Wall anchors let homeowners hang objects securely without wall damage.
Wall anchors are essential hardware devices that distribute weight across a larger area of the wall, preventing damage and ensuring secure mounting. They're particularly important when hanging items on drywall, which alone cannot support significant weight.
Whether you're mounting a flat-screen TV, installing floating shelves, or hanging heavy artwork, the right anchor makes all the difference between a secure installation and a disaster waiting to happen.
Different anchors serve different purposes:
Plastic Anchors: Best for lightweight items (up to 20 pounds). These ribbed plastic sleeves expand as you drive the screw in, creating friction against the drywall.
Toggle Bolts: Ideal for medium to heavy loads (up to 100+ pounds). Wings open behind the drywall, distributing weight across a large area for maximum holding power.
Metal Anchors: Self-drilling anchors for medium-weight applications (20-75 pounds). These threaded metal sleeves bite into drywall and provide reliable support.
Follow these steps for proper installation:
Drill a hole: Use the size specified on the anchor package. Too large, and the anchor won't grip; too small, and you risk cracking the drywall.
Insert anchor: Push the anchor into the hole until flush with the wall surface. For toggle bolts, compress the wings and push through the hole until they spring open behind the wall.
Tap flush: Gently tap the anchor with a hammer until it sits level with the wall. Don't over-drive it or you'll damage the drywall.
Tighten the screw: Drive the screw into the anchor, leaving enough threads exposed to mount your item. Don't overtighten, as this can strip the anchor.
Select anchors rated for object weight. Always check the weight rating on the anchor package and choose one that exceeds your item's weight by at least 25%. This safety margin accounts for dynamic loads (pulling, bumping) that exceed the static weight.
Properly installed wall anchors prevent damage and ensure safety when hanging heavy objects. Taking a few extra minutes to use the right anchor and install it correctly protects your walls and keeps your belongings securely mounted for years to come.
We uncover them before you buy.