Buying Guide for the Best Strongest Drywall Anchor
Choosing the right drywall anchor is important to ensure whatever you hang on your wall stays secure and safe. Drywall anchors are used when you need to hang something on drywall and there isn’t a wall stud available. The 'strongest' drywall anchor for you depends on what you’re hanging, the weight, and how often you might want to move or adjust it. Understanding the key specifications will help you pick the best anchor for your needs and avoid damage to your walls.Weight CapacityWeight capacity tells you how much weight the anchor can safely hold in drywall. This is crucial because using an anchor with too low a capacity can cause your item to fall and damage the wall. Anchors are usually rated for light (up to 20 lbs), medium (20-50 lbs), or heavy-duty (over 50 lbs) loads. If you’re hanging small pictures or light shelves, a light-duty anchor is enough. For larger shelves, TVs, or heavy mirrors, look for heavy-duty anchors. Always check the weight of what you want to hang and choose an anchor rated for a bit more than that to be safe.
Anchor TypeThere are several types of drywall anchors, such as plastic expansion anchors, self-drilling anchors, toggle bolts, and molly bolts. Each type works differently and offers different strengths. Plastic expansion anchors are good for light loads, self-drilling anchors are easy to install and handle medium loads, while toggle and molly bolts are best for heavy items. If you need maximum strength, toggle bolts are usually the strongest, but they require a larger hole. Consider what you’re hanging and how permanent you want the installation to be when choosing the type.
Wall Thickness CompatibilityDrywall comes in different thicknesses, most commonly 1/2 inch or 5/8 inch. Some anchors are designed for specific wall thicknesses, and using the wrong one can reduce holding power. Check your wall’s thickness and make sure the anchor is compatible. If you’re not sure, most anchors list the range of drywall thicknesses they work with. Picking the right match ensures the anchor will grip properly and hold the weight you need.
Ease of InstallationSome anchors require drilling a pilot hole, while others can be screwed directly into the wall. If you’re not comfortable with tools or want a quick job, look for self-drilling anchors or those labeled as 'easy install.' For heavier loads, you might need to use anchors that require more steps, like toggle bolts, which take more time but offer more strength. Think about your comfort level with installation and how much effort you want to put in.
Reusability and RemovabilitySome drywall anchors can be removed and reused, while others are single-use and may leave a larger hole when taken out. If you plan to move things around or want to minimize wall damage, look for anchors that are easy to remove and leave a small hole. If you’re installing something permanent, this may not matter as much. Your future plans for the wall can help guide this choice.