Anchors For Drywall

Sheila Fuller
14 min readSep 11, 2024
Anchors-For-Drywall-1

Tired of struggling with those pesky drywall anchors that seem to come loose just when you need them most? Look no further! In this article, we've rounded up the best anchors for drywall that will stand the test of time, ensuring your wall hangings stay nice and secure. Come and discover the perfect solution to keep your drywall anchors anchored firmly in place!

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Reviews

EZ Ancor Drywall Anchor: Strong and Hassle-Free Installation

EZ Ancor Drywall Anchor: Strong and Hassle-Free Installation | Image

As a reviewer who just tried the EZ Ancor Twist-N-Lock Drywall Anchors, I must say, these anchors are a game-changer in the world of drywall installations. The ease with which I installed them is unparalleled - no pre-drilling was required! I simply used a #2 Phillips screwdriver and #6 x 1-1/4 in. screws (both included in the package) to securely fasten them into the drywall.

The highlight for me was the audible click when these anchors were firmly set. This little detail made it incredibly easy for me to know when I achieved a proper installation. These anchors are manufactured to support up to 50 lbs. when installed in 1/2 in. drywall.

However, I couldn't ignore a minor issue I faced. Sometimes, when I attempted to remove an anchor, the whole insert would come out along with it, leaving a hole in the wall that was unusable for future installations. But overall, I would say these anchors are well worth the investment, especially for people who detest the pre-drilling process.

Elfa High-Quality Drywall Anchors for Strong Secure Mounting

Elfa High-Quality Drywall Anchors for Strong Secure Mounting | Image

I recently gave these drywall anchors a try during a home renovation project, and I must say I was impressed with their sturdiness and ease of installation. As someone who's experienced with home improvement projects, I found the zinc-plated steel material to be a nice feature, providing durability and a professional touch to my project.

One thing that stood out was the color - a pristine white that blended seamlessly with my stud walls. The anchors were a perfect match for my Elfa system, ensuring that my Top Tracks and Wall Bands were securely mounted.

On the downside, I did encounter a minor issue with the screws provided. They were not long enough to grip the anchors when used with hang standards. I had to purchase longer screws to ensure a secure installation. However, this problem was easily remedied with a trip to my local hardware store.

Overall, I'd recommend these anchors for anyone looking to mount Elfa systems on their stud walls. The combination of sturdiness, simplicity, and professional appearance made this product a standout in my renovation project.

Hillman Hollow Wall Anchors for Drywall: Sturdy, Easy Installation

Hillman Hollow Wall Anchors for Drywall: Sturdy, Easy Installation | Image

These Hillman Hollow Wall Anchors are great for securing various items to hollow walls without damaging the surface. With a zinc finish and steel construction, they come in a pack of two, each with a weight capacity of up to 70 lbs.

They can be easily installed by drilling a pilot hole and sliding the anchor into the wall, followed by tightening the screw. Users praise the product for its sturdiness, ease of use, and durability. However, some reviews mention potential issues with smaller bits or the product not meeting expectations in certain situations.

Overall, these anchors are a reliable choice for fastening items to drywall walls.

E-Z Toggle-Lock 100 lbs. Drywall Anchor Philips Pan Head

E-Z Toggle-Lock 100 lbs. Drywall Anchor Philips Pan Head | Image

The Toggle-Lock 100 lbs. Philips Pan Head Heavy-Duty Self Drilling Drywall Anchors with Screws make it a breeze to secure heavy items on walls or ceilings, even without pre-drilling. These versatile anchors can hold up to 100 lbs.

in walls and 50 lbs. in ceilings, making them perfect for a variety of applications. The durable alloy steel screws are coated in zinc for added protection.

One downside is that there are no pre-drilled holes for easy installation, but overall, these anchors are a reliable choice for DIY projects.

Prime-Line Z 10532 Molly Bolt Set of 50

Prime-Line Z 10532 Molly Bolt Set of 50 | Image

I've been using the Prime-Line Z 10532 Molly Bolt Fasteners, and I must say, they've been a game-changer for me. I was frustrated with the usual screws I used for fastening objects to my hollow walls, as they would fall behind the wall, making it a major hassle to fix things.

