How to Hang a Wall Clock

An unevenly hung clock may not work properly.

Hanging a wall clock not only enables you to tell the time, but it also makes a decorative statement in a room. Before you can enjoy a lifetime of knowing what time it is, though, you need to follow the proper protocol to hanging a wall clock. If you hang a clock improperly, it may not work the way it should -- it could even fall off the wall, breaking or causing personal injury. Avoid this cruel fate by taking the right steps to hanging your clock.

1. Find a wall stud from which to hang your clock. Rap your knuckles against the wall -- a hollow sound indicates that you need to move to the right or left, while a higher, muffled sound indicates a stud.

2. Draw a spot with a pencil where you are going to drill, over the stud.

3. Drill a pilot hole into the spot you marked with an electric drill and a drill bit slightly narrower than the screw.

4. Place a screw into the pilot hole and tighten it by turning it clockwise with a screwdriver a screwdriver drill bit. Depending on the thickness of your wall and the weight of the clock, a screw 1 to 3 inches long should suffice. The longer the screw, the more support you give the clock. The screw should stick out 1/4-inch or so.

5. Slip the clock's hanging hole over the head of the screw. If need be, straighten the clock out so that it hangs evenly.