To hang decorations on plaster walls, especially heavier items, it's best to use specialized anchors designed to grip behind the plaster and lath rather than relying on the plaster itself.
Hanging items on traditional plaster and lath walls can be challenging because plaster is brittle and can crumble easily, unlike drywall which is more consistent. Simple nails or screws often won't hold much weight and can damage the wall.
Instead of using basic fasteners, you should use plaster anchors made of metal like a molly bolt or a toggle bolt. These anchors expand or toggle open behind the wall surface, providing a secure grip on the lath. Be sure to use one that's long enough to get behind the plaster and lath.
When drilling into plaster, you'll need to use a masonry bit. Standard wood or metal bits can struggle and potentially crack the plaster.
For hanging pictures and decorations weighing between 25 and 50 pounds, Molly bolts and toggle bolts are ideal.
Here's a breakdown of common methods derived from best practices for plaster:
-
For Lightweight Items (under 10 lbs):
- Adhesive hooks (ensure the plaster surface is clean and stable).
- Small picture hooks specifically designed for plaster (use carefully to avoid cracking).
-
For Medium to Heavy Items (25–50 lbs, as per reference):
- Molly Bolts (Sleeve Anchors): These metal anchors expand a sleeve behind the plaster when the screw is tightened.
- Toggle Bolts: These have wings that toggle open behind the wall when pushed through the hole. They are excellent for heavier loads but require a larger hole than molly bolts.
Steps for Using Metal Plaster Anchors (Molly or Toggle Bolts):
- Mark the Spot: Decide where you want to hang your decoration.
- Drill the Hole: Use a masonry bit of the appropriate size for your chosen anchor. Drill slowly and steadily to minimize chipping the plaster.
- Insert the Anchor:
- For Molly bolts, tap the ribbed head flush with the wall surface.
- For Toggle bolts, insert the bolt through the item you are hanging (or its wire), then squeeze the wings closed and push the bolt through the hole until the wings spring open behind the wall.
- Secure the Item:
- For Molly bolts, insert the screw into the anchor and tighten until it feels secure.
- For Toggle bolts, pull back slightly on the bolt to seat the wings against the back of the wall, then tighten the nut or screw to secure the item.
Choosing the Right Anchor:
Consider the weight of the item you are hanging and the condition of your plaster walls. Always err on the side of using a stronger anchor if unsure.
| Anchor Type | Ideal Weight Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Molly Bolt | 25-50 lbs | Expands behind the wall; requires proper drill size. |
| Toggle Bolt | 25-50 lbs (or more depending on size) | Wings open behind the wall; requires larger drill hole. |
| Adhesive Hook | Very Lightweight | Surface must be clean and stable; not for valuable or heavy items. |
| Small Plaster Hook | Lightweight | Can be finicky; use with caution to avoid cracking. |
By using appropriate metal plaster anchors like molly bolts or toggle bolts and the correct drill bit, you can safely hang most decorations on plaster walls.