These Molly Bolt Fasteners are made from steel components, making them sturdy and durable. The zinc plated finish on them ensures corrosion resistance, perfect for my interior space. The fasteners are designed for use with light-duty applications, like sheetrock, drywall, and plaster.

What stood out for me was their collapsible, folding action. Once inserted beyond the surface of the wall, the anchor expands, gripping the inside of the drywall. The simple installation process with just a few tools made life so much easier. All in all, these Molly Bolt Fasteners are an absolute must-have for anyone with hollow walls.

Wallclaw Anchors: Durable Drywall Hammer-in Screws

Wallclaw Anchors: Durable Drywall Hammer-in Screws | Image

These WallClaw Anchors are a versatile and user-friendly drywall anchor, designed for quick and easy installation in both 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch drywall. The anchors work perfectly for hanging pictures, towel bars, curtain rods, shelving, bulletin boards, clocks, signs, mirrors, and more.

One of the standout features of these WallClaw Anchors is their sturdy construction, which allows them to hold up to an impressive 90 and 125 lbs respectively, even in just 1/2 or 5/8-inch wallboard. The unique design of the anchor tip ensures a secure and stable hold, while its compact and lightweight build ensures minimal damage to your wall.

However, despite their ease of use and durability, some users have reported issues with the anchors breaking or bending while being hammered in. This may necessitate drilling a pilot hole to ensure a more secure installation. Additionally, some buyers have expressed concerns about the quality of materials used, as the anchors have been known to snap and cause damage to walls if not used with caution.

Overall, these WallClaw Anchors are an excellent solution for anyone looking to fasten heavy objects to their drywall, but potential buyers should be aware of the issues related to their handling and durability. With the right precautionary measures in place, these anchors can prove to be a sturdy and reliable option, saving time and effort in wall installation projects.

5pk 3/8-1/2 TB Drywall Anchors

5pk 3/8–1/2 TB Drywall Anchors | Image

When I first tried out these drywall anchors, I was impressed by how easy it was to install them. The one-person installation and fixture changes made the process quick and hassle-free. However, as I continued using them, I started to notice some issues.

Despite the sturdy construction, the anchors didn't seem to hold up as well as I had hoped, especially when it came to heavier items. Their durability left something to be desired, and I found myself wishing for stronger anchors in some situations. Overall, these drywall anchors were a mixed bag - easy to install and sturdy, but could use some improvement in terms of durability.

Quality Hillman Hollow Wall Anchors for Secure Drywall Fixing

Quality Hillman Hollow Wall Anchors for Secure Drywall Fixing | Image

When I needed to hang a heavy, framed mirror on my living room wall, I knew I needed a sturdy solution that wouldn't damage the drywall. That's when I turned to Hillman's hollow wall anchors.

The zinc-finish steel anchor was quick and easy to use. After pre-drilling a hole, I simply inserted the anchor and gently tapped it in with a hammer until the anchor teeth bit into the wall. Then, by tightening the included screw, the mirror became firmly secured, without any wobble.

One of the highlights of these anchors was their expandable sleeve, which allowed me to change and rehang the mirror without having to remove the anchor itself. This was a major improvement over the plastic anchors I had used in the past.

While the anchors were easy to install, I found that using a 3/8-bit screwdriver would have made the process even smoother. But overall, I was impressed with the product's durability and functionality.

In conclusion, Hillman's hollow wall anchors provided the sturdiness I needed to securely hang my heavy mirror without damaging the drywall. Their expandable sleeve design also made it easy to rehang items without removing the anchor. With a 4.4-star rating from 50 reviews, these anchors seem like a solid choice for those seeking a reliable solution to their hanging needs.

Sturdy Drywall Anchors for Secure Fixtures

Sturdy Drywall Anchors for Secure Fixtures | Image

As a carpenter, I frequently use toggler snaptoggle drywall anchors to secure various fixtures on my walls. The ease of installation with these 12-piece togglers is a real game changer, as most of the time I'm working alone. I've had several experiences where I was able to install them without any hassle, saving a lot of time. Made in the USA, they come included with 1/4-20 UNC-threaded bolts.

What I love most about these anchors is their sturdiness. They're rated for 265 pounds in 1/2 drywall and 1,080 pounds on concrete blocks. That's an impressive amount of weight for such a small anchor. In practice, though, I've never had an issue with any load they're designed for.

