Drywall Anchors

Sara Shields
11 min readApr 10, 2024
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If you’re feeling frustrated by your artwork slipping off the wall or your pictures hanging at an odd angle, it might be time to upgrade your wall hangers. In this roundup, we’ll introduce you to some of the best drywall anchors on the market, designed to give your home decor a secure and professional look while making it a breeze to hang your favorite items. Let’s dive in and discover the best drywall anchors that will revolutionize your wall art displays.

The Top 5 Best Drywall Anchors

  1. High-quality Drywall Anchors for Light to Medium Loads — Reliable and durable Hillman 41443 Wallboard Anchors with Black Screw — 10 ct are perfect for light-medium duty projects, offering easy adjustments and a sleek black finish.
  2. Everbilt Drywall Anchors for Adjustable Mount Installations — Everbilt Drywall Anchors: Versatile, durable, and securely attach hang tracks and standards to drywall when mounting to a stud is not possible!
  3. Fast and Easy Drywall Anchors for Mounting Light to Medium Duty Loads — Effortlessly mount light to medium-duty hardware with the Hillman Plastic EZ Anchor, a one-piece self-drilling anchor that requires no pre-drilling, ensuring fast and easy installation.
  4. Fast and Easy Drywall Hollow Wall Anchor with Screw Adjustments — Instant wallboard anchor, the Hillman 9413 — easy installation and perfect for light-duty projects with included nylon screws.
  5. Twist-N-Lock Drywall Anchors for Medium-Duty Applications — Get the Stud Solver Zinc Anchor Kit for secure, hassle-free drywall anchor installation, with 50 lbs. and Twist-N-Lock Anchors for light to medium-heavy duty applications.

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Reviews

High-quality Drywall Anchors for Light to Medium Loads

High-quality Drywall Anchors for Light to Medium Loads | Image

I recently tried the Hillman 41443 Wallboard Anchors with a black screw, and I have to say, they did not disappoint. These anchors are designed to be self-drilling and ideal for mounting light to medium-duty loads in hollow gypsum wallboard. They’re perfect for tasks like securing electrical fixtures or hanging phone systems.

One of the features that stood out to me was the screw adjustment mechanism. It allows you to make adjustments without loosening the screw, which is a major time-saver. Additionally, the black finish on these anchors is sleek and professional-looking, making them a great addition to any space.

However, I did encounter one issue during my use — the durability of the product. I noticed a couple of the heads snapped off as I was screwing them into the wallboard, which was a bit frustrating and took away from the overall quality perception of the product.

All in all, the Hillman 41443 Wallboard Anchors with a black screw are a useful tool for quick drywall installations, but their durability is something that could use improvement.

Everbilt Drywall Anchors for Adjustable Mount Installations

Everbilt Drywall Anchors for Adjustable Mount Installations | Image

The Everbilt Drywall Anchors were a lifesaver when I was installing my adjustable wire closet shelving system. I loved these little gems because they made mounting my shelves on the wall so simple. The 3/16 in. and 3 in. combination screws provided a secure hold, even in drywall panels.

One challenge I faced during installation was not being able to hit a stud every time. These anchors came to the rescue, allowing me to fasten the drywall or plaster installation securely. The Phillips head design made it easy to use, and the bolts were made of sturdy metal construction, giving me peace of mind knowing they wouldn’t break down easily.

However, I did notice that the kit only came with five anchors and five bolts, which meant I had to purchase more if I wanted to complete a bigger project. Overall, the Everbilt Drywall Anchors were an excellent addition to my toolkit and made my life a lot easier.

Fast and Easy Drywall Anchors for Mounting Light to Medium Duty Loads

Fast and Easy Drywall Anchors for Mounting Light to Medium Duty Loads | Image

Recently, I had the pleasure of trying the Hillman Plastic EZ Anchor 20-pack for a new DIY project at home. These anchors are the perfect solution for attaching light to medium duty items like picture frames and kitchen cabinets. What impressed me most is that no pre-drilling was required, making the installation process fast and easy. The screw included also made the process even more convenient. However, I did notice that the larger anchors tended to bend under pressure, so I had to make minor adjustments to ensure a secure hold.

