Mount mirrors, shelving, and framed art with our guide to drywall anchors.
Drywall anchors are designed specifically for hanging objects,like shelvingor light fixtures, from drywall ceilings or walls.
Nails are too smooth to grip drywall, leading toheavy objectsfalling off walls.
Credit: Boris Ipatov / Getty Images
To avoid damaging drywall or the objects you’re trying to hang, invest in drywall anchors.
you could also find self-drilling anchors that don’t require a pre-drilled hole.
Types of Drywall Anchors
Before usingdrywall anchors, it’s important to understand the different varieties.
There are four common types: expansion, self-drilling, hollow-wall, and toggle bolt drywall anchors.
Each jot down of drywall anchor works in a specific way to meet your wall-hanging needs.
Expansion Drywall Anchors
Expansion drywall anchorsare the most common product used for DIY projects.
Expansion anchors need to be installed in a pilot hole before the user drives a screw into the anchor.
However, as indicated by the name, self-drilling anchors do not require a pilot hole.
This extends the flanges on the outside of the anchor and secures it against the back of the drywall.
These anchors require a pilot hole for installation.
When hanging anything over a fireplace, verify the heat generated by the fire won’t damage it.
This is especially important for TVs.
Squeeze the trigger to start the drill, then gradually drive the drill bit through the wall.
Expansion anchors and hollow-wall anchors need to be aligned with the pilot hole.
Slide the anchor collar along the strap until it sits securely in the pilot hole.
Snap off and throw away the plastic strap.
Tighten the screw to secure the toggle to the drywall and to secure the object to the drywall anchor.
Use anelectric screwdriver, drill/driver, or an impact driver to drive the screw into the drywall anchor.
Repeat this process with all remaining screws to secure the object to the wall.
Keep in mind that over-tightening the screws can damage the wall or damage the drywall anchors.
You might also be able to find this information on the manufacturer’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Different anchors have different weight limits.
You may not need drywall anchors if there’s a stud where you want to hang something.
Never use them in the ceiling unless they’re specifically made for that purpose.
Avoid areas near outlets and light switches.
Metal drywall anchors are generally stronger than plastic ones, but are usually more expensive.
