How to Choose the Best Dance Studio Mirrors -The Ultimate Guide

Dancing is arguably one of the most adorable forms of art. This art requires ultimate perfection and to achieve this, dance studio mirrors will come in handy. These mirrors play a crucial role in enhancing the learning process. Workout mirrors are beneficial to both instructors and learners. For learners, they can copy what the instructor is doing. In addition, the learner can see what movements they ought to improve on. On the other hand, the mirrors help instructors to monitor the movement of the learners. When acquiring dance studio mirrors, it is important to consider quality. And although quality mirrors are expensive, they are worth the investment. Acquiring cheap mirrors will prove to be an expensive affair as they will cause an unpleasant experience for the dancers which will translate to dwindling business. 

Installing workout mirrors presents some unique challenges. For instance, if you have rented a studio space, you will need to discuss the installation with the owner of the building. In most cases, rented spaces will require installations that are less permanent. However, if you own the building, a permanent option is the best choice.

Types of Studio Mirrors

Mirrors can mean make or break for your studio. For this reason, you ought to make the right investment decision that will perfectly suit your studio space. To make the right decision, you should conduct research to determine the type of mirror that will serve you best. That said, below is an overview of the different types of dance studio mirrors.

• Rolling or stationary mirror

The complexity of your dance moves will have a huge influence on the type of mirror you install. For complex moves, installation of mirrors at the back and at the front of the dancing space will help view your posture from all angles to enhance the learning process. If you opt for stationary mirrors, you will have to install them on the opposite wall of the studio. On the other hand, rolling mirrors require no installation as they can easily be moved from one point to another. If you are looking for a cheaper option, rolling studio mirrors will make a perfect choice as they require no installation investment. In addition, rolling mirrors allow you to relocate the dance studio to another room.

• Glass or non-glass mirror

The type of material used in manufacturing your studio mirrors goes a long way in determining the amount of safety you enjoy in your studio. If you intend to install glass mirrors, you should consider adding an extra level of security. This calls for you to install a safety component that will ensure the mirror does not fall from the wall. More to that, the safety component ensures that the mirror does not fall even if it is shattered. Glass mirrors are ideal for studios that have less vigorous dance routines and those that are frequented by adults. Apart from glass mirrors, you can use glassless mirrors. The mirrors are made of mylar thus the surface cannot be shattered no matter how much your students try. This type of mirror is perfect for studios that are frequented by children. If your dance studio is for personal use, then you can use any material that you wish.

• Framed or frameless mirrors

Your tastes and preferences will play a huge role in influencing the type of mirror you want. If you are looking to add a touch of elegance to your studio, then you should consider frameless mirrors. On the other hand, if you are looking to secure your mirror, consider a framed mirror. All in all, both types of mirrors enhance the outlook of your studio and it all comes down to your preference.

Factors to Consider When Acquiring Dance Studio Mirrors

Now that you know the different types of mirrors, do you know what it takes to find the perfect mirror for your dance studio? Well, there are various factors that you ought to consider if you stand a chance of finding a studio mirror that will serve you diligently. Here is a list of factors to consider before you embark on procuring a workout mirror.

• Quality of the mirror

Quality is arguably the greatest factor to consider as it will determine whether you will get value for your money or not. The quality of the mirror will largely be influenced by the material used to manufacture the mirror. When choosing a mirror, it is important that you bear in mind the environmental conditions within your studio space. The ideal studio mirror is one that contains low amounts of lead and copper. If your studio setting experiences humid conditions, be sure to acquire a mirror with low copper content. This will ensure the mirror does not become clouded. In addition, low amounts of lead will ensure that you enjoy dancing in a sound environment.

• Thickness of the mirror

The thickness of the mirror will determine the quality of the reflections you get. Thick mirrors are bound to provide quality images. Moreover, the thicker the mirror, the better the quality and the more expensive it is. If you are a professional dancer/coach, then you should settle for mirrors with a minimum thickness of 0.25 inches. If anything, thick mirrors are bound to withstand harsh conditions compared to thin mirrors.

• Back coating

The coating at the back of your mirror is a key player in determining the image quality. In most mirrors, silver nitrate is used as the mirror back coating. When purchasing a dance studio mirror, ensure that the back coating is thick in order to improve its brightness and brilliance. 

• Size of the mirror

You certainly do not want to waste money buying mirrors that you will not use. Do you? Before you acquire a workout mirror, it is important that you have the measurements of your studio. Furthermore, make a decision whether you want to install one huge mirror or use two mirrors. Once you have made your decision, then you can embark on procuring a mirror that will perfectly suit your preferences.

• Cost of the mirror

There is a myriad of mirror brands available in the market. Each brand has its own unique set of qualities. When choosing a product of some brand, it is important to look at the brand’s reputation. The reputation of the brand will act as a guide to help you make a solid decision. It is important to understand that the reputation of the brand will also determine the cost of the mirror. If you are looking for a highly reputable brand, then you should expect to pay more and you are assured of amazing results. When making a decision on the brand to acquire, be sure to have a budget. With a budget, you can make a decision based on what you are willing to pay. However, ensure that you set aside a reasonable budget if you expect to acquire a quality mirror.

• Beveled Mirrors

When setting up your dance studio, ensure you consider the bevels. However, in case you are installing a huge mirror that will fit on the entire wall, you need not worry about bevels. But if you decide to install two mirrors to form one huge mirror, ensure that the edges of the mirrors do not have bevels as they will only cause a distortion which will affect the image.

How tall should dance studio mirrors be?

The size of your studio will determine the length of your mirror. Most manufacturers offer a wide array of sizes to choose from. Additionally, the type of activities conducted in your gym will determine the length of the mirror. For instance, if the workout involves the participants sitting or lying on the floor, it is important that the mirror reaches the floor so that they can see themselves in action. On the other hand, if the activities involve a lot of standing, then you should consider installing the mirror 16 to 22 inches above the floor to save on costs and space. 

Where to purchase workout mirrors

When it comes to purchasing dance mirrors, there is a wide array of options to choose from. You may opt to make an acquisition from your local glass merchants who will provide solutions for your studio. Alternatively, you may decide to purchase from online retailers who offer an array of options when it comes to size, quality, and brands. The best place to acquire mirrors for your dance studio is from online retailers. The fact that they offer an array of options will ensure that you find a mirror that perfectly suits your studio requirements. Always remember that the best mirrors are those that are specifically designed for workout purposes as they are designed with your needs and space in mind.

Installing dance studio mirrors

Mounting the mirror in your studio is certainly no easy task. Factors such as weight and size of the mirror determine the complexity of the installation process. If you are looking to save on installation costs, then you can mount the mirror yourself. However, there are a lot of risks involved with self-installation. Firstly, the mirror is bound to get damaged considering you do not have the appropriate equipment to get the job done. For this reason, you should consider enlisting professional help with installation. By seeking the assistance of a professional, you are assured of the safety of your mirrors. This will go a long way in enhancing the safety of the studio users. In most cases, professionals will adopt measures that safeguard the integrity of your mirror. This involves the use of metal brackets that firmly hold the mirror and adhesives that can comfortably handle the weight of the mirror. When installing the mirror, it is important to avoid drilling walls through the mirror. This will cause damage or even weaken the mirror. To avoid such damages, you should consider using a barre mounted on the floor. On the other hand, you can install the mirror directly above or below the barre after it has been installed on the wall.

Mirrors are a vital tool for enhancing your dance or workout experience. The important role played by these mirrors cannot be overlooked and for this reason, the utmost caution should be exercised when making a decision on the type of mirrors to install. On that note, if you were wondering what are some factors that help us choose the best mirror, now you know.