Overall, the Hillman Plastic EZ Anchor is a reliable and user-friendly product for anyone in need of quick-and-easy drywall anchor installation. The zinc exterior finish and shark’s-tooth design ensure efficient and reliable positioning for a seamless installation. Despite the minor drawback with larger anchors, I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a hassle-free and dependable drywall anchor solution.

Fast and Easy Drywall Hollow Wall Anchor with Screw Adjustments

Fast and Easy Drywall Hollow Wall Anchor with Screw Adjustments | Image

I had a need for a dependable and efficient way to hang some decorations on my wallboard, and the Hillman 9413 Wallboard Anchor came to the rescue. What stood out to me was the ease of installation; no predrilling was necessary, and the Pan Head Phillips SMS screw type made of nylon held its own with minimal effort. I also appreciated the screw adjustments that did not require unscrewing the anchors.

However, I did encounter a few drawbacks in my experience. The dimensions seemed a bit off, which required a bit of trial and error in placement. Also, the anchors were not compatible with some materials, preventing me from hanging certain items. Overall, the Hillman 9413 Wallboard Anchor provided a generally smooth and straightforward experience, but with improvements in sizing and compatibility, it could become a standout choice for many drywall enthusiasts.

Twist-N-Lock Drywall Anchors for Medium-Duty Applications

Twist-N-Lock Drywall Anchors for Medium-Duty Applications | Image

I recently came across this E-Z Ancor 50-pack assorted length drywall anchor kit, and I must say, it has been a game-changer for my home decor. With no pre-drilling necessary, installation was a breeze using just a #2 Phillips screwdriver.

In my experience, the twist-n-lock anchors provided a strong and secure hold, thanks to their split and grip technology. I appreciated the audible click during the screw install process, which provided confirmation that the anchor was set correctly.

The plastic anchors worked great in drywall, and even with some wood backing I encountered behind a wall. However, the metal anchors broke three times when I hit a stud, which made me hesitant to recommend them.

Overall, this 50-pack of various length and diameter anchors has been perfect for hanging kitchen and bathroom accessories, mirrors, pictures, window treatments, and open shelving. I highly recommend it to others looking for a reliable and user-friendly anchor solution.

Buyer’s Guide

Drywall is a popular and affordable construction material, but it doesn’t offer a lot of structural strength. That’s where drywall anchors come in. These devices allow you to hang heavy objects on the wall without causing it to crumble. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll go over the important features, considerations, and general advice for selecting the best drywall anchors for your needs.

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Types of Drywall Anchors

There are three main types of drywall anchors: toggle, expansion, and molly. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose the right one for the job. 1. Toggle anchors are the most common and are made up of two metal pieces that fold out when the screw is driven. They hold well but may not be suitable for heavier items. Expansion anchor features a hollow plastic body that deforms and expands when inserted into the wall. This type is great for hanging medium to heavy objects. Molly anchors use a combination of toggle and expansion principles, making them ideal for hanging heavier objects.

Installation Techniques

Before installing drywall anchors, make sure the wall is clean and dry. Next, use a drywall anchor drill bit to create a pilot hole. Then, insert the anchor according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re using a toggle anchor, hold the toggle in place while turning the screw clockwise until it clicks. For expansion anchors, simply insert them and twist a few times. Molly anchors follow similar steps, but their installation is a bit more complex.

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Factors to Consider

When choosing drywall anchors, consider the weight you plan to hang, the thickness of the wall, and the surface material (drywall, concrete, or wood). Different types of anchors come in various sizes and materials, so select those that best match your requirements. Additionally, read reviews and compare prices to find the best value for your money.

Advice and Precautions

When working with drywall anchors, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes, and use a sturdy ladder or step stool to reach high places. It’s also a good idea to hang a weight on the anchor before attaching anything permanent. This can help determine if the anchor will hold the weight you plan to suspend.

