Do you ALWAYS have to use drywall plugs when hanging something on the wall?

Question

Dumb question but...

Are drywall plugs only necessary for heavy items? I am hanging curtain holdbacks and they are very light. The package came with screws and plastic plugs, but are the plastic plugs really necessary?

Answer 1

The best way is to screw directly into the studs that the window is nailed to. There should be one on both sides of the window frame. If in doubt use a stud finder.

Answer 2

Actually, if your putting the curtains in the wood frame of the window, you dont need the "plugs".

Those are for drywall, where you arent hitting studs.

Even though sheers are light, its the pulling and tugging that will bring them down, by forcing the screws or nails from the dry wall. (You could get drywall screws, they are black in color and will hold better, but, they are really meant to be driven into studs).

Your next option is the "wing back" toggle bolts, if you want to hang something "heavy" into drywall. But you have to make larger holes, and the toggle will "wing out" and grip the back of the drywall to help hold the weight to the wall...

I wish you well..

Jesse

Answer 3

No, if the weight you're holding on the screw is light (usually less than 5 pounds), I don't think you need the anchors.

Or, find a stud in the wall.

Answer 4

The add a little more strength....but if you know where the stud is behind the wall and its in a convient place, then no. Just use a screw long enough that will dig into the wood.

Answer 5

you don't have to but it really does help.the plugs will keep the screws from pulling out of the wall since the screws really don't have much to bite into while screwing them in.

Answer 6

it's a good idea to use them, because they serve as anchors for heavy decorations, whereas you run the risk of tearing out a bigger hole if you don't use them.