Last Updated on June 23, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
Hollow walls and drywall can be a great way to save time and money on your construction or home improvement project. However, if you don’t use the right type of anchor, you could end up with a big mess on your hands. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of hollow wall and drywall anchors, and explain how to choose the right one for your project. Stay safe and have fun!
What is a drywall anchor?
A drywall anchor is a small metal or plastic piece that is used to hold a screw in place. The anchor is inserted into the wall and the screw is then screwed into the anchor.
They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be made from metal, plastic, or even wood.
What is a hollow wall anchor?
A hollow wall anchor is a type of fastener used to secure objects to walls or other surfaces. Hollow wall anchors are inserted into a drilled hole and then expanded, creating a tight fit. They can be used in both drywall and plaster and are ideal for attaching shelves, picture frames, and other decor items to your walls.
Types of Hollow Wall and Drywall Anchors.
If you’re hanging anything on your walls, you need to use the right type of anchor. Here’s a guide to the different types of hollow wall and drywall anchors.
1. Adhesive Anchor.
Adhesive anchor is an important part of the construction process. It is used to provide a secure connection between two materials. Adhesive anchor can be used in concrete, brick, and stone. Adhesive anchor is available in different sizes and designs.
Adhesive anchor can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications. Adhesive anchor is easy to install and does not require any special tools. Adhesive anchor is a cost effective solution for your construction needs.
Pros and cons of adhesive anchor:
Adhesive anchors have a lot of advantages. They are very versatile, they can be used in a wide range of applications and they are easy to install. Adhesive anchors also have a high load-bearing capacity and are vibration resistant.
The main disadvantage of adhesive anchors is that they require a clean and dry surface for proper installation. If the surface is not clean or dry, the adhesive will not bond properly and the anchor will not be secure.
Adhesive anchors are also not recommended for use in areas where there is a lot of movement or vibration. If you are looking for a secure and reliable anchor, adhesive anchors are a great option.
2. Alligator anchor.
Alligator anchor is an easy way to secure your drywall without worrying about the weight of the item you’re hanging.
To use, simply drive the alligator anchor into the drywall using a hammer. The sharp teeth on the anchor will bite into the drywall and hold it securely in place. Next, screw your chosen fastener into the alligator anchor. That’s it! Your drywall is now securely anchored and ready to hold whatever you need it to.
Pros and cons of alligator anchor:
The alligator anchor is a popular choice for hollow walls and drywall. It is easy to install and remove, making it a good option for temporary or light-duty applications.
Alligator anchors also have good holding power in both drywall and plaster surfaces. However, they are not recommended for use in concrete or brick walls.
Alligator anchors are not suitable for heavy-duty applications. They are also not recommended for use in walls that are subject to vibration, such as those in close proximity to trains or highways. Alligator anchors should also be avoided in walls that are exposed to weather or moisture.
3. Cement Board Screw Anchor.
Cement board screw anchor is an easy to use and versatile fastener. It is ideal for attaching cement board to wood or steel studs in both interior and exterior applications. The unique design of the anchor allows it to be installed with a single screw and no pre-drilling is required.
The Cement Board Screw Anchor can be used in a variety of applications including:
- attaching cement board to wood or steel studs
- fastening drywall to wood or steel studs
- fastening plywood to wood or steel studs
- and much more!
Pros and cons of cement board screw anchor:
The main advantage of a cement board screw anchor is that it provides a very strong hold. This type of anchor is also ideal for use in areas where there is little or no room for expansion, such as in solid brick walls.
On the downside, cement board screw anchors can be difficult to remove if you ever need to change or repair something in the wall.
4. Metal drywall anchors.
Metal drywall anchor is a type of wall anchor used to secure screws in hollow walls. They are also known as molly bolts or toggle bolts. Metal drywall anchors are available in different sizes and types. The most common type is the plastic sleeve with a metal screw.
When choosing a metal drywall anchor, be sure to select one that is the correct size and type for the weight and thickness of the item you are hanging. Hollow walls are made of two layers of drywall with a space in between. The thickness of the wall will determine the size and type of anchor needed.
