Hanging guitars on walls is an increasingly popular way to display the instruments while keeping them accessible. However, some guitarists worry that gravity’s pull on the neck could damage their prized possessions.
And some raise the question: Is it safe to hang a guitar on the wall? Yes, hanging a guitar by the neck or headstock is perfectly safe if mounted properly.
The guitar neck can endure the downward force of the instrument’s weight. In most cases, that would be around 10 lbs, and that is within the wood’s elastic limit. As long as sunlight, humidity, and temperature fluctuations are controlled, hanging should not damage the guitar.
If you’re also planning to mount a guitar on the wall, then you came to the right place to know everything about how to mount your guitar safely and easily.
Key Takeaways
- Hanging a guitar by the neck is generally safe if done properly, as the wood can endure the instrument’s weight. The neck experiences comparable tension from the strings.
- To prevent damage, avoid direct sunlight and humidity fluctuations. Ideal conditions are 45-55% humidity at consistent temperatures.
- For horizontal mounting, distribute weight evenly across the guitar’s body and neck. Measure precisely for a snug fit.
- It’s safest to install wall mounts into studs. Floor-to-ceiling brackets can create vertical space if drilling is prohibited.
Will Hanging a Guitar Damage It?
Beginners often fear that hanging their new or even old guitar could put so much stress around the neck area, which could cause it to fall apart. This is considering the bottom-heavy construction of guitars.
On the issue of damage to your guitar, I would want to highlight some pointers that you should also consider. Generally, hanging a guitar by the neck or headstock won’t cause damage to it.
Bear in mind that a strung guitar continuously experiences a total tension force or string compression of about 85-180 lbs or more (which fluctuates based on the number of strings, string gauge, and scale length). As the strings pull in one direction, the downward force from the bottom half of the guitar doesn’t affect it as significantly.
So, when you mount the guitar properly – which I will get into shortly – then there’s nothing to worry about. But you must remember that proper mounting is only part of it. The bigger factor lies in the placement of the instrument.
Sunlight Exposure
One of the things that you should avoid is the guitar’s exposure to sunlight. While sunlight doesn’t cause the wood to become brittle, it can cause the wood to change color over time. Thus, if you want to preserve the natural color of your guitar’s tonewoods, then look for a place that’s hidden from direct sunlight.
Also, having your guitar placed near a window can cause it to be exposed to different temperatures and weather conditions. This can cause the wood on your instrument to expand and shrink repeatedly over time.
These fluctuations could, unfortunately, cause so much stress on the wood. As a result, they would develop splitting or could become more brittle altogether. Thus, consider this before you pick a spot for your guitar wall hanger.
Humidity Levels
The second factor you have to look into is the humidity levels in the room.
The moisture content in the air also plays an important role in how the wood performs. Basic science tells us that moisture content in solid wood can cause it to expand, and this can greatly affect the quality of your guitar’s tone.
To prevent this from happening, make sure to maintain the humidity levels in your room between 45 to 55%. I suggest investing in a hygrometer to help you monitor the humidity levels.
With that said, I also suggest placing a humidifier in the room where you intend to keep your guitar. This comes in handy during the dry winter season.
Also, you should try to keep the guitar away from the direct blow of your air conditioner. The cool air from the AC can also cause moisture to be absorbed by the wood.
Key Considerations Before Hanging Your Guitar
When preparing to mount your guitar on the wall, several key factors should be evaluated:
Pick the right hanger – Choose a hanger designed specifically for musical instruments to prevent damage. Don’t cut corners on hanger quality. Invest in a reputable brand for your guitar’s safety. Use rotating hangers that accommodate different guitar shapes without abrasion.
Consider guitar type – Factor in your guitar’s specific style and body type to ensure a proper and secure fit.
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Mind sunlight, temperature, and humidity – These elements can negatively impact the wood over time, so choose a mounting location carefully. The room should have a dry, moderate temperature.
Confirm wall strength – Check that the wall and mounting method can safely support the full weight of the guitar. Only hang the guitar on a sturdy, weight-bearing wall.
