How to Install a Drywall Anchor

  1. Choose the anchor for the weight: plastic conical for light items, threaded/self-drilling or molly for medium, toggle for heavy.
  2. Mark the location and check there is no stud, wire, or pipe behind it.
  3. For conical anchors, drill or punch a hole slightly smaller than the anchor and tap it in flush.
  4. For self-drilling metal anchors, drive the anchor in with a drill until flush โ€” no pilot hole needed.
  5. Position the fixture and drive the screw until the anchor expands and the screw is snug.
  6. Stop before over-tightening โ€” the anchor will spin in an enlarged hole and lose grip.

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