Pros and cons of metal drywall anchors:
As with any wall anchor, there are pros and cons to using metal drywall anchors.
On the plus side, they are incredibly strong and can support a lot of weight. They’re also easy to install and remove, which is handy if you ever need to move or adjust your shelves or other hanging items.
On the downside, they can be a bit more expensive than other types of anchors, and they’re not as aesthetically pleasing.
5. Plastic drywall anchors.
Plastic drywall anchor is a type of drywall anchor used to support light fixtures, small shelves and other objects hung on walls. They are inserted into a drilled hole and then the screw is driven into the anchor, which expands it against the sides of the hole.
Plastic drywall anchors come in different sizes and each size has a different weight limit that it can support. The size of the hole you drill will depend on the size of the anchor you use.
Pros and cons of plastic drywall anchors:
Plastic drywall anchors are easy to install and remove. They can be used in both hollow and solid walls. Plastic drywall anchors are not as strong as metal ones, but they are less likely to damage the wall.
Disadvantages of plastic drywall anchors include:
-They are not as strong as metal drywall anchors
-They are more likely to damage the wall
-They are not reusable
6. Plastic expansion anchor.
Plastic expansion anchor is a type of drywall anchor used to secure drywall to a wall or ceiling. The plastic expansion anchor is inserted into a drilled hole in the drywall and expands as a screw is tightened, creating a secure connection between the drywall and the wall or ceiling.
Plastic expansion anchors are available in different sizes and lengths to accommodate different thicknesses of drywall.
To install a plastic expansion anchor:
- Drill a hole in the drywall that is slightly larger than the diameter of the anchor.
- Insert the anchor into the hole.
- Use a screwdriver to tighten the screw, expanding the anchor and securing it in place.
- Repeat for each plastic expansion anchor required.
Pros and cons of Plastic expansion anchor:
Plastic expansion anchors are the most commonly used type of drywall anchor. They are easy to install and remove, and they hold well in both drywall and plaster. However, they are not as strong as other types of anchors, so they may not be suitable for heavy duty applications.
Another con of plastic expansion anchors is that they are not very aesthetically pleasing, so they may not be the best choice for applications where aesthetics are important.
7. Plastic Hollow Wall Plug.
Plastic hollow wall plug is a kind of cable support used to fix the position of a line or wire in a wall. It is made of plastic and has two parts, one is the body part with an internal thread, and the other is the cap part with an external thread.
The body part is inserted into a drilled hole in the wall, and then the cap part is screwed onto the body part to fix the position of the line or wire.
Plastic hollow wall plug has the advantage of being easy to install and remove. It can be used in various applications, such as Ethernet cables, coaxial cables, and fiber optic cables. Plastic hollow wall plug is also available in different colors to match the color of the wall.
8. Self-drilling anchor.
Self-drilling anchor is a type of wall anchor used to secure objects to drywall. It is also known as a toggle bolt. This anchor is easy to use and does not require a pilot hole. It is ideal for hanging pictures, mirrors, shelves, and other heavy objects.
Pros and cons of Self-drilling anchor:
The main advantage of the self-drilling anchor is that it doesn’t require a pilot hole to be drilled before installation. This can save a lot of time, especially if you’re working with hard materials like concrete. They’re also less likely to slip or loosen over time, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.
However, self-drilling anchors are more expensive than traditional anchors, and they’re not always the best choice for every job. If you’re working with soft materials like drywall, it’s often better to use a traditional anchor that can be easily removed if necessary.
9. Sleeve anchor.
Sleeve anchor is a type of masonry anchor used in brick, block or concrete. It consists of a metal sleeve that is inserted into a predrilled hole and expanded with a setscrew to grip the wall material.
The sleeve anchor’s holding strength is determined by the depth of its setting and the diameter of its expansion cone.
Sleeve anchors are available in a variety of diameters and lengths to accommodate different wall thicknesses and load requirements.
