How to Install Plastic Anchors in a Wall for Screws
Securing items to a wall can be accomplished by a variety of wall type anchors. The most common of these types of anchors is a small plastic insert. Typically these anchors will come in a matched set, where a matching screw will fit inside the plastic anchor. Included in the set may also be a drill bit that is specific for the plastic anchor's diameter. Generally if a drill bit is not included, the manufacturer will list the drill bit size on the package labeling. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Drill bit
- Drill motor
- Plastic anchor
- Anchor screw
- Screwdriver
Instructions
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1
Identify the hole that is to be drilled by using the tape measure. Mark the hole with the pencil. You can measure from the floor and up the side of the wall for the height.
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2
Install the drill bit into the drill motor. Place the tip of the drill bit to the mark on the wall. Hold the drill motor perpendicular to the wall surface. Start the drill motor and push the bit into the wall. Do not push the drill bit too deep. Only deep enough for the plastic anchor to be fully inserted into the wall.
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3
Push the plastic anchor into the newly drilled hole. The outer ridge of the anchor should be flush with the wall's surface. Tap the top of the plastic anchor with the rear of the screwdriver handle. This will aid in setting the anchor into the wall.
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4
Start the plastic anchor screw with your fingers. Turn the screw in a clockwise direction. Finish tightening the screw with the screwdriver. Run the screw into the plastic anchor so approximately 1/8 of an inch of the screw's shaft is left exposed from the plastic anchor's exposed surface. This will leave enough room for a hanging clip or wire to fit over the screw head and remain secure.
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Tips & Warnings
Consult the manufacturers specifications for the amount of weight that the plastic anchor can support. In most cases these types of anchors will only support small amounts of weight. See Resources.
Exercise caution whenever you are drilling into a wall. Be sure of what lies behind the wall covering. Plumbing pipes and electrical wires can be damaged by drilling into them.
