How to Mount Stuff on Drywall
Drywall is composed of crushed gypsum compressed between two sheets of heavy-duty paper. Screws easily penetrate drywall and cause the gypsum to crumble. If you try to hang a heavy object, the screws will fall out immediately. Lighter objects may seem secure initially, but over time the holes will loosen and become unstable. Drywall anchors drill into the wall and provide a secure sleeve for mounting screws. They are available in different styles and sizes to aid in hanging objects of a variety of sizes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Self-drilling drywall anchors
- Toggle bolt anchors
- Electric drill
- Screwdriver bit
- Drill bits
Instructions
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1
Weigh or estimate the weight of the objects you intend to mount. Purchase self-drilling drywall anchors or toggle bolt anchors in the correct size for the project. Match the anchor diameter to that of the mounting screws you intend to use, and use anchors with a weight limit larger than the weight of the object. Weight specifications are listed on anchor packaging. Divide the weight by the number of mounting points for large objects.
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Mark the location for the mounting screw. For large objects, hold the object up and mark the wall along the top border, then measure the distance between the border of the object and the mounting location. Measure and mark the wall for the drywall anchor or anchors.
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3
Screw a hollow anchor into the wall with a Philips screwdriver until the opening is flush with the surface of the wall. If using a toggle bolt fit an electric drill with a bit large enough to accommodate the bolt when the tabs are pressed against it. Drill a pilot hole all the way through the drywall.
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Hold the mounting bracket, if using one, and the mounting screw up to the anchor. Insert the screw into the anchor and secure it into place with a screwdriver. If using a toggle bolt insert a bolt through the item to be mounted and thread the flaps onto the bolt. Press the flaps against the bolt and insert the bolt and flaps into the pilot hole. When you feel the flaps open, pull the bolt until the tabs are tight against the back of the drywall. Tighten the bolt from the front with a Philips screwdriver.
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