Frequently Asked Questions
Do drywall anchors need a stud?
It is preferable to use screws with drywall anchors, in comparison to studs.
Where are wall anchors used?
Wall anchors can be used in concrete, drywall, metal, brick or wood.
Can I glue in a drywall anchor?
Yes, Gorilla glue is used in the anchor to fix a hole that is too big for a screw.
How to install drywall anchors?
- Measure and mark the location of the anchors.
- If you're using anchors other than self-drilling anchors, pilot holes will be required.
- Check the anchor packaging to determine the bit size needed to drill the pilot hole. Drill the pilot hole through the drywall.
- For expansion & hollow-wall anchors, use a hammer to carefully tap the anchor into the hole until the collar of the anchor is flush with the wall. Don't drive the collar beneath the surface of the wall.
- For strap-type toggle anchors, insert the toggle through the pilot hole. Pull the straps toward you to set the toggle against the back of the wall and slide the anchor collar along the straps & against the wall surface. When the collar is against the wall and the toggle is against the back of the wall, snap off and discard the plastic straps.
- For screw-type toggle bolts, remove the spring-loaded toggle from the screw and insert the screw through the mounting hole of the item being installed. Spin the toggle back onto the screw, making sure it's oriented to fold down toward the screw head. It should also be secure on the screw. If it's 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.
What instructions should be followed for removing drywall anchors?
- Remove the screw and choose a drill bit that is about two sizes larger than the diameter of the anchor's metal collar hole.
- The bit's cutting edges should only make contact with the collar edges surrounding the screw hole and not dangle within the hole.
- Use the hole in the anchor to align the bit in your drill before starting to drill. The bit will probably force the anchor out of the drywall as soon as the collar frees itself from the anchor. Let it land in the wall cavity.
- The drywall is held in place by a metal collar on the outside. From the inside, a set of prongs expand and press on the drywall.
What is the difference between an expansion anchor and a wedge anchor?
Unlike expansion anchors, wedge anchors can only be used in solid concrete and not in other masonry materials such as brick or hollow blocks.
Are expansion anchors post-installed?
Expansion anchors are post-installed anchors that are inserted into a drilled hole in masonry materials or hardened concrete. Loads are transferred to the base material by friction, bearings or both.