Tools and Materials
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What Are Drywall Anchors?
Drywall anchors support items on a wall when a stud isn't available, allowing you to put screws in drywall securely. Different types and sizes of wall anchors support different weights, and some anchors work in ceilings and in drywall or concrete.
Tips for Using Drywall Anchors
- The anchor must be suitable for the weight of your item and wall type.
- Manufacturers recommend using only 25 percent of the total rated weight capacity.
- Metal anchors tend to be stronger than plastic anchors.
- The anchor size must match the screw length.
- Overtightening the anchor screw damages the wall and anchor.
- Anchors aren’t typically reusable.
- Multiple anchors don’t necessarily increase weight capacity.
Different anchors have different capacities. Use the information in this article as a general guide only. The amount of weight an anchor can hold depends on factors like anchor type, wall material and whether the item you’re installing is flush with the wall. See our drywall anchor guide for more details on several types of hollow-wall anchors.
Expansion Anchor: A plastic expansion anchor requires a pilot hole. The anchor splits as you drive the anchor screw and grips the interior of the drywall. Some expansion anchors can support up to 25 pounds.
Self-Drilling Anchor: This plastic anchor installs with a screwdriver. Once you install it, the anchor screw splits the anchor to grip the drywall. The anchor threads create additional holding power. Some self-drilling anchors can support up to 75 pounds.
Hollow-Wall Anchor: Also known as a molly bolt, a metal hollow-wall anchor requires a pilot hole. The anchor screw extends flanges that secure against the back of the wall. Some molly bolts can support up to 95 pounds.
Toggle Bolt or Toggle Anchor: There are several variations for toggle-style anchors, but with all, the toggle inserts in a pilot hole and the screw cinches it against the back of the wall. These anchors can hold up to 150 or 265 pounds, depending on type, so they’re generally the most secure hollow-wall anchors and are best for heavy or valuable items.
See how to remove drywall anchors when you need to get rid of an anchor. Removing an anchor leaves a hole in your wall and some anchors make the hole larger when you remove them. Our instructions for patching holes in drywall show you how to make repairs, if necessary.
How to Install Drywall Anchors
Whether you need to know how to install plastic anchors in a wall or how to use a toggle bolt, installation is simple. You typically just need a drill and screwdriver, and it only takes a couple of minutes.
Installing an item in a stud behind drywall is the best option for strong support, so try to find studs first. Use anchors if studs aren't available.
Step 1: Measure and Mark the Anchor Location
Measure and mark the locations for the anchors. Depending on what you're installing, there may be a template to help you mark the anchor holes. Our how-tos on hanging pictures and hanging mirrors will give you tips for positioning items on a wall.
Step 2: Drill Pilot Holes, if Necessary
Most drywall anchors require pilot holes. However, if you’re using self-drilling anchors you can skip this step.
Check the anchor packaging to determine the bit size you need for the pilot holes. If you have a drywall anchor kit, it may include the right bit. Install the bit on the drill and place the bit tip on an anchor mark. Hold the drill perpendicular to the wall and drill through the drywall. Repeat for any other anchor locations.
Depending on your installation location, there may be plumbing, wiring or ductwork behind the wall. See What's Inside My Wall? for information on what to avoid when drilling into a wall.
Step 3: Install the Anchors
Wall anchor installation varies by the type of anchors you're using.
Expansion Anchors and Hollow-Wall Anchors
Use a hammer to carefully tap the anchor into the pilot hole until the collar of the anchor is flush with the wall surface. Don't drive the collar beneath the surface of the wall. For some types you may need to fold down the flanges to fit the anchor into the hole.
Toggle Bolts and Toggle Anchors
For a spring-loaded toggle bolt, remove the toggle assembly from the screw and insert the screw through the mounting hole of the item you're installing. Spin the toggle back onto the screw, making sure it folds toward the screw head and remains secure on the threads. If the toggle is at the screw tip, it may fall behind the wall. Insert the toggle portion of the anchor into the pilot hole and behind the wallboard.
For a strap-type toggle anchor, insert the toggle through the pilot hole. Pull the straps toward you to set the toggle against the back of the wall and then slide the anchor collar along the straps until it rests against the wall. Snap off and discard the straps.
Repeat the steps for other anchors, if necessary.
Self-Drilling Anchors
Insert a screwdriver into the anchor and press the anchor point against the wall. Keep the screwdriver level and maintain steady pressure as you drive the anchor into the wall.
Step 4: Install the Item You're Hanging
Securing an item to the wall is similar for most anchor types but is a bit different if you're using a spring-loaded toggle bolt. With all types, avoid overtightening the anchor screw.
Expansion, Hollow-Wall, Self-Drilling and Strap-Style Toggle Anchors
Insert the screw through a mounting hole on the item you're installing and drive it into the anchor. The screw will secure the anchor to the wallboard.
Screw-Type Toggle Bolts
Drive the screw, pulling back on it just enough to engage the toggle against the back of the wall and prevent it from spinning. Drive the screw until the toggle is tight against the back of the wall.
Repeat the process for other anchors, if necessary.
Using Wall Anchors
Choose a drywall anchor that can support the weight of the item you’re installing. Safe weight capacity is usually 25 percent of the full capacity. Installing a drywall anchor is easy. Self-drilling anchors install with a screwdriver. With other types, start by drilling a pilot hole and inserting the anchor in the hole. With the anchor in place, drive an anchor screw through the item you’re installing and into the anchor, allowing the anchor to secure to the wall. Don’t overtighten.
Shop Lowes.com for light-duty, medium-duty and heavy-duty drywall anchors, and find one with a capacity for the weight of the item you’re installing. At your local Lowe’s, talk to a Red Vest associate about your project. They can help you find anchors for your walls with the weight capacities you need for pictures, mirrors, shelves and more.