fixing bookcase to plasterboard walls

Does the job and can work really well, being able to hold similar weight as the above one. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Use your stud detector to find them, then draw two vertical guides along the lines of the studs. A drill, wood screws, a pencil, hammer and nail for marking up, and a stud detector. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. In this case, 89% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. 3) Ensure you drill the hole horizontally and deep enough, do not force the drill or enlarge the hole. IF IN DOUBT CONSULT A QUALIFIED TRADESMAN WHO HAS EXPERIENCE IN FITTING WALL MOUNTED SHELVING OF ALL TYPES, PARTICULARY WHEN FITTING FLOATING SHELVES, AND/OR CONTACT THE SHELVING SHOP FOR TECHNICAL ADVICE . Can you locate the studs? Email info@shelvingshop.com.au. One of the many struggles people might get with plasterboards and dry walls in general is whether they can or cannot fix to it anything heavier than a picture frame. The only difference with an outside wall is the presence of insulation between the studs, which should have no impact on the anchoring process. However, you will need to use plastic wall plugs to make sure the screws are secure. My granddaughter is just starting to walk and I'm worried. They have metal wings that can fold down to pass through a pre-drilled hole. They can either be inserted manually, or with a, Abrasives, Fillers, Sealants & Lubricants, The Handyman's Guide on How to Hang a Door, How to Paint a Wall with No Previous Experience, Basic Electrics: How to Correctly Wire a Plug. Here, we'll work through the example of a simple, single shelf with brackets. You can use the cable and pipe detector to locate them or simply avoid obvious places. HINTS:- Check that your installer has previous experience in fitting wall mounted shelving and shelving brackets. 2) Ensure you use the recommended high quality sharp drill bit to suit the wall plug and hole size. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions. I want to fix some shelving to plasterboard walls. 7. First you need to locate the studs. In order to do it properly you should follow the following steps: Measure the distance of the cabinet hangers ultimately you can do it after making holes in the wall if fixing is flexible, but make sure you do not end up with holes next to your cabinet, Establish where it should be mounted ideally it should be fixed on wall stud, but if its not the located in the centre in relation to the toilet its not a big deal. If the bookshelf will be located there permanently, it would be worth cutting out the section of baseboard that is touching the back of the bookshelf. Thank you very much! "I did not know about the Velcro usage for securing a bookcase to the wall. Even if attaching directly to plasterboard panels there are still options available to support larger items like mirrors, radiators, and cupboards. Thanks for your comment , Your email address will not be published. They should be placed every 60 cm (23-24 inches). Going further it can damage your kitchen furniture or even hurt someone. If you cant find a stud, you should install wall anchors before you drive screws into drywall or masonry. render, villaboard or gyprock drywall and use fixings commensurate with the wall type. A metal spring toggle can hold up to 45kg in weight, and can be removed from walls. If also the above solution is not good enough for your kitchen situation, you have a range of great fixing products available online and in regular walk-in stores, like Screwfix, B&Q or your local shop. Drill holes and fix the second bracket. Keep up to date with our DIY projects, tips and latest deals, Powered by phpBB Forum Software phpBB Group, General Building, Self Build and Renovation, Planning Regs, Project Management and Safety, Fixing to Walls Issues and Problems Forum, Best Fixings for Securing Heavy Bookcase to Plasterboard Wall, Best Fixings for Fixing Heavy Bedroom Wall Cupboards to Wall. It costs almost nothing and can save you a huge headache after the job is done. If your plasterboard wall consists of plasterboard panels affixed to a solid wall, such as a dot and dab wall, it can be a challenge to fix anything to the wall, due to the small gap between the plasterboard panel and the wall. We should all welcome with great relief a fact that there are multiple solutions available. "Thank you for your time and dedication. Before drilling into any wall you should use a stud finder to avoid drilling into pipes or wiring. In this case its not only the plasterboard, but you have to include the thickness of a tile as well. Gripits are a branded heavy duty plasterboard fixing, designed to hold heavy weights like radiators, TVs, or boilers. For a 1/2 inch gypsum wallboard a 1/8 inch anchor can hold around 100 pounds. Nonetheless, what is different in this scenario hanging it over the toilet. Look forward to more. Once the bookcase is positioned, place an "L" bracket on top so it is flush with the wall and shelf and use a drill to attach the bracket to the top of the shelf. You would have to use the anchor straps to hold the bookcase against the pipes. Its pretty obvious that you would like to fix cabinets to your walls, but you simply cannot fix it straight to the plasterboard. This will be around 20mm more than the depth of plasterboard and bracket. If you do not know how it has been done you can give a go with stud locator. Nonetheless, we have to learn how to work with and around that. We have teamed up with the industries best to help you find a trustworthy tradesman local to you! Then, align the brackets and drill with three-inch screws. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Unfortunately, we do not live in a perfect world, but if you are doing a complete kitchen renovation think about it in advance. Obviously. But there are a variety of options for fixing heavier items to regular plasterboard panels, as well as specialist plasterboards designed to hold heavier weights. Call now 01628674910 Mon - Fri 8:00am to 5:00pm. I am glad and humbled you liked it that gives us the inspiration to create more posts like this. Fixing heavy cabinets on #drywall is possible, but locate at least one stud to make it your base to fix anything heavier #diy #kitchen. I have bitten the bullet and pulled down the ceiling and removed the laths.The HiCan someone recommend the best method of fixing a fairly heavy mirror to Are there different ways of fixing plasterboard to brick walls? The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user. If thats the case you just have to drill two holes, insert the plugs and fix the cabinet. DIY how to tutorial projects and guides - Did you know we have a DIY Projects section? In case you have a plasterboard wall it is not much different than doing the same in the kitchen, so you can doubtlessly use all the tips and solution presented above. In her free time, you can find her working on a new crochet pattern, listening to true crime podcasts, or tackling a new creative writing project. If you would like more in-depth presentation you can find it. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. Put the shelf down and pick up the second bracket and spirit level. Whatever you do just DO NOT go with an idea of using longer screws and plugs. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Choose the right length of screw to properly anchor the shelf to the stud. Why do I need to find the studs? 6. Will try on a bookcase that is used for, "Reminding me to use a bracket rather than screw directly into the back of the bookcase helped. Also, avoid stacking the books so that the shelf is top-heavy, or it may push away from the wall. Just make sure you put it in a stud. A correctly fitted floating shelf bracket will have no visible movement between the brackets base piece and the wall surface when load is applied to the bracket rod (s). Look forward to more. GeeFix uses standard screws rather than bolts for its final fixing so you can use any suitable screw in a finish either to match your decor or whatever youre fixing, ah yes, GeeFix is definitely another great option! Plus few more on top of that. Whether you want to secure a TV, a mirror, or even a radiator to your plasterboard wall, there are options available to you. Copyright 2005-2022. This gives you a perfect base to hang any sort of cabinets. in English from East Stroudsburg University, she has a passion for writing a wide variety of content for anyone and everyone. ", "I'm putting up shelves for books and other stuff. Thank you for making the effort! Hollow wall anchors are designed to expand on the other side of a plasterboard sheet, securing the fixing in place. please bear in mind that different weights might require more heavy duty solutions. Mainly because its the easiest way to crack your newly laid tiles. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. A little bit different story is when you have to put up a bathroom cabinet or anything else on tiles. Of course, making sure with spirit level beforehand if its all level as it should. There are baseboards on my wall preventing my book shelves from being snug against the wall. Below you can find few of them briefly explained with pictures for better understanding how they work. From there you can hang even very heavy cabinets with properly selected hangers. Otherwise, cut a strip of wood the same width of the bookshelf that is the same thickness as your baseboard to ensure the bookshelf stands flush and does not wobble. How do I fasten it? Hanging a cabinet in bathroom is probably even easier that in the kitchen, because very often you will have solid brick walls. The CDs are piled on the floor, the paperbacks are doing an impression of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The strongest model of Gripit claims to hold up to 113kg in weight, and they can be removed from a wall easily. Approved. Below you can find few of them briefly explained with pictures for better understanding how they work. You can always play a little bit with the cabinet, but do your best to mark it properly, Drill holes and follow the instructions available above please make sure you are using correct drill bits if the wall is already tiled. DOES NOT GUARANTEE OR WARRANTY THE FIXING BY A THIRD PARTY OFANY OF ITS SHELVING BRACKETS OR SHELVING KITS WHICH ARE FIXED TO ANY WALL OR SUBSTRATE, OR FIXED USING INCORRECT HARDWARE OR FIXED OR FITTED BY UNLICENSED TRADESMEN. and M.A. The right way to do it is by using one of the anchors presented above, but remember to choose the right length. First and foremost it will not work. Adhere the bottom side to the top of a shelf and attach the other side to knickknacks or vases. Drill a pilot hole into the wall and push the wall anchor in. Even with anchors, drywall is not as strong as wood and could potentially rip out. Having all the (hopefully) valuable information I have brought you in this article I believe a task to hang a bathroom cabinet over the toilet should be fairly easy. How do I secure a metal bookcase to the wall? The general answer to that question is yes, you can, but I would insist you should locate at least one stud to make it your base to fix anything heavier. I have presented below several ways to give you an idea on how you can proceed with that challenge to make it work and make sure it will not fall off on first occasion. Job done. There are several options for fixing heavy items to plasterboard walls, with more available to you based on the type of plasterboard in your walls and the type of backing you have. You would have to get the Velcro and screws separately. Take your shelf and balance it on the first bracket with your spirit level on top. 4) Take extra care when drilling high walls, ceilings and ceramic tiles. If you do not know how it has been done you can give a go with stud locator. HomeOwnersHub website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. You could use drywall anchors, preferably toggle bolts. Both methods require inserting into a pre-drilled hole. Attaching them to a wall is the best way to avoid accidents. The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes. Then, position your empty bookcase at a point between the wall studs. If you need more details on how to install your kitchen check out this article, written by us as well. Grab your copy now for all the DIY help you need right at your finger tips! This article has been viewed 315,749 times. The standard answer to that immortal question is it depends. 