On the downside, I've noticed that the threads on these anchors can be a bit more rough in general. They work well, but they do require a bit more effort to turn in comparison to smoother-threaded versions. Despite this minor inconvenience, they still get the job done.

Overall, this anchor is a must-have in any DIYer's or professional carpenter's toolbox. It has the sturdiness, ease of installation, and craftsmanship that one can only appreciate in high-quality tools.

Twist-N-Lock 75 lb. Self-Drilling Drywall Anchor for Shallow Walls

Twist-N-Lock 75 lb. Self-Drilling Drywall Anchor for Shallow Walls | Image

Introducing the ITW E-Z Ancor 11364, a versatile and easy-to-use drywall anchor designed for effortless installation. This self-drilling anchor features a twist-and-lock mechanism for a secure and firm hold, eliminating the need for pre-drilling. The high-strength fiber-reinforced resin guarantees superior durability, while the audible "click" when the anchor is firmly set ensures peace of mind during installation.

What sets this product apart is its ability to split and grip the drywall, providing a strong hold that won't back out once installed. The flush installation against the wall ensures that your mounted items stay in place without any wobbling, and the smaller hole created by this anchor compared to its competitors makes installation, cleanup, and removal a breeze.

Designed for a maximum fixture thickness of 3/4 inch, the anchor can accommodate loads up to 75 lb. It is suitable for a wide range of applications, including smoke detectors, clocks, bathroom accessories, thermostats, plaques and awards, decorative wall hangings, picture frames, and coat racks.

While the ITW E-Z Ancor 11364 is a reliable and user-friendly drywall anchor, some users have reported occasional difficulties with installation, such as screws becoming too tight or anchors breaking during installation. However, these issues have been addressed by the manufacturer and can usually be resolved by proper pre-drilling and handling.

In summary, the ITW E-Z Ancor 11364 Twist-N-Lock 75 lb. Self-Drilling Drywall Anchor is an excellent choice for those seeking a secure and hassle-free way to mount various items on drywall. Its specific features and easy installation make it a top contender in the world of drywall anchors.

ITW Brands E-Z Self Drilling Drywall Toggle Bolt for Safe Installation

ITW Brands E-Z Self Drilling Drywall Toggle Bolt for Safe Installation | Image

I recently tried out the ITW Brands E-Z Self Drilling Drywall Toggle Bolt and overall, I was quite impressed with its performance. Despite being a Chinese product, it didn't feel cheap or flimsy at all; in fact, I found it to be quite sturdy and well-made. I particularly appreciated the fact that it's self-drilling, making installation incredibly easy and hassle-free.

However, there were a couple of aspects that could have been improved. For instance, I did notice that the instructions could be clearer, as I found myself a bit confused at first. Additionally, I think it would be great if the product had higher durability, as I feel like it might not last as long as some other toggle bolts on the market.

Overall, I think the ITW Brands E-Z Self Drilling Drywall Toggle Bolt is a pretty decent product. It's easy to use and works reliably most of the time. While there are some minor drawbacks, I still believe it's a solid choice for anyone in need of good-quality toggle bolts for hanging heavy objects.

Buyer's Guide

When searching for the perfect anchors for drywall to support your ceiling tiles, panels, or decorative accents, consider these important features, considerations, and general advice to make the best selection for your needs.

Important Features

To ensure a secure and durable installation, look for anchors with the following features:

  1. Adjustable tension settings 2. Multiple width options to accommodate various drywall thicknesses 3. Strong, corrosion-resistant materials 4. Easy installation and removal without damaging the wall surface 5. Non-slip grip to ensure a stable hold.

Installation Considerations

Think about the following factors when deciding where to install your anchors:

  1. Location of load-bearing walls or studs for added support 2. Weight capacity requirements of the item being hung 3. Height of the ceiling and accessibility for installation 4. Placement of nearby electrical outlets or wiring to avoid interference 5. Potential need for reinforcement or additional anchors if installing heavy objects.

Type of Anchor

There are several types of anchors to choose from, each with its own benefits and applications. Some common options include:

  1. Screw-in anchors for drywall 2. Toggle bolts for hollow walls 3. Adhesive-mounted anchors for lightweight loads 4. Concrete screw anchors for reinforced walls. Consider the specific requirements of your project and select the appropriate anchor type.

