Attatch a Hanging Wall Shelf to Drywall

A hanging wall shelf may be an efficient way to organize your space and obtain more room. The shelf may be attached to any type of wall, including drywall. You may attach the shelf in several ways, depending on the heaviness of the objects you will store on the shelves.

Step 1 – Find the Studs

If you mount the shelves directly to the studs, you can use the electronic stud sensor to find the studs in the walls, as if you place the shelves on the studs, the shelves will be sturdier. Mark the edge of the studs you find. The stud finder will beep or flashes when the device meets the studs. Skip this step if you use anchors, augers or molly bolts.

Step 2 -- Drill Holes

Regardless of the method you use to hang the walls, you require a few holes in the drywall. Drill 2 mounting holes at the level of the studs. If you use molly bolts, anchors or augers, the holes should have the same diameter as the molly bolts or the augers or should be slightly smaller if you use plastic anchors. Measure the size of the shelf and drill the holes at 4 inches from each end. For instance, if the shelf is 32 inches long, drill the holes 24 inches apart. Use the bubble level to ensure that the holes are at the same level. Alternatively, you should check out the number of holes in the shelf mounting hardware and make the required holes.

Step 3 – Insert Anchors, Augers or Molly Bolts

If you mount the shelves to the studs, skip this step.

When it comes to choosing between plastic anchors, augers or molly bolts, you should know that the plastic anchors are the least resistant, while the molly bolts are the sturdiest and will hold the heaviest objects without problems.

A plastic auger comprises screw like fins and these can be inserted directly into the drywall, once you’ve drilled the holes. You may also drill the auger or the anchor in the pre-drilled hole, depending on the type you purchased.

The molly bolts may be inserted into the pre drilled holes using a hammer. Then, you need to turn the screw of the molly bolt clockwise. Remove the screws for the next step, turning these anticlockwise.

Step 4 – Insert Screws

The anchors, augers and molly bolts are meant to hold the screws into place. However, you may choose to mount the hanging wall directly to the studs. Put the shelf mounting hardware at the level of the holes you’ve made and insert the screws. Make sure you tighten all the screws.

Step 5 – Insert Shelves

Insert the shelves on the shelf mounting hardware and secure these using flathead screws. Check if the shelves are sturdy enough and ensure all screws are tight.