Choose a section of wall where your item won’t be forced to compete for space with other fixtures and decorations. Not having to hunt for a stud will give you much more freedom over the finished layout of your wall. [3] X Research source
If you’re only installing a single anchor, you can simply eyeball the reference mark based on the desired height and position of the item you’ll be hanging. If you’re installing multiple anchors, use a level and tape measure or ruler to ensure that adjacent markings are properly spaced and level.
Most drywall anchors have the dimensions clearly labeled on the packaging. Simply note the width of the anchor to determine what size drill bit you need. You want your hole to be slightly smaller than the anchor. When you’re installing the anchor, you’ll need to lightly tap it into place. If you’re unable to find the dimensions of the anchors you’re using, you may need to perform a size comparison by holding them up side-by-side with several different bits.
If you don’t have an electric drill, you can also make a pilot hole using an awl or hammer and nail-set or nail. [6] X Research source As another alternative, you can use a Phillips head screwdriver to make your hole. Press the tip of the screwdriver against the wall, then twist it back and forth to create your hole. Not every type of wall anchor requires a pre-drilled pilot hole, but it’s a helpful first step and can end up saving you time that you might otherwise spend struggling to get an anchor through stubborn drywall by hand.
Take your time drilling to make sure the job gets done right. Your mounted item might not hang correctly if one or more of the holes have been drilled at odd angles. When hanging very heavy items, such as TVs, make sure you screw into at least one wall stud. Use a stud finder to locate the stud.
If your expansion anchor starts to turn when you’re inserting your screw, you can cut another anchor lengthwise and slide one half of it into the space between the anchor and the side of the hole. As another alternative, you can pull out the anchor and use the next size up. Expansion anchors are the cheapest, most basic type of drywall anchor. They’re best used for hanging lightweight items, such as small framed paintings, paper towel racks, and anything under about 10 lbs. [9] X Research source It’s important to keep in mind that expansion anchors are only as strong as the wall they’re installed in. [10] X Expert Source Jeff HuynhProfessional Handyman Expert Interview. 30 April 2019. Since drywall is a soft material, there’s a greater chance of the anchor coming loose and pulling free over time.
Self-drilling anchors offer slightly more support than basic expansion anchors. This makes them ideal for hanging items that weigh 10-25 lbs, like shadow boxes and curtain rods with heavy drapes. [12] X Research source
Hollow wall anchors (also known as “molly bolts”) come in various lengths. Make sure you know the thickness of your wall so you can purchase a set of anchors in the correct size. [14] X Research source When mounting objects that fall in the 25-50 lbs range, like cabinets, floating shelves, and full-length mirrors, hollow wall anchors will usually be your best bet.
To ensure that the toggle bolt fits properly, you’ll need to drill a pilot hole with the same diameter as the wings when fully collapsed. [16] X Research source As you screw in your toggle, listen for its wings to pop open. If you don’t hear them open, you may need to push in or turn the toggle to help them open.
