AHD Blog
How to Use a Screw Anchor
Whether you’re installing a handrail or a large picture frame, one thing is certain: Careful hanging will save you a major headache down the line. While a loosely hung picture frame can lead to a big mess, a loosely hung handrail can be dangerous, especially for individuals with mobility issues. For that reason, we include screw anchors with all of the handrails available in our online store. These handy devices are helpful when hanging light- to semi-heavy objects, allowing you to securely hang items virtually anywhere without looking for a stud in your wall. However, it’s crucial to learn how to use a screw anchor properly before you install your handrail.
How to Use a Screw Anchor
When Do I Need a Screw Anchor?
Screw anchors are helpful because they allow you to hang items virtually anywhere on your wall without being bound to wall studs, which are typically about 16 inches apart. These anchors expand, clenching into the wall as you install a screw. This, in turn, creates a solid anchor point for secure hanging. Screw anchors can also help prevent the weight of your handrail from pulling nails or screws out of the wall, which can create large holes and, more importantly, serious safety hazards.
How Do I Use a Screw Anchor?
Screw anchors are easy to use, but it’s important to use them properly to prevent damage to your wall. There are a few easy steps to take when using a screw anchor:
- First, mark your exact hanging point with a pencil.
- Then, take a nail-set, awl, or nail. With a hammer, tap a beginning hole into the wall, making it smaller than the anchor to help guide the anchor into the wall.
- From there, place the anchor over the hole, tapping it until it’s flush with the wall.
- Now you’re ready to install your screw, which the anchor will hold securely in the wall.
As with any home improvement project, there are a few safety precautions to keep in mind when using a screw anchor. First, don’t install a screw anchor next to an outlet or a plug, as this could lead you to hit wiring. Also, if you’re installing screw anchors in or a near a bathroom, keep faucet placement in mind – you don’t want to hit a water pipe. If you’re worried about the hazards associated with using a screw anchor, it’s best to work with a professional.
Using Screw Anchors for Your Handrail
Our handrails are a serious safety asset for any home or business, which is why all of our handrails come equipped with screw anchors for easy installation:
For more information on our handrails, be sure to browse our online catalog. In the meantime, if you misplace one of the screw anchors that accompanied your handrail, don’t despair. Screw anchors are rated by weight, so it’s easy to find a replacement screw anchor for your project. You can find a replacement screw anchor at any local hardware store:
- Light duty plastic anchors: Items under 10 pounds
- Medium duty self-drilling anchors: Between 10 and 25 pounds
- Heavy duty molly bolts: Between 25 and 50 pounds
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Now that you know how to use a screw anchor, you’re ready to order one of our reliable, easy-to-install handrails. Our handrails are a great asset for any home or business, offering both safety and aesthetic value.
At Aluminum Handrail Direct, we’re committed to providing high-quality aluminum handrails that are durable, maintenance-free, affordable, and attractive. If you have questions about how to use a screw anchor or are searching for a handrail system that is perfect for your needs, visit our online store today.
