How Do You Mount on Plaster?

Mounting items on plaster walls, known for their unique composition, often requires specialized fasteners to ensure a secure hold. One highly effective method, particularly for heavier items, involves the use of Molly bolts.

Plaster walls, typically found in older homes, consist of lath (thin strips of wood) covered with multiple coats of plaster. Unlike modern drywall, which can be less dense, plaster can be brittle and challenging to anchor into without the right technique or hardware.

Utilizing Molly Bolts for Secure Mounting

Molly bolts, also known as hollow wall anchors or expansion anchors, are specifically designed to create a strong anchor point in hollow or brittle materials like plaster. Their design allows them to expand behind the wall surface, providing excellent holding power.

Step-by-Step Installation of a Molly Bolt:

1. Preparation:
   • Identify Location: Choose the desired spot on the wall. Use a stud finder if you want to avoid plaster entirely and hit a stud, which is the strongest option for very heavy items. If no stud is present, a Molly bolt is an excellent alternative.
   • Drill Pilot Hole: Select a drill bit that matches the diameter of the Molly bolt's shaft (excluding the flange). Carefully drill a pilot hole through the plaster. Start with a smaller bit and increase the size gradually if unsure, to avoid cracking.
2. Insert the Molly Bolt:
   • Push Through: Insert the Molly bolt into the pilot hole.
   • Tap It In: As per expert advice, "go ahead and lightly tap in the Molly. Bolt." This ensures the retaining barbs or teeth on the flange bite into the plaster surface, preventing the anchor from spinning when the screw is tightened.
   • Remove Tape: If the Molly bolt came with protective tape over the flange, "Don't forget to remove the tape." This ensures a flush fit against the wall.
3. Expand the Anchor:
   • Tighten Screw: Insert a screw (often provided with the Molly bolt) into the anchor. As you turn the screw, the body of the Molly bolt will collapse or expand behind the plaster, creating a secure "grip." Continue tightening until you feel resistance and the anchor is firmly set.
   • Remove Screw: Once the anchor is set, you can remove the screw. The expanded anchor remains in the wall, ready for your item.
4. Mount Your Item:
   • Align the item you wish to hang with the installed Molly bolt.
   • Insert the screw back into the anchor and tighten it to secure your item.

Alternative Mounting Methods for Plaster Walls

While Molly bolts are robust, other options can be considered based on the weight of the item and specific wall conditions.

• Toggle Bolts: Similar to Molly bolts in function, toggle bolts have "wings" that spread out behind the wall when inserted through a hole. They offer exceptional strength and are ideal for very heavy items. They require a larger pilot hole than Molly bolts.
• Picture Hooks (Nail-In Type): For lighter items like small picture frames, traditional picture hooks with slender nails can work. The nails are designed to enter the plaster at an angle, distributing the weight and minimizing plaster damage. However, they are not suitable for anything beyond lightweight decor.
• Adhesive Hooks/Strips: For extremely light items (e.g., small signs, very light decorations), high-quality adhesive hooks can be a no-drill option. Always check the weight rating and be aware that they can potentially damage paint or plaster when removed if not done carefully.
• Finding Wall Studs: The most secure method for hanging anything heavy on any wall type is to locate the wooden studs behind the plaster. A stud finder will help you locate these solid framing members. Once a stud is found, you can use regular wood screws or construction screws, offering maximum support.

Choosing the Right Fastener

The decision on which fastener to use heavily depends on the weight of the item you intend to hang.

Always consider the condition of your plaster wall. If it's crumbly or in poor repair, even the best anchors may struggle to hold. In such cases, professional repair or alternative wall solutions might be necessary.