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Drilling a wall to insert a fixing for a picture, mirror, or other item may seem like a straightforward DIY task, but it’s easy to get wrong if you don’t take the correct steps along the way. This step-by-step guide will help you through the process.
Drilling and fixing to a plasterboard wallmeans you need a different type of wall plug than is needed for a solid wall. The correct choice will also depend on other factors such as the weight of the item you want to hang. For example, a heavy mirror needs a stronger plug than a light picture. The plugs shown here are among several we stock from the Expandet Rossett range – just ask us for advice if you’re unsure which type is right for you. And whatever plug you use, be sure to choose the correct drill bit size.
Pick the spot on the wall where you want to hang your item. Use a measuring tape and spirit level if necessary – e.g. if it is to hang half-way between two other items, or in a horizontal line with other décor. Make sure the spot you want to drill is not near any light switches or electrical sockets. For added peace of mind, you could use a cable detector to make sure there are now wires or cables running behind that spot. Use a pencil to mark the spot to be drilled.
Lay down newspaper on the floor or even tape a large envelope to the wall under the spot to be drilled, to collect the dust that will fall. Then insert the correct drill bit size – as indicated on the packet of the wall plugs you are using – to your drill. Be sure to use a wood drill bit rather than a masonry one, and if your drill has a hammer action, be sure it is turned off. Then line the bit up carefully with your pencil mark, and begin to drill. It will only take a couple of seconds at most, because of how plasterboard is such a soft material.
First insert your wall plug into the hole you have drilled, until it is flush with the wall. It should be a tight fit if you have used the correct drill bit size. You can use a small hammer to gently tap in the plug if necessary. Then use a screwdriver to insert a screw into the plug, leaving it protruding slightly to take your mirror, picture, or other items.
Now hang your object on the screw and stand back to make sure it’s level. This is where it’s often handy to have a second person about, saying ‘up a bit… down a bit… there you go!’. Once it’s level, clean away the dust, put away the tools, and enjoy the new feature in your room.