What size drill to use for the anchor

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What size drill should I use for the wall anchor?
Plastic anchors
Toggle-Style Anchors
Heavy Duty Wall Anchors

By the end of this guide, you should be able to easily select the correct size drill bit for your wall anchors.

I have been installing drywall anchors for many years. Knowing the correct drill bit for the various wall anchors makes installation and application easier, while reducing the risks of misplaced wall anchors that can cause your items to fall.

To choose the right drywall anchor drill bit:

Check if the diameter is indicated on the package and use a drill of the same diameter.
Measure the length of the shank with a ruler and use an appropriately sized drill bit.
Most plastic anchors use ½" drills.
For heavy wall anchors, measure the sleeve with a ruler and use a drill bit of the correct diameter.

I'll tell you more below.

What size drill should I use for the wall anchor?

You will need a drill bit that is the right size for your wall to make it easier to mount tools and other materials on the wall in an organized and stable manner.

To select the correct drill size:

Align the drill shank with the anchor body, excluding the flange.
Then choose a slightly smaller drill bit.

Another way to choose the right drill bit for the wall:

Analyze the back of the wall anchor package. Some manufacturers indicate the diameter of the anchor.
Then select the drill accordingly.

The idea is for the anchor to fit snugly into the hole. It should not twist or wobble in the hole. Start with a small hole first, because you can always drill a larger hole, but you can't drill smaller holes.

Plastic anchors

A ½" drill bit can work well in a plastic wall anchor.

Plastic anchors are commonly used to secure light or medium items to walls and hollow core doors.

Plastic anchors with wide flanges at one end require the correct drill bit. The width of the drill should match the narrow part of the anchor on the plastic dowels to create the pilot hole.

Once the anchor is in the hole, fold back the end and place a screw of the specified gauge onto the anchor package. The screw will enlarge the side of the plastic dowel, securing it to the wall.

You can always know that the hole is the correct diameter when you experience some resistance pushing the anchor into the wall. However, you can change the drill if you experience more resistance.

Tips to help you determine the right size anchor:

If the diameter is listed on the anchor package, use a drill with the same diameter.
Use a ruler to measure the shank in relation to the front of the anchor. You can find a drill bit the same size or 1/16" larger to create the screw hole.
Do not hang items that weigh more than the weight indicated on the anchor package. The anchor can break free and fall.

Toggle-Style Anchors

I recommend ½" Toggle Style anchor drills.

The toggle switch has wing-shaped pins that open once behind the wall, fixing it securely.

How to Install and Use Toggle-Style Anchors

Drill a hole the same width as the bent lever bolt for the pilot hole. It should be the same. Otherwise, it won't hold tight.
To use it, remove the wing bolts from the screw.
Then hook the screw for the hanging object while permanently fixing on the wall.
Then fasten the winged probes on the screws so that they open towards the screw head.

Pushing the assembly through the wall and turning the screw opens the toggle bolt (or butterfly) latch.

Heavy Duty Wall Anchors

Metal and plastic wall anchors with flared wings can hold heavy objects. And they don't have to fit snugly against the wall like lightweight anchors.

Measure or check the diameter of the sleeve before drilling the hole for the reinforced anchor. Hole and bushing diameters must match.

You can use a ruler to measure the bushing diameter. Keep the wings or buttons folded close to the sleeve during the exercise. Once you get the size, usually in inches, use a bit with the resulting diameter.

However, you can purchase heavy duty self-tapping wall anchors. In this case, you do not need a drill.

Note:

The hole size depends and varies by product. However, the range is usually ½ to ¾ inch. Wall anchors that can hold up to 70 pounds require larger holes to accommodate wings or locks so the locks can distribute the weight over a larger surface area behind the wall.

When installing heavy objects such as a TV and microwave oven, mark the studs with a stud finder. Then make sure at least one side of the mount is attached to the stud. This way, your heavy item will remain attached to the wall. (1)

Tip:

I recommend using a monkey hook when drilling a hole in the wall to hang a heavy item. This is an easy to use product that can hold up to 50 pounds.

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