In 6 simple steps, you can mount heavy items using a drywall anchor for your DIY home improvement projects. We’ve simplified the process to help you use a drywall anchor with a few basic tools.
5 Steps to Insert a Drywall Anchor
As a DIYer, using drywall anchors to mount curtain rods, picture frames, and other wall decor is a great way to add personality to your home.
When I moved into my home, I had to experiment with different techniques to use a drywall anchor. Since then, I’ve added beautiful fixtures to my walls including artwork, mirrors, and picture frames.
Read More: How Do Drywall Anchors Work?
Most homeowners will have the basic tools needed to use a drywall anchor and can do it in 6 steps:
- Select the right drywall anchor
- Drill the pilot hole
- Insert the drywall anchor
- Secure the screw in place
- Mount the heavy item
| Tools Needed | Recommended For |
| • Pencil • Tape measure or ruler • Drill • Screwdriver • Hammer (optional) • Screw | • Ribbed plastic drywall anchor • Plastic expansion anchor |
Step 1: Select the Right Drywall Anchor
Each type of drywall anchor has a different weight limit. Ribbed plastic drywall anchors and plastic expansion anchors are used for hanging light items.
It is important to double-check the anchor’s weight limit on its packaging before mounting the wall decor or storage unit. Additionally, some drywall anchors can be installed into masonry, such as concrete and brick, plaster walls, and other wall surfaces.
Learn more about the unique features of the different types of drywall anchors in our quick guide.
Step 2: Drill the Pilot Hole
Pre-drilling a pilot hole serves as a guide to determine where you’ll insert the drywall anchor. The diameter of the pilot hole you’ll be boring into the wall should be smaller than the diameter of the plastic drywall anchor. Typically, the anchor’s packaging indicates the size of drill bit you need to use.
Identifying the placement of the pilot hole can also depend on the heavy item you’d like to mount on the wall. You can use a tape measure or ruler to determine the exact placement of the pilot hole and use a pencil to mark its location. This will be very helpful if you’re mounting heavy items such as curtain rods that need more pilot holes and anchors.
Precision is key in this step. You can measure the length of the screw you’ll use and place masking tape on the drill bit as a visual guide to avoid drilling too deeply into the drywall. Be sure to avoid using brute force throughout the process to avoid damaging the anchor and the drywall.
Tip: Put your free hand under the pilot hole while drilling to catch the debris that falls off and minimize what you’ll have to sweep off the floor later. Another option is to tape a small garbage bag to the wall under the pilot hole.
Step 3: Insert the Drywall Anchor
Once you’ve created the pilot hole, insert the plastic drywall anchor into the drywall. Secure it in place by lightly tapping the anchor with a screwdriver’s handle or a hammer. The head of the anchor should be flush with the drywall’s surface.
Read More: How to Remove Drywall Anchors
Step 4: Secure the Screw in Place
Using a screw strengthens the connection of the anchor to the wall. Plastic drywall anchors are commonly sold with the screws you’ll need to use them.
With the same screwdriver, slowly drive the screw clockwise into the drywall anchor. Another option is to attach the screw to the drill bit and slowly insert it into the anchor. Afterward, lightly tap the screw in place using the screwdriver’s handle or hammer, just like in Step 4.
Be careful not to over-tighten the screw so you can still have room to mount the heavy item.
Step 5: Mount the Heavy Item
The final step is to mount the heavy item onto the drywall anchor. Give the item a gentle tug to check if the anchor supports its weight and won’t slip out of the drywall.
Expert Tips
Handyman Colin Young, a mechanical engineer in Boulder, Colorado, suggests using a drywall anchor to mount anything heavier than a picture frame. He also recommends checking for wall studs before using a drywall anchor because these will not work if there are studs.
FAQ About Drywall Anchors
Why is my drywall anchor spinning?
A spinning drywall anchor is commonly caused by a pilot hole that is too large for the anchor. A larger hole won’t be able to firmly grip the screw and keep it in place.
When should you not use a drywall anchor?
It is advisable not to use a drywall anchor if your wall has studs since drywall anchors will not work. Instead, you must use a stud finder to locate the wall studs.
Note: Home Gnome may get a referral fee for matching you with pros in your area.
Main Image Credit: mahalai / Adobe Stock / License
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