Anchors for Shelf, Plaster, and Lath Walls: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to hanging heavy objects or shelves on plaster, lath, or drywall, it's essential to use the right anchors to ensure stability and prevent damage to your walls. In this article, we'll explore the best anchors for shelf, plaster, and lath walls, including their uses, advantages, and limitations.

Drywall Anchors: The Most Popular Choice

For light to medium loads (less than 25 pounds), drywall anchors are an excellent choice. They come in metal and plastic varieties, with the most popular being the all-purpose drywall anchor. These anchors have a sleeve that takes #4, #6, or #8 screws, making them suitable for heavy picture frames, bulletin boards, smoke alarms, door chimes, lightweight shelving, wall-mounted light fixtures, and wall-mounted mirrors.

To use drywall anchors, simply screw the anchor into the wall with a Phillips screwdriver or cordless drill fitted with a Phillips bit. For heavier loads, it's recommended to use expanding plastic sleeves that can spread their 'wings' to provide better grip on the drywall.

Plaster Anchors: The Best for Plaster and Masonry

For plaster walls and masonry surfaces, anchors like the blue one are more effective than those designed for drywall. These anchors don't expand enough to grab well in drywall but work better in plaster and best in masonry. To use them, drill a hole that allows a snug fit for the sleeve, then fasten by driving a screw into the sleeve. You may need to tap it home with a hammer until the anchor flange seats against the surface.

Expanding Plastic Sleeves: The Best Fasteners for Light and Medium Loads

Available in several varieties, expanding plastic sleeves are an excellent choice for light (less than 10 pounds) and medium loads (10-25 pounds). They work well for hanging heavy picture frames, bulletin boards, smoke alarms, door chimes, lightweight shelving, wall-mounted light fixtures, and wall-mounted mirrors.

The Benefits of Having the Right Anchors

Having a collection of anchors can be beneficial in various ways. You won't need to run to the store every time a hanging job comes up, and you'll avoid worrying about your wall art crashing to the ground. With the right anchor for the job, you'll be able to hang heavy objects or shelves with confidence.

Anchors are an essential part of any DIY project, especially when it comes to hanging heavy objects on plaster, lath, or drywall surfaces. By understanding the different types of anchors and their uses, you'll be better equipped to tackle any hanging job that comes your way. Remember, it's always best to use the right anchor for the job to ensure stability, safety, and a professional-looking finish.

Anchors shelf plaster and lath walls