Wall fixings (page 2)

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Stud / partition / hollow walls

Walls constructed of timber studwork covered with plasterboard require different fixing techniques.

If at all possible, locate the timbers within the wall and line up your fixing points with these. To locate them, gently tap the surface until you hear a muffled sound indicating the presence of solid timber behind.

ALWAYS CHECK THAT THERE ARE NO PIPES OR CABLES HIDDEN IN THE WALL BENEATH THE AREA.

The screws for fixing the item may then simply be driven through the plasterboard and into the wood providing a very secure fixing.

If this is not practical, special hollow wall fixings will be required. Ordinary wall plugs will not do since they rely on a sideways force within the wall. Remember that you are relying only on the strength of plasterboard to carry the load, so heavy items cannot be fixed in this way.

Types of plug for fixings

There are many different hollow wall fixings available so you will need to check out their suitability for your particular situation.

Drill a hole of the size specified and insert the plug in the plasterboard. The exact way this is done varies so follow the manufacturer's details. Some have metal or plastic lugs which open out on the other side of the plasterboard spreading the load and providing improved strength. Others have a deep screw thread which cuts into the board. This deep thread provides the spread of load.

Choosing the right screws for plugs

As with all plugs, the size of screw will be specified, as will the acceptable thickness of the item to be fixed. There may also be information as to the maximum load acceptable on each plug. Follow these carefully to ensure a good fixing.

Insert the screw though the item to be fixed and line up with the centre of the plug. Tighten slowly to the point where a solid fixing is obtained. Do not overtighten.

Continued...

• Fixing to solid walls
• Fixing heavy loads