DIY Choosing Wall Anchors

Wall anchors become necessary when no solid framing exist to hold nails, screws and picture hooks. These anchors come in three basic types; sleeve, toggle and expansion. They can be used to hang shelving, artwork, mirrors and brackets on hollow and solid wall materials.

When choosing a wall anchor use one that will safely support the weight of the object to be suspended. Below is a chart for choosing and using these anchors. Load capacities are approximate. As a general rule hollow walls like drywall will hold less weight than solid walls like concrete and some plasters using the same anchor. For an installation demonstration for these anchors see the Using Wall Anchors page.

Use sleeve anchors for hanging small shelves and wall art. These anchors are used in solid and hollow wall materials including drywall, plaster, concrete and brick. The anchor is driven into a slightly undersized, pre–drilled hole. As a screw is threaded into the anchor it spreads slightly to press against the sides of the hole. These anchors are intended for light loads up to about 30lb. when used in drywall to heavy loads of about 100lb. when used in solid masonry walls.

Toggle wall anchors are used in hollow walls including drywall, plaster, paneling and cinder block. These anchors make use of a spring action to expand prongs inside a hollow wall. The prongs are then pressed tightly against the inside of the wall by driving the included screw. A pre–drilled hole large enough to insert the toggle is required. All mounting hardware must be assembled on the anchor before it is installed in the wall. This can be a major obstacle for heavy wall units requiring several anchors that must be installed simultaniously. Heavy and light duty toggles are available for mounting loads of about 40 to about 100 pounds.

Expansion anchors are available for hollow and solid wall materials. Hollow wall expansion anchors are used in drywall, plaster and paneling. These anchors are driven into a pre–drilled hole. The included screw is driven into the anchor crimping the side against the inside of the wall. Solid wall expansion anchors are intended for use in concrete, brick, marble and other stone. These anchors are driven into a pre–drilled hole the same size as the anchor. As the included screw is driven into the anchor, the sides expand and push against stone to hold the anchor in place. These anchors are used for the heaviest loads as well as for anchoring framing to concrete walls and floors.