7 Simple Tricks Saved Me Few Hundred Quid Painting a Room, I Will Never Make These Mistakes When Painting my House Again. Appreciate you for sharing! Second of all it will destroy your drywall once loaded with cutlery. Does this same process apply for plaster walls in an older city apartment building? Fixing heavy items to plasterboard walls can be a cause of concern for many homeowners, due to plasterboards' reputation for breaking easily. The wings will open on the other side, and as you tighten the bolt they will pull tight against the other side of your plasterboard, creating a strong hold. All furniture should be secured in areas that have young children using them for support, or areas that are prone to earthquakes or other natural disasters. All Rights Reserved. For the average bookshelf, I believe one will be plenty. I haven't yet started installing my bookshelf, but thanks to this site, I. Required fields are marked *. You can measure the thickness of entire wall by using the pro-tip with little hook I have left above. If you would like more in-depth presentation you can find it here, in the article from DIY Doctor by Mike Edwards. How to Renovate Your Bathroom Quickly and Efficiently I cant even recall how many times across this website we have said that if your house, Bathroom Fixtures Assembly Made Easy, Install it all Like a Pro Bathroom is usually one of the smallest if not the smallest room of the, How to Design a Bathroom in 5 Effortless Steps As we already said if your home had the heart and soul it would be your. Fixing Heavy Game Boards to Walls When not in use - What's the Best Fixings. Do you have a large order or a specific requirement? I've normally come across plasterboard walls that have been skimmed. At the end of the day its not a solid wall of bricks. For more tips, like how to secure an antique bookcase to a wall using Velcro, read on! DIY Doctor has the answer! They are inserted into a pre-drilled hole and secured with a screwdriver, using wings on the back of your plasterboard to secure themselves in place. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Please contact shelvingshop technical department for any fitting and technical advice. Use the spirit level to set it vertical and then mark through the holes with a pencil (or coat hanger wire if the bracket is too thick) to show where you need to make the holes. A great way to attach a heavy item like a TV to a plasterboard wall is by attaching to the wooden studs rather than the plasterboard panels. It should look like a small hook. 02 99976810. For a very good reason it will take the form of four-pointed star. ", "I am really impressed on how simple it is to attach furniture to the wall. Where do I get Velcro that comes with screws? Fitting Kitchen Units on Uneven Walls Has Never Been Easier, How to Renovate Your Bathroom Quickly and Efficiently, Bathroom Fixtures Assembly Made Easy, Install it all Like a Pro, How to Design a Bathroom in 5 Effortless Steps, Tim Faulkner | Drywall Contractor Dallas, Tx. Regular plugs are based on screws which are expanding the plug and as a result can cause a crack. Even plaster walls have studs that you can/should use to secure your brackets. , in the article from DIY Doctor by Mike Edwards. Fixings for heavy shelving to plasterboard? Specialist fixings like Rigifixs are available for installation. It's tempting to suggest you put up a new shelf in your home just to practise your DIY skills and to have something to show off and say, "I did that!" They require a hole to be drilled through both the plasterboard and the solid wall behind it. Finally, use a drill to attach another "L" bracket between the wall and the side of the shelf. 6) Floating shelves will give the best weight capacity when the bracket (s) are fitted to good condition solid brick/cement type walls, or into the studs in a cavity wall if the studs coincide with bracket position and your ideal shelf location on the wall. Electronic stud finders use a type of radar which may react to the lathe behind the plaster in your walls and could be useless. The plastic version of hollow wall anchor. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 315,749 times. Although it seems fragile, plasterboards are indeed pretty resilient, but we should not put too much faith into it. Then, the next step would be to add an extra piece of 12 mm plywood on top of your wall, attached to the studs. Luckily, because its probably also the easiest way. 8) Weight capacity of all shelf brackets will always be dependent on their fixing to the wall, type of wall fixings used and the general condition of the wall that the shelf brackets are being fitted to. 1) Select a longer / larger gauge screw and an equivalent wall plug for extra weight capacity when fitting brackets to masonry walls. Depending on your bracket design, the shelf may need to be fixed on to the bracket, or it may just balance on top. Pro-tip: At the beginning of this article I have formulated a potential question What is the thickness of the wall?. Call us at 01223 491 480 or email office@poldabuilders.com and book a date with us. THE SHELVINGSHOPDOES NOT GUARANTEE OR WARRANTY THE FIXING BY A THIRD PARTY OFANY OF ITS SHELVING BRACKETS OR SHELVING KITS WHICH ARE FIXED TO ANY WALL OR SUBSTRATE, OR FIXED USING INCORRECT HARDWARE OR FIXED OR FITTED BY UNLICENSED TRADESMEN. Using a wood drill bit that is one size smaller than your screws, drill as far as the length of a screw (minus the depth of your bracket). The put the plasterboards back again. Polda Builders do not hold any responsibility for misjudgment of what is sufficient for specific cabinet or quality of fixings. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/Secure-a-Bookcase-to-a-Wall-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Secure-a-Bookcase-to-a-Wall-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/Secure-a-Bookcase-to-a-Wall-Step-1.jpg\/aid5111309-v4-728px-Secure-a-Bookcase-to-a-Wall-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"