- Estimated eye height (auto):
EyeHeight ≈ 0.93 × UserHeight(clamped to practical limits). - Baseline center:
- Functional / task viewing:
Center ≈ EyeHeight - Decorative:
Center ≈ 60 in(gallery-style centerline) - Full-length: center is raised to help cover the tallest viewer.
- Functional / task viewing:
- Edges from center:
Bottom = Center − (MirrorHeight ÷ 2)andTop = Center + (MirrorHeight ÷ 2) - Clearance rule: if mounted above a bench/sink/table, enforce
Bottom ≥ FeatureHeight + Gap. - Wet-zone setback: for outdoor walls and sink/potting areas, add
Center += SplashSetback.
- Choose your mirror type and where it will hang in your garden space.
- Enter mirror height and width, then set the primary user height.
- Keep auto eye height, or enter a custom eye height if needed.
- If the mirror sits above a bench, sink, or potting table, fill in that height and your desired gap.
- Press Calculate to get center, bottom, and top marks to transfer onto the wall.
- Use CSV or PDF to keep a record for repeat installs.
Using mirrors to boost light in garden spaces
In greenhouses, patios, and shaded courtyards, a well-placed mirror works like a passive “light redirector”. Reflecting morning or late‑day sun into darker zones can improve uniformity, reduce leggy growth, and brighten work areas. In winter, even a 5–10% brightness lift can be noticeable near propagation trays. This calculator focuses on safe, repeatable mounting marks so the reflective surface sits where people actually use it.
Height targets that match typical tasks
For potting benches and sink stations, the most useful view is at eye level while standing. A practical reference is an eye height near 93% of user height. For a 170 cm gardener, that’s about 158 cm. When several people share the space, mount the mirror center around the average eye height and rely on mirror height to cover variation.
Clearances over benches, tables, and planters
Outdoor work zones often have clutter: trays, hose reels, soil bins, and tall planters. A reliable rule is to keep the mirror’s bottom edge at least 10–20 cm above the highest nearby feature. For splash‑prone areas (sink, misting line), adding a small setback to the center height helps keep the primary viewing area clean.
Choosing mirror height for coverage
Coverage is controlled by mirror height more than precision mounting. A 60–75 cm tall mirror typically serves quick checks and tool stations. For “full‑length” checks before heading outdoors, 150–170 cm offers comfortable coverage for most adults. The calculator outputs bottom and top edges so you can confirm the mirror won’t collide with shelves or vents.
Installation notes for humid or exterior walls
Garden installations see moisture, vibration, and temperature swings. Prefer sealed-back mirrors, corrosion‑resistant hardware, and anchors rated for the wall material. If sunlight can concentrate, angle the mirror away from dry plant matter and avoid aiming reflections at glazing seals. After mounting, recheck level and mark reference points so future replacements match the same height.
1) What mounting height works best for a potting bench area?
Use a center near standing eye height, then ensure the bottom edge clears the bench by 10–20 cm to avoid bumps and splash marks.
2) Should I prioritize “60 inches on center” or eye height?
Use eye height for functional viewing in work zones. Use the 60‑inch centerline for decorative placement where appearance matters more than task visibility.
3) How do I handle multiple user heights?
Mount the center at the average eye height and choose a taller mirror. A larger height increases usable coverage without forcing an awkward mounting position.
4) Does mirror width affect mounting height?
Width mainly affects side-to-side coverage. Height determines top and bottom edges, which is why this calculator emphasizes mirror height for safe clearances.
5) Can mirrors harm plants by focusing sunlight?
It’s possible if reflections concentrate on a small spot. Avoid extreme angles, keep distance from dry foliage, and test reflections at midday before final tightening.
6) What’s the quickest way to transfer the results to the wall?
Mark the center height first, draw a light level line, then measure half the mirror height up and down to mark the top and bottom edges accurately.
| Scenario | Mirror (H×W) | User height | Mounted above | Suggested center | Bottom / Top |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenhouse grooming mirror | 30×20 in | 66 in | None | ~61.4 in | ~46.4 / 76.4 in |
| Potting-shed mirror above table | 28×18 in | 64 in | Potting table (36 in) | ~62.0 in | ≥42.0 / ~76.0 in |
| Outdoor accent for light bounce | 24×24 in | — | Raised planter (30 in) | ~62.0 in | ≥36.0 / ~74.0 in |