Measure carefully – Consider spacing beneath the guitar for an amp and ensure you can easily reach the guitar when mounted. If small children are present, mount the guitar safely out of reach. Proper spacing measurements and keeping the guitar level during installation will help preserve its structural integrity.
Future plan – Do you have room to add another guitar to the wall later if you want to? Ensure that there is ample room for additional guitars in the future.
How to Mount a Guitar on the Wall?
Now that you know how to minimize damage to your guitar, I can proceed with the steps on how to mount a guitar safely. This is one of the common ways of securing a guitar to the wall using nails or screws.
Step 1 # Gather Required Tools
The first step is to gather all the needed materials and tools. For this purpose, you will need mounting screws, an electric screwdriver or a hammer drill, a level, a hammer, and of course, a guitar hanger of your choice.
Here I recommend the best guitar wall hanger, Hercules Auto Grip System which is a good quality hanger and can be used safely for different-shaped acoustic and electric guitars or basses.
You should also prepare a tape measure and a pencil to make sure that you get the measurements right before screwing in the wall mount.
Step 2 # Choose an Ideal Location
Once you have your materials ready, you can now choose the ideal location to mount your guitar on. In doing so, think of the pointers I have previously set out. Doing so will help you prolong your guitar’s life.
Also, make sure that the wall you select is sturdy enough to hold the load of the guitar. In the case of drywall, it can be dangerous if you miss the wall stud entirely and put your trust solely in the strength of drywall.
You don’t want your wall to collapse – that will not only cost you a fortune on home repairs but can also ruin your precious guitar.
Step 3 # Check & Measure
With a level, check if the wall bracket will allow the guitar to hang perpendicular to your floor. This assures you that there won’t be an unnecessary strain on its neck as it is hanging from a guitar holder for wall.
You can then mark your preferred location with a pencil, with measurements precisely taken with a measuring tape.
Step 4 # Drilling the Holes
Once you’re done with the preparatory arrangements, you can now begin drilling the holes to which you will attach the guitar hanger.
In doing so, make sure that you are wearing the appropriate gear to keep your eyes and hands protected.
Also, this process will greatly depend on the type of wall hangers you’re planning to use. Different guitar holders for the wall have different installation instructions. Thus, make sure to check the manual for the particular model you bought.
Step 5 # Place & Secure the Hanger
With the foundation for the wall mount properly in place, you can now secure it in place with the screws. You can use wall anchors to tighten the screws and prevent them from pulling out of the wall. And that’s it – you can now safely hang your favorite guitar on your music room or home studio’s wall.
As a safety precaution, make sure that if you leave the guitar on the hanger, it can hold the entire load of your guitar to prevent it from falling. As much as possible, look for a wall bracket or holder that securely clasps the neck of your guitar.
How to Hang a Guitar Sideways on the Wall?
Some of you might find hanging your guitar by itself boring, prompting a search for ways to make it more interesting. Fortunately, I anticipated this and can suggest an appealing alternative for you.
One of today’s more popular guitar display styles is hanging them sideways or horizontally. In doing so, you relieve the stress from the upper neck area of your guitar. This mounting style also helps distribute the weight evenly to protect the sensitive neck area.
If you’re looking for a sturdy horizontal hanger, then I highly advise one of the best horizontal guitar wall mounts, RawRock Horizontal Guitar Hanger. This sturdy set is made of durable wooden pieces that certainly look great on any wall. I also love that it’s easy to install, so you wouldn’t have to hire a professional to do it for you.
The installation for this type of guitar hanger for wall is similar to what I have laid out above. The difference is that you have to make measurements twice – first for the bottom part of your guitar, and second for its neck.
To make sure that it holds on to your guitar as snugly as possible, you have to make sure that your measurements are accurate.
How to Hang a Guitar on the Wall without Drilling?
If you’re not a fan of creating holes in your wall, or you have drywall with no stud in the right place to mount a guitar, or if you live in a rented home with a strict no-drilling policy, then I will also clarify you how to hang your guitars on the wall without drilling.
