Hanging Heavy Wall Items
TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-606 -- More Projects »
Handywoman Lisa van Dyke offers tips for hanging heavy objects on the walls of a home.
- Make a template for heavy hanging objects such as paintings. Just cut a piece of newspaper to the same size and shape of the object, then hold the paper against the wall to decide just where to hang the object (figure A). If drilling is necessary, pre-drill the holes by using the template.
- The type of hanging fasteners or anchors that should be used will depend on the type of wall material and weight of the object. Use a bathroom scale to get an idea of the weight of a painting or mirror.
Toggle bolts should be used in most homes, as drywall usually crumbles when it's drilled (figure B). A toggle bolt will spread out the load so that the wall can support the weight.Once the fastener is solidly mounted on the wall, how do you catch the wire on the back of a large mirror on that tiny little hook? Just slip drinking straws on the hooks to make a bigger target for the wire (figure C). Slip the straws out after hanging the item.Another item that requires careful mounting is a multi-hook coat rack. It may not weigh much on its own, but fill it with a load of coats and it could weigh more than a large mirror.
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