Mirror Replacement in a NYC Apartment: What to Expect

Note: This is a "typical NYC scenario" based on our experience across hundreds of installations. Specific details like location and layout are representative — costs and timelines reflect real ranges we see in the field.

The Scenario

A homeowner in a NYC apartment wants to replace an aging bathroom mirror. The existing mirror is a builder-grade plate mirror glued directly to the wall — common in apartments built or renovated in the 1990s and 2000s. It's developed black spots around the edges (a sign of moisture damage to the mirror backing) and no longer looks clean.

The goal: a new, custom-cut mirror that fits the same space, mounted properly, and looks sharp.

Measurement & Planning

We visit the apartment and measure the wall space above the vanity. Typical NYC bathroom mirrors range from 24″×30″ for a small vanity to 48″×36″ or larger for a double vanity. We note any outlets, light fixtures, or medicine cabinets that affect sizing.

The homeowner chooses between a few options:

• Flat polished mirror — clean edges, no frame, the most popular choice for modern NYC bathrooms
• Beveled edge mirror — a subtle angled border around the glass for a more traditional look
• Custom shape — arched, round, or other non-rectangular cuts (these cost more)

Removal of the Old Mirror

If the old mirror is glued to the wall (very common), removal requires careful prying to avoid damaging the drywall behind it. We use wire saws and putty knives to separate the adhesive. In most cases, the wall needs minor patching and touch-up after removal — we let the homeowner know upfront if this is the case.

Installation

The new mirror is mounted using one of two methods depending on the situation:

• J-channel (bottom rail) + clips — a metal channel along the bottom supports the weight, with small clips at the top. The most secure and common method.
• Mirror adhesive (mastic) — applied directly to the wall for a completely flush, clip-free look. Works best on flat, painted walls.

Installation itself takes about 1–2 hours including setup and cleanup.

Cost Range

For a typical NYC bathroom mirror replacement:

• Small mirror (24″×30″): $200–$350 installed
• Standard mirror (36″×30″ to 48″×36″): $350–$600 installed
• Large or custom mirror (60″+ wide): $500–$800+ installed

These ranges include measurement, fabrication, old mirror removal (if needed), and installation. Beveled edges and custom shapes add to the cost.

Key Takeaways

• Mirror replacement is one of the fastest and most affordable bathroom upgrades
• Removing old glued mirrors can reveal wall damage — factor in potential patching
• Custom-cut mirrors look significantly better than stock sizes from hardware stores
• Proper mounting (J-channel or professional mastic) prevents mirrors from falling — a real safety concern with heavy glass