I do not recommend getting any guitar wall hangers or wall mounts that only rely on adhesive because that is not likely to carry the weight of your guitar. Instead, I would suggest investing in ceiling and floor brackets that you can install inside your home.
A good example and the best option for that is the Labrico Brackets. These brackets support floor-to-ceiling posts without the use of tools. This allows you to create additional vertical space within your home where you can safely install your guitar hanger.
Additionally, these brackets are known for withstanding weights of up to 44 pounds or 20 kilograms. And this assures you that it can carry a full load of your guitar.
Advantages of Hanging Guitar on Your Wall
Before ending this article, we’d like to remind you of the following advantages of hanging up the guitar on a solid wall:
1. It Reminds You to Play
If you can see your guitar regularly, you will always be reminded to practice and play it. This is a great way to keep you motivated while also encouraging you to improve your music skills through playing, practicing, and completing guitar lessons.
2. It Offers Easy Access to Your Guitar
Another advantage is that it gives you easy access to your guitar without the need to remove it from your gig bag or case. Let’s face it – inspiration hits you at the most inconvenient of times.
You may already be lying in bed when you have the sudden urge to play a tune that just seems to pop inside your head. In these instances, it would be best to have your guitar placed somewhere that you can easily reach.
In contrast, it could get troublesome to have to carefully take your guitar out of its case just to play it for a while. Some of us simply do not have the patience for it.
3. It Breathes Life into the Room
Wherever you plan on mounting your guitar, there’s no doubt that it instantly breathes life into the room. It instantly becomes an interesting centerpiece that can serve as a conversation starter.
4. It Reduces the Risk of Your Guitar Getting Knocked Over
Compared to a guitar stand, having your guitar hanging from a guitar holder greatly reduces the risk of having your kids, pets, and guests accidentally knocking them over.
This also reduces the chances of getting scratched all over your guitar since it will be located in an area that does not receive a lot of foot traffic.
An Alternative to Guitar Wall Hangers
Consider Guitar Display Cases or Cabinets as an alternative to wall hangers. These enclosed cases provide a protective showcase for your guitar, shielding it from dust and potential damage.
Wall mounted guitar racks or display cabinets come in various styles and materials, offering a stylish solution to exhibit your instrument while keeping it safe. Ideal for collectors or those wanting a more sophisticated presentation, these alternatives blend functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Final Words
Hanging your guitar is not a problem if you do it properly, you see! If you desire to store your new guitar, put it in the hard case! If you want to play it frequently, you can tuck up it on your wall after examining the room’s temperature and humidity level.
I hope that from the above discussion, it will be easier for you to decide whether it is worth or not hanging your musical instruments on your home or studio wall.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high to hang guitar on the wall?
The ideal height to hang your guitar depends on factors like your height, ceiling height, and accessibility. There’s no universal standard.
Hang it high enough to keep it away from kids and pets if needed, but low enough to comfortably reach and play. For display, eye level or slightly higher works well. Most importantly, use a quality hanger that secures the guitar to prevent accidental falls.
How to hang a guitar on a wall without screws?
To hang a guitar without screws, use heavy-duty adhesives or double-sided mounting tape. However, adhesive guitar wall mounts may not be as secure for heavy guitars.
Another option is ceiling brackets – these allow you to securely stand a 2×4 against the wall to create a makeshift stud. If your wall is brick, specialized brick clips can also be installed.
Just ensure the non-screw method is completely secure, or consult a professional, since safely supporting the guitar is critical.
Fabian, a Brazilian guitarist now based in Dublin, Ireland, has passionately played the electric guitar since 2003. As a luthier and product specialist, he boasts nearly two decades of collaboration with top musical instrument brands. Fabian is a sought-after expert, sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow guitar enthusiasts.
Thanks for providing great insights into hanging guitars on walls. I appreciate the detailed tips on ensuring safety and preserving the guitar. I’m curious, though, how do I know if my wall can support the weight of the guitar securely? Are there specific weight limits to consider?