What You Should Know About Hanging Things on Drywall

Hanging things on drywall can be daunting, especially if you’ve never done it before. Whether you’re hanging pictures, shelves, or a simple keyholder, it can be tricky to figure out the best way to mount something into your drywall without causing damage.

That's why My Handyman of Ann Arbor, Saline, and Chelsea is here! We're professional handymen dedicated to helping homeowners get their projects done right and efficiently - so let us demystify this sometimes overwhelming process. Today we'll discuss what goes into hanging something on drywall, the importance of proper planning and preparation, and the tools and skills needed for success.

Why Can Hanging Stuff on Drywall Be So Tricky?

Hanging something on drywall can be tricky for a variety of reasons. For one, the material is much more fragile than wood and plaster walls. Drywall is made up of thin layers of gypsum board that are attached to wall studs, which means it's susceptible to cracking and tearing if too much weight is applied.

In addition, drywall doesn’t have the same strength as wood and, therefore, won’t be able to support heavier items. This is where studs come into place and why it's important to ensure proper hanging techniques are used.

What Can Go Wrong with Hanging Heavy Items on Drywall?

While you certainly don't want your artwork or shelving to take a tumble, you'll also want to be aware of the other potential risks associated with hanging something on drywall that isn't done correctly:

• Wall damage due to improper use of hammers and nails
• Paint chipping when drilling holes in the drywall
• Picture frames or artwork becoming damaged due to excessive weight being placed on them
• Nails pulling out or loosening over time
• Uneven hanging of the item that causes it to lean or become crooked

How Can I Hang Something on Drywall?

Drywall screws and nails are typically used to hang items on drywall, both used in specific scenarios:

• Drywall screws provide better support than nails because they are secured with a screw head, holding the item in place better than a nail head. Anchors are often used as well, ensuring a more secure fit.
• Nails can work if the item is not too heavy or large, but they may come loose over time. Picture hooks and other hanging hardware may help support the item.

It's important to use the right type of hardware so that the item is securely held in place and won’t cause any damage to the wall. Generally, it's best to use drywall screws for heavier items, such as shelves and cabinets, and nails for lighter items, such as picture frames and artwork.

Our Handyman's Tips for Successfully Hanging Items on Drywall

Double Check for Support

Finding a stud or using an anchor is essential for any successful wall-mounting project. When mounting items to your walls, it's important to remember that drywall is not strong enough to support heavy objects without the help of a stud or an anchor.

Studs provide a solid connection that can carry more weight, while anchors give you added security should the object become too heavy and shift position. With the right mounting solutions in place, you can safely hang heavier items and enjoy a worry-free experience when hanging lighter items from your walls!

Use the Right Sized Drill Bit

When drilling holes in the drywall for screws, it is important to use a drill bit with a larger diameter than the screw itself. This ensures that the screw will fit securely into the newly drilled hole, providing optimal support and preventing any wobbling or loosening over time. Selecting a drill bit with the right diameter ensures that your hanging project will remain secure and last many years.

Don't Overtighten Hardware

Care should be taken to not overtighten screws when hanging items from a wall. Overtightening can cause the screw to pull out of the drywall over time, leading to an unsightly and potentially dangerous result. When screwing into drywall, use only enough torque for secure installation - any extra effort will not benefit the security of your items.

No Stud or Anchor? Stick to Light Items

When you do not have access to a stud or an anchor, it is important to avoid hanging heavy items from drywall. Drywall can only take so much weight before it begins to crumble and tear, making lightweight objects the best option for hanging in this situation.

Stick with lightweight items such as pictures, paintings, and other decorative accents to keep your walls safe. If you need to hang something heavy, invest time and money to get the right hardware.

Skip Drywall Repairs & Let My Handyman of Ann Arbor, Saline, and Chelsea Handle It

When hanging your precious memories or adding function to your home, it's important to do the job right to keep your walls and items safe. Whether you're a bit nervous about installing the hardware on your own or just want to avoid drywall repairs altogether, turn to the team at My Handyman of Ann Arbor, Saline, and Chelsea for help!

Our Ann Arbor handymen have all the necessary tools, knowledge, and experience to hang even the heaviest item in your home safely and securely. When you’re ready to learn more about how we can help, reach out for an estimate for your next project!

Contact us today for more information on how we can help you with your drywall hanging projects!