To calculate the quantity and size of picture rail needed for a hanging project, it is important to consider several parameters. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Measure the length of the wall

• Measure the total length of the walls where you want to install the picture rails.
• If you plan to install picture rails on multiple walls, add their lengths together.

2. Consider angles and connections

• If your walls include corners or junctions , provide connecting accessories (internal or external corners).
• These elements sometimes require a small adjustment in the length of the rail.

3. Determine the desired height

• The picture rails can be fixed either:
  • Close to the ceiling (classic and aesthetic solution).
  • Half-height (option sometimes used for specific hangings, such as in exhibition galleries).

4. Calculate the number of rails

• Picture rails are often sold in standard lengths (e.g. 2 meters or 3 meters).
• Divide the total measured length by the length of a standard rail to determine the number of rails needed .
  • For example: if your wall is 5 meters long and the rails are 2 meters long, you will need 3 rails (5 ÷ 2 = 2.5, rounded to 3 rails).

5. Provide the fixing clips

• Plan for clips every 30 to 40 cm for good stability.
• Number of clips = total length of rails ÷ recommended spacing .

6. Hanging wires and hooks

• Depending on the number of works to be hung:
  • Count one thread per work or more if the work is large.
  • Wires are often sold in batches or individually (standard length between 1 and 3 meters).
  • Plan for one hook per wire , or two if the work is heavy or large.

Calculation example:

6 meter long wall with 4 works to hang:

1. Rails required :

   • Wall length = 6 m.
   • 2 m rails → 6 ÷ 2 = 3 rails.

2. Clips required :

   • Spacing = 40 cm.
   • Total length = 600 cm ÷ 40 cm = 15 clips.

3. Suspension wires :

   • One work per thread → 4 threads.
   • Provide extra threads if needed (adjustments or new works).

4. Hooks :

   • One hook per thread minimum → 4 hooks.

Additional tips :

• Add Margin : Allow for one or two extra rails for adjustments or to expand the setup in the future.
• Plan accessories : Think about end caps, corners, or connectors if your walls require junctions.
• Ask for advice : If you are purchasing picture rails from a specialist store, provide your measurements for personalised assistance.

This calculation guarantees you an optimal installation adapted to your needs! ?