How to Install a Toggle Bolt

Toggle bolts are for use in block, sheetrock and other hollow base walls. They come in different sizes and have a threaded bolt with a spring-loaded toggle. If you are trying to hang a shelf or large picture and don't have a stud to anchor it to, install a toggle bolt by following a few simple steps.

Instructions

1. Decide where you want to hang the brackets or object you're going to anchor and place marks on the wall where you plan to insert the toggle bolts. Make sure they're level before you begin. The holes that accommodate the toggles are larger than a nail hole and if you make a mistake you'll have to patch it.

2. Use a drill to make insertion holes large enough for the folded toggle to fit in. If you don't have a drill, hammer in a nail and then wiggle it around to make the hole larger. Remove the nail and continue to enlarge the hole with a screwdriver until the toggle will slide in.

3. Assemble the pieces by inserting the bolt through the bracket or object you are anchoring and then threading the toggle onto the end.

4. Fold the toggle completely back and slip it into the hole until you feel the wings pop open.

5. Pull back on the assembled pieces until the wings are against the inside wall. This prevents them from twirling around while you are tightening the bolt.

6. Tighten the bolt with a screwdriver until everything fits firmly against the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• Select a toggle bolt with a screw long enough to go through the object you are hanging, the wall and the length of the folded toggle.

• Make sure the wall you are using the toggle bolt in will support the weight of the object you are hanging. If the shelf is loaded down with heavy objects, the weight of it may pull the toggle bolts out of the wall.