They can be used for light-duty applications such as attaching furring strips, picture frames and small shelves to masonry walls. For heavier loads, sleeve anchors should be used in conjunction with expansion bolts or screw eyes.
Pros and cons of Sleeve anchor:
The major advantage of sleeve anchors is that they are very versatile. They can be used in a variety of materials, including concrete, brick, and block. They are also easy to install and remove.
A potential downside of sleeve anchors is that they are not as strong as some other types of anchors, such as wedge anchors. They also have a tendency to loosen over time.
10. Spring Anchor.
Spring anchor is a plastic sleeve with a metal helix inside. It works by expanding when you drive it into the wall, so it can be used in both drywall and plaster. The advantage of this type of anchor is that it’s easy to remove if you need to.
Pros and cons of spring anchor:
The main advantage of a spring anchor is that it is very easy to install. All you need to do is drive the anchor into the wall with a hammer, and then screw your object into the anchor. Spring anchors are also quite strong, and can support a lot of weight.
However, there are some disadvantages to using spring anchors. One is that they are not very aesthetically pleasing, and can stick out from the wall quite a bit. Additionally, spring anchors are not very secure in plaster walls, and can easily be pulled out.
11. Steel hollow wall anchor.
Steel hollow wall anchor is a fast and easy way to secure drywall to a wall or ceiling. The two-piece design of the steel hollow wall anchor provides superior holding power in both concrete and block applications. The zinc-plated finish resists corrosion.
The steel hollow wall anchor is available in sizes ranging from #0 to #14. The diameter of the hole that needs to be drilled is determined by the size of the steel hollow wall anchor being used.
The length of the steel hollow wall anchor is also determined by the thickness of the drywall being installed. The minimum length required for each drywall thickness is as follows:
- ½” thick drywall – at least ¾” long
- ¾” thick drywall – at least 11⁄16” long
- Double thickness drywall – at least 15⁄16” long
Pros and cons of Steel hollow wall anchor:
The steel hollow wall anchor is a great choice for a sturdy and reliable anchor. It is easy to install and remove, and it holds up well in both drywall and plaster walls.
However, the steel hollow wall anchor can be difficult to remove if it is not installed correctly, and it is not recommended for use in concrete or brick walls.
12. Strap toggle drywall anchor.
Strap toggle drywall anchor is a handy tool that can be used to secure objects to a wall without the need for nails or screws. This type of anchor is perfect for hanging pictures, mirrors, and shelves. Strap toggle drywall anchors are easy to use and can be found at most hardware stores.
To use a strap toggle drywall anchor, simply insert theanchor into the wall and then use a screwdriver or drill to tighten the toggle in place. The object that you’re securing will then be able to hang from the strap toggle drywall anchor.
Pros and cons of Strap toggle drywall anchor:
The strap toggle drywall anchor is a great option for hanging things on walls. It is easy to install and can be done in just a few minutes. The biggest advantage of this type of anchor is that it is very strong and can hold a lot of weight.
The downside of the strap toggle drywall anchor is that it is not very aesthetically pleasing. It is also not the best option for hanging things on walls that are not perfectly flat. If your wall has any irregularities, the strap toggle drywall anchor may not grip as well as other types of anchors.
If you need a strong and reliable drywall anchor, the strap toggle drywall anchor is a great option. However, if you are looking for an anchor that is more aesthetically pleasing, you may want to consider another option.
13. Threaded Drywall Anchor.
Threaded drywall anchor is a type of wall anchor used to fasten objects to walls. It is made of a screw with a threaded shaft and an eyelet that is inserted into a drilled hole in the wall. The object to be hung is then attached to the anchor with a screw.
Threaded drywall anchors are available in different sizes and lengths to accommodate different thicknesses of drywall. They can also be used in plaster and other types of wall material.
When choosing a threaded drywall anchor, it is important to consider the weight of the object to be hung and the type of wall material. The size and length of the anchor will also depend on the thickness of the drywall. It is also important to make sure that the anchor is inserted into the wall at the correct depth.
