Effectively hang heavy items such as TVs, mirrors, and paintings on drywall using plasterboard fixings. Unlike traditional methods that may not provide the necessary stability, these fixings offer exceptional strength and dependability. By anchoring securely to the back of the drywall, they evenly distribute weight and reduce the risk of damage.
Plasterboard fixings create a reliable anchor point for anything from a sizable mirror to an oversized painting. Once you grasp the basics of hanging on drywall, you can enhance your space with artwork or entertainment fixtures. For tips on adjusting your layout, check out our guide on drywall fixing.
What is the Weight of the Object?
Start by determining the weight of the item you plan to hang. Each plasterboard fixing has a specific maximum load capacity, so it’s crucial to select a hollow wall anchor or plasterboard fixing that can adequately support this weight. For lightweight items like mirrors, self-drilling plasterboard fixings may suffice, but for heavier objects such as TVs, a hollow wall anchor is preferable. If you’re installing a shelf, remember to consider the total weight of the shelf when loaded. Each hollow wall anchor you use should be able to manage the total weight; for instance, if your item weighs 20 kg, you need anchors capable of supporting that weight individually—two anchors rated for 10 kg each or four rated for 5 kg each would not be adequate. Once you know the total weight, check the packaging for suitable plasterboard fixings. Additionally, if your item exceeds 15 kg, assess the wall’s load-bearing capacity as well; refer to our guide on hanging heavier objects for more information.
How Thick is the Wall?
After establishing the weight, the next step is to measure the thickness of the wall. This ensures that the hollow wall anchor can properly expand within the wallboard cavity. While hollow wall anchors work well for most plasterboards, wall thickness variations—such as double plasterboard—might require specific anchor sizes. Note that plasterboards come in different thicknesses, typically ranging from 3 to 13 mm, and walls could be constructed with single (13 mm), double (26 mm), or even triple plasterboard (39 mm). Knowing your wall’s thickness will guide you in selecting the appropriate hollow wall anchor. For measuring assistance, consult our guide on wall thickness measurement.
How Thick is the Object Being Installed?
Finally, measure the thickness of the item you intend to mount on the wall. This information is essential for selecting a hollow wall anchor with a screw length that accommodates both the object and the anchor itself. Once you’ve identified the correct plasterboard fixing, you’re ready to proceed. For guidance on using plasterboard fixings, check out our instructional guide.
Plasterboard Fixings, Hollow Wall Anchors, Cavity Wall Fixings
Plasterboard fixings, hollow wall anchors, and cavity wall fixings are all types of wall fixings that can be used in plasterboard walls:
- Plasterboard fixings
These can include plastic or metal screws for lighter objects, plastic anchors and spring toggles for medium loads, and metal spring toggles for heavier items.
- Hollow wall anchors
Also known as metal cavity fixings, these are ideal for fixing things to plasterboard walls that require a strong brace, such as lights, towel or curtain rails. They work by expanding arms that swing open and press into the reverse side of the board, providing a strong anchor point.
- Spring toggles
A traditional form of wall fixing that consists of a metal bar and a spring-loaded wings mechanism. When inserted into a hole in the plasterboard, the wings open on the other side to provide a secure anchor point. Hollow wall anchors have evolved from this concept, offering enhanced security and ease of use.
Strongest Plasterboard Fixings
The strongest plasterboard fixing on the market today is Geefix holding up to 120kg. They have been tested many times and always come out top. A popular YouTube video titled “The Strongest Plasterboard Fixing Ever!”, by Charlie White, known as @CharlieDIYte, thoroughly tested Geefix and demonstrated their effectiveness by hanging heavy objects without compromising the integrity of the plasterboard. With thousands of views, the video showcases how Geefix excels in applications where traditional anchors may fail, making it an ideal choice for anything from large mirrors to shelves. For anyone looking to secure heavy items, Geefix offers a reliable solution that has been put to the test and endorsed by the DIY community.