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FAQ

Why do I need to use drywall anchors?

Drywall anchors are necessary to ensure that screws, hooks, and other hanging hardware are securely attached to the drywall. By themselves, drywall screws can’t hold much weight, and without proper anchoring, the screws can strip or pull out of the wall, leading to damaged drywall and safety concerns.

Furthermore, drywall anchors provide a stable base for items that need to be hung on the wall, such as pictures, shelves, and TVs. Anchors help prevent sagging or falling over time, which can cause damage to the items themselves and potentially harm the user or others in the area. Therefore, drywall anchors are an essential component in any home or business setting.

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What types of drywall anchors are available?

Drywall anchors come in different types and sizes, designed for specific applications. Some common types include toggle bolts (expansion anchors), molly bolts, and plastic drywall anchors. Toggle bolts are ideal for installing heavy items and in concrete walls, while plastic anchors are suitable for lighter items and in drywall.

Toggle bolts are the most popular type of drywall anchor, as they offer strong support and are easy to install. These anchors are typically made from plastic or metal and have a spring-loaded arm that expands when the screw is tightened. They can be reused and are available in various sizes to accommodate the weight and size of the item being hung. Another type of drywall anchor is the molly bolt, which is a screw-in anchor designed for lightweight hanging tasks.

How do I choose the right drywall anchor for my project?

When selecting a drywall anchor, consider the weight and size of the item you’ll be hanging, as well as the type of wall you’ll be working with. For lightweight items, such as shelves or picture frames, a plastic anchor may suffice. However, for heavier items, like TVs or bookcases, a toggle bolt or a sturdy molly bolt is a better option.

Additionally, if you’re working with concrete walls or if you need a more secure anchoring solution, toggle bolts are the way to go. They can handle a variety of weights and provide a stable base for hanging purposes. Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s specifications for the anchor, such as load capacity, and use those as a guide to determine which anchor is best for your task.

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Can I reuse drywall anchors?

Yes, many drywall anchors can be reused. Toggle bolts, a popular type of anchor, are designed to be used again and again. However, it is essential to check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure that the anchor is still functional and safe for reuse. Overusing a drywall anchor or using it for items exceeding their recommended load capacity can lead to wall damage, safety issues, and ultimately the anchor’s failure.

If you decide to reuse a toggle bolt, make sure to remove the screw, compress the spring-loaded arm back into its original position, and then insert the screw again. It is also a good practice to periodically rotate the anchors to prevent an uneven weight distribution that can compromise their structural integrity.

How do I install drywall anchors?

The installation process for drywall anchors differs depending on the type of anchor you choose. However, for most toggle bolts, the following steps are usually involved:

  1. Mark the location where you want to mount your item on the wall, 2) Punch a hole into the wall using a spade bit that is the same diameter as the anchor shank, 3) Insert the anchor shank into the hole by twisting it into place, 4) Turn the bolt clockwise until the anchor compresses and locks into the wall, and 5) Hang your item and secure it using the screw provided with the anchor.

For plastic anchors, the installation process is usually simpler. 1) Mark the location where you want to hang your item on the wall, 2) Insert the anchor shank into the hole and press it into the wall until it clicks into place, 3) Attach your item using the screw provided with the anchor, and 4) Tighten the screw securely.

What if I don’t use the right anchor for my project?

Using the wrong drywall anchor for your project can lead to a series of problems, ranging from damaged drywall to safety concerns. If a screw pulls out or an item falls off the wall, it can cause injury or damage to property. Moreover, the wrong type of drywall anchor may result in a weaker support system, which can compromise the structural integrity of your walls over time.

Therefore, it’s essential to choose the appropriate anchor for your project and ensure it can handle the weight of the item you’re hanging. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines, familiarize yourself with the different types of drywall anchors, and consider the weight, size, and type of the wall you’re working with when making your selection. By investing the right amount of time and effort, you can ensure a safe and secure hanging experience for all your wall-mounted items.

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