If you are hanging a heavy object, it is best to use two or more anchors to distribute the weight. For lighter objects, one anchor should be sufficient. Make sure that the eyelet of the anchor is facing up so that the screw can be inserted easily.
Pros and cons of Threaded Drywall Anchor:
Threaded drywall anchor is one of the most popular types of wall anchors. It is easy to install and provides a strong hold. However, it can be difficult to remove if you need to make any adjustments. Additionally, threaded drywall anchors are not always the best choice for heavier objects.
14. Toggle bolt drywall anchor.
Toggle bolt drywall anchor is a type of wall anchor used to secure objects to drywall. This anchor consists of a metal strap with a toggle at one end and a screw at the other.
The strap is inserted through a hole in the object to be mounted, then pulled back until the toggle catches on the inside of the drywall panel. The screw is then tightened, drawing the object tight against the wall.
Toggle bolt drywall anchors are ideal for use in walls that are subject to vibration, such as in an earthquake-prone area. The toggle action of the anchor provides a more secure grip than other types of wall anchors.
Pros and cons of Toggle bolt drywall anchor:
The toggle bolt is a great drywall anchor if you need extra holding power. It is easy to install and remove, and can be used over and over again.
The con of the toggle bolt is that it is not as strong as some other types of anchors, so it might not be the best choice for very heavy objects.
Another con is that the wings can be a little difficult to remove, so you might need a screwdriver or another tool to help with that. Overall, the toggle bolt is a good option for most applications.
15. Winged plastic anchor.
Winged plastic anchor is the most common type of drywall anchor. It is also called a Molly bolt.
The wings on the anchor spread out once it is inserted into the hole, which helps to grip the inside of the wall.
You can use winged plastic anchors for light to medium-duty applications such as hanging a picture or attaching a small shelf to a wall.
To install a winged plastic anchor:
- Drill a hole in the wall that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the anchor.
- Insert the anchor into the hole.
- Use a screwdriver to turn the anchor until it is tight against the wall.
- Hang your item on the screw.
Pros and cons of Winged plastic anchor:
Winged plastic anchors are easy to install and remove. The wings spread the load, making them ideal for light-duty applications. They’re also less likely to cause damage to the wall if removed. However, they’re not as strong as metal anchors and can’t be used in certain applications, such as ceilings or concrete walls.
If you’re looking for a strong and versatile drywall anchor, metal is the way to go. These anchors are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one that’s perfect for your needs. Metal anchors are also more durable and less likely to damage your walls when removed. However, they can be more difficult to install than plastic anchors.
16. Zinc drywall anchors.
Zinc drywall anchor is a great way to secure your drywall. The zinc helps to keep the anchor in place and also makes it easier to remove if needed.
Pros and cons of Zinc drywall anchors:
There are both pros and cons to using zinc drywall anchors. On the plus side, they are very strong and can hold a lot of weight. They are also easy to install and remove. On the downside, they can be difficult to remove once they have been installed, and they are not always as secure as other types of anchors.
How to choose hollow wall and drywall anchors.
There are many different types of hollow wall and drywall anchors available on the market, so it is important to know which one is best suited for your particular project.
The most common type of anchor is the toggle bolt, which is used for heavier applications such as attaching shelves to walls. Toggle bolts have a wingspan that expands once inserted into the wall, providing a very strong hold.
For lighter applications, such as hanging pictures or mirrors, plastic anchors are usually sufficient. Plastic anchors come in different sizes and shapes, so be sure to select the appropriate size for the weight of your project.
Another factor to consider when choosing hollow wall and drywall anchors is the type of wall you will be attaching the anchor to.
If you are working with a plaster wall, you will need to use a different type of anchor than if you are working with a drywall.
Plaster walls are much harder to drill into, so it is important to use an anchor that is designed for this type of surface. Drywall anchors are not recommended for use in plaster walls.
Conclusion
There are a variety of hollow wall and drywall anchors available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best anchor for your application will depend on the weight of the object to be hung, the type of wall material, and the availability of a solid backing. When in doubt, consult a professional contractor or handyman for assistance.