How to Install Toggle Bolts

Toggle bolts are particularly useful for hanging heavy objects on walls that do not have stud support.  They consist of a threaded bolt and a pair of “wings” (i.e. the toggle), which expand once the bolt is installed. Typically, a bracket or hook, on which the object will hang, is run through the bolt. It is a good practice to refrain from hanging furniture directly on the toggle bolt itself.  Instead, it is better to use it only to fix the bracket which will hold the furniture.

Toggle bolts come in different sizes and can be used for both horizontal and vertical installations. Moreover, they are inexpensive and quite easy to mount. All you have to do is complete the steps described in the guide below.

 Step 1 – Select the Right Toggle Bolt

When you are purchasing the toggle bolts, make sure that they will be strong enough to support the hanging furniture. Check the rating of the toggle bolts to see if they will suit your purposes. If the bolts in the local hardware store are not rated, ask the salesperson for advice. There is nothing wrong with taking precautions; after all, you do not want to have your furniture falling down in the foreseen future.

As a rule of thumb, you have to know that the larger the toggle bolt, the greater weight it will be able to carry. Also pay attention to the length of the bolt.  You should buy bolts that are longer than the cumulative thickness of your wall, the toggle, and the bracket or hook you will be using.

Step 2 – Drill Toggle Bolt Holes

With a pencil, mark the places on the wall where you are about to bore holes for the toggle bolts. Check with a level if they stand on the same distance from the floor. To prevent the wall from chipping away while you are working, you may cover the markings with a semi-transparent masking tape. Bore the holes with a power drill (keep in mind that the bit should be rotating clockwise). Once you are done with the drilling, remove the masking tape.

Step 3 – Install the Toggle Bolts

Insert the bracket in the bolt and thread the toggle onto its end. Fold the toggle back and insert it through the wall hole until you feel the wings have opened on the other side of the wall. Pull the bolt back until the wings catch the wall (they should not be twirling while you are fixing the bolt).

Take a screwdriver and screw the bolt in the wall. Before steadying it completely, you have to ensure that the bracket is perpendicular to the floor.

Repeat the procedure for the other toggle bolts and enjoy the fruits of your installation efforts.