Wall Anchors & Weight Allowed

A General Rule

• Read the package label to learn the weight that the anchor can hold. Divide by four. Use this number rather than the weight listed on the label. This gives you a lot of room for error, which is especially necessary when using anchors on thin, weak walls. For example, if an anchor states it can hold up to 10 pounds, only use it to secure something that weighs 2 1/2 pounds or less.

Combination of Anchors

• You can combine anchors to hold more weight. For example, use two anchors that are rated to hold up to 100 pounds to hang a mirror that weighs 50 pounds. This uses the general rule, as each anchor can safely hold up to 25 pounds (100 divided by 4), so two anchors can safely hold up to 50 pounds.

Common Types of Anchors

• Inexpensive plastic anchors are suitable for lightweight pictures, wreaths and other small objects. A 1/4-inch plastic anchor can usually hold up to about 80 pounds. Molly bolts open and expand when they're inserted into a hollow wall and can hold heavier objects, such as mirrors and open shelving. A 1/8-inch molly bolt can often hold up to 170 pounds. Threaded anchors are also suitable for medium size objects. Toggle bolts can hold even heavier objects, often 300 pounds or more, but note that these types of anchors are difficult to remove from the wall.

Anchors for Masonry Walls

• To anchor something into a concrete or brick wall, use a specially marked anchor that's labeled for the appropriate material. Examples of anchors suitable for masonry walls are sleeved, expansion and wedge anchors. Follow the same general rule as you do for other wall anchors and hang objects that weigh up to 25 percent of the anchor’s listed weight allotment.