and are therefore generally more expensive.
Is Custom-Made Much More Expensive?
Not always. When comparing only the sticker price, a mirror bought in a big-box store will often seem less expensive.
But several elements are not included:
- taking measurements;
- adapting to the walls;
- custom cutouts;
- transport;
- handling;
- installation.
Once all these elements are added, many homeowners realize that the gap is sometimes smaller than they imagined.
Especially when the result will be installed for the next 15 or 20 years.
The Mistakes Our Experts See Most Often
After hundreds of projects carried out throughout the Greater Montreal area and elsewhere in Quebec, certain mistakes come up regularly.
1. Choosing Based Solely on Price
A mirror is installed for a long time. It is generally not a project you want to redo in two years. The initial cost is important… but manufacturing quality, installation, and durability are just as important.
2. Believing That All Walls Are Perfectly Straight
At first glance… Yes.
In reality… Very few houses have perfectly square walls. A few millimetres can be enough to make a huge mirror look crooked. That is exactly why professional measurement is so important.
3. Forgetting Technical Details
Electrical outlets. Switches. Lighting fixtures. Shelves. Furniture. These elements must be planned for before manufacturing. Once the mirror is cut, it’s too late.
4. Underestimating Transport
We often think about the mirror… rarely about the journey to get it to the bathroom. Stairs. Corners. Elevators. Hallways. That is often where the real difficulty lies.
An Anecdote That Reminds Us Why We Shouldn't Underestimate Transport
Pierre-Hugues, one of our expert glaziers, still remembers a project from several years ago. Two installers had to carry a huge mirror up a staircase.
Everything was going well… Until a corner of the mirror caught the wall. The glass shattered. Fortunately, the employee suffered no injuries. Since then, handling methods, equipment, and procedures have evolved immensely.
According to Pierre-Hugues, this experience is a reminder of one important thing:
“Installing a large-format mirror is not simply about resting it against a wall. Every project requires planning, experience, and a team trained to handle glass safely during transport.”
How Does a Project Work at Vitrerie BV?
Everything starts with precise measurements, followed by custom manufacturing and installation carried out by our team to ensure flawless results.
To discover each step in detail, visit our Custom Mirror page. You will find our complete process, from the quote to the installation.
Notre conseil
Over the years, Pierre-Hugues has assisted hundreds of homeowners, designers, and contractors with their custom glass projects.
His advice is always the same:
“The most important thing isn’t just the mirror. It’s everything around it: the measurements, the preparation, the installation, and the little details you don’t always see. That is often what makes the difference between an okay project… and an exceptional one.”
In Conclusion
A custom mirror is not reserved for luxury projects.
Above all, it is a solution that provides a result perfectly adapted to your space, regardless of the constraints of your home or business.
Whether you are renovating a bathroom, building a home gym, transforming a dining room, or simply wanting to bring more light into a room, a well-designed mirror can completely change the perception of a space.
And unlike decor trends that pass quickly, a high-quality custom mirror stands the test of time without losing its elegance.
If you are still hesitating between a standard product and a personalized solution, the best starting point is often a discussion with an expert.
At Vitrerie BV, we take the time to understand your project before proposing a solution. Because good advice is often worth much more than just a price tag.
By the way, if you are planning other glass projects, also check out our Guide to Glass by Project Type, our projects in Interior Glass Partitions, our article on Ultra-Clear Glass, as well as our advice on Glass Railings. You will find plenty of ideas to harmonize your entire layout.
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Behind the Glass
We make every custom glass project truly exceptional with clear and fast quotes, flawless installations, and follow-ups as transparent as our glass.
A transparent service in custom glazing
Whether you are a contractor, designer, or homeowner, we make your construction or renovation project truly exceptional.
It all starts with a detailed quote in under 48 hours. With clear explanations, expert advice, and a personalized approach, you know exactly what to expect, how much your project will cost, and how it will be executed.
Our ambition is simple: to offer a customer experience as polished as each of our projects.