General Maintenance and Safety Tips

To ensure the longevity and safety of your anchors for drywall, follow these maintenance and safety guidelines:

  1. Regularly inspect for any signs of wear or damage 2. Maintain a secure installation by tightening screws periodically 3. Use proper safety equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, during installation or removal 4. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for optimal performance and durability.

FAQ

Why use an anchor for drywall?

Drywall anchors are essential when installing fixtures such as shelves, mirrors, and picture frames on drywall walls. Unlike concrete walls, drywall walls can't support heavy loads without the help of anchors. Drywall anchors provide a secure and sturdy hold by screwing into the wall studs and distributing the weight of the fixture evenly. They prevent the anchors from tearing out of the wall and the fixture from falling down, ensuring the safety and durability of your installations.

Moreover, anchors for drywall come in various sizes and materials to cater to different needs. Choosing the right anchor ensures that your fixture remains in place and becomes a part of your home's decor, providing a neat and professional look while also enhancing the structural integrity of the wall.

What are the different types of drywall anchors available?

There are numerous types of drywall anchors available in the market. Some of the most common ones include expandable anchors, toggle bolts, and molly bolts. Each type has its pros and cons, and the choice depends on factors such as the weight of the fixture, the type of wall material, and the desired level of security.

Expandable anchors are small and easy to use. To install, they are squeezed into a hollow core of the wall, and they expand when the anchor is screwed in. Toggle bolts are ideal for lightweight fixtures and have an adjustable wing nut that allows for better positioning. Molly bolts, on the other hand, are designed for heavier fixtures, and they have an adjustable collar that makes installation easy and convenient.

How much weight can a drywall anchor hold?

The weight capacity of a drywall anchor depends on the size and type of anchor being used. Generally, expandable anchors have the lowest holding capacity, while toggle bolts and molly bolts can hold significantly more weight. Expandable anchors can typically hold up to 25 pounds, while toggle bolts can hold up to 50 pounds and molly bolts up to 500 pounds or more.

It is essential to choose an anchor with a weight capacity sufficient for the fixture you intend to install. Overloading the anchor can result in it tearing out of the wall, causing damage to the wall and potentially leading to accidents. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the appropriate weight capacity and type of anchor for your specific needs.

What are the best practices for installing drywall anchors?

To ensure safe and secure installation of drywall anchors, follow these best practices: Before installing the anchor, locate a wall stud by using a stud finder. The stud will provide a solid anchor point, which will prevent the anchor from pulling out of the wall. When screwing in the anchor, make sure it is positioned perpendicular to the wall and at the right height to avoid any damage to the drywall.

Additionally, it is crucial to use the right type and size of anchor based on the weight and size of the fixture being installed. Overloading the anchor can compromise its integrity and lead to damage to the wall. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct installation, and consider the weight and size of the fixture when choosing the appropriate anchor.

How do I remove a drywall anchor?

Removing a drywall anchor is a straightforward process. First, locate the head of the anchor and carefully unscrew it from the wall using a screwdriver. Once the anchor is removed, the hole in the wall can be filled with a suitable filler, such as putty or spackle, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding wall. It is essential to choose a filler that matches the color and texture of the wall for a professional and aesthetically pleasing finish.

If the anchor is deeply embedded in the wall, it may be necessary to drill out the anchor or use a chisel to break it up before removing it. Always exercise caution when drilling or removing anchors, as drywall can be fragile and prone to damage. Consider covering the area with a protective film or taping it off to minimize the risk of damage.

Can drywall anchors be reused?

While it is possible to reuse drywall anchors, it is not recommended. Reusing anchors can compromise their integrity and reduce their holding capacity. Drywall anchors are designed for single-use applications, and their performance can deteriorate over time, resulting in a weak and unsafe installation. It is safer and more reliable to use a new anchor each time to ensure the fixture remains secure and stable.

If you find that you have used all the anchors you purchased, consider purchasing a new set of anchors designed for your specific needs. The cost of purchasing new anchors is minimal compared to the risk of a fixture falling and causing damage or injury. Always prioritize safety when installing fixtures on drywall walls.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I earn from qualifying purchases.

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