Find a stud (and when to use anchors)

Heavy things should hang from studs, the vertical wood or metal framing behind drywall. When there's no stud where you need one, the right anchor does the job.

Finding studs

• Studs are usually 16 inches apart, center to center (sometimes 24 inches)
• An electronic stud finder shows the edges; mark both and use the middle
• Outlets and switches are usually attached to a stud on one side
• Confirm with a tiny finish nail in a spot that will be covered: solid resistance means wood

Choosing an anchor

• Light items (under about 10 lb): plastic expansion anchors
• Medium items: threaded self-drilling drywall anchors
• Heavier items: toggle bolts or snap toggles rated for the weight
• Always check the rating on the package and stay well below it
• Plaster walls crumble easily: drill carefully and use toggles

What needs a stud

TV mounts, heavy mirrors, wall cabinets, grab bars and anything people might pull on should go into studs (or blocking) with the hardware the manufacturer specifies.

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