Drywall fixings are extremely handy as they allow us to hang items around the house without a hassle. But with so many different types available, choosing the right fixing is greatly determined by what you want to hang.
Aside from the fact that they come in varying sizes and designs, they also have different load capacities. Some are designed to support items that weigh over 300 pounds. Others are designed to hold items that weigh only 15 pounds. So again, it all depends on the weight of the item you want to hang.
To know what fixing is right for what application, here are some different types of drywall fixings and their uses.
Toggle Bolts
A toggle bolt or butterfly anchor is a sturdy, tough fastener that is used for hanging heavy objects. It has wings that open up once the bolt is driven through drywall to keep it secured.
Toggle bolts have varying weight capacities. You can get some that can support up to 300 pounds. But the least amount of weight a heavy-duty toggle bolt should be able to support is about 100 pounds.
Steel Hollow Wall Anchors
Steel hollow wall anchors also referred to as molly bolts, are fasteners that use a machine screw to stay secured to the drywall. They come in varying lengths and diameters and support varying weight capacities.
Unlike toggle bolts, these are light-duty fasteners. They are not designed to support heavy objects but light objects like TV mounts and shelves. You might need to use multiple steel hollow wall anchors to hang heavier objects or go with toggle bolts.
The most weight these anchors can support is about 100 pounds. That means if you are to use them to a hang coat hook or towel bar, it should weigh less than 100 pounds since you have to account for the weight of the coat or towel.
Strap Toggles
Strap toggles are structurally similar to toggle bolts. They are sturdy and much stronger than the different types of drywall fixings you may find at a store.
Although different strap toggles have varying load capacities, some can support over 300 pounds. This could be the reason they are popular with homeowners. They are also easy to install and affordable.
Self-Drilling Anchors
Self-drilling anchors resemble small screws. They are threaded, which allows them to stay in place once installed.
They are easy to install. You don’t need to drill a hole like with other anchors to install them on drywall. However, they are not designed to support heavy objects.
Most self-drilling anchors can support only up to 50 pounds, which makes them ideal for hanging small shelves and other lightweight items.
Plastic Expansion Anchors
Plastic expansion anchors are quite popular because they are extremely affordable, and one pack comes with many pieces, including screws.
They are quick and easy to install. You don’t need many tools for the installation, and neither do you need an expert to do it for you.
They are ideal for hanging small, lightweight items that weigh less than 15 pounds.
