How to Anchor a Heavy Object From the Ceiling

While you shouldn't hang anything heavier than a small plant from a standard ceiling hook, it is possible to hang really heavy objects from the ceiling, such as a punching bag, hammock, artwork, decorative canopy, bicycle or heavy potted plant. To successfully hang something heavy from the ceiling, build in additional support to avoid damaging the ceiling and hurting someone if the object should fall.

Stepladder
Drill
2 (2-by-4) oak boards, 2 feet long
3-inch wood screws
Eye bolt
S-hook, optional

Instructions

- 1
  Determine where you want the ceiling anchor to go. Climb on the ladder and make a pencil mark on the ceiling.
- 2
  Drill a pilot hole at the pencil mark, pushing through the drywall into the attic space above.
- 3
  Climb into the attic space and locate the hole. Bring the oak boards, the wood screws and a drill. Screw one oak board to the ceiling joists so the board spans the pilot hole. Screw the second oak board on top of the first using wood screws. Return to the main floor.
- 4
  Screw in an eye bolt through the pilot hole, driving it into the oak board supports just above the drywall. Screw it in until the threads cannot be seen. Hang your heavy object from the eyebolt; add an S-hook if needed.

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