How to Securely Hang Heavy Objects

  • 1-2 hours
  • Beginner
  • 5-20

Have you ever hung a picture or other object on the wall only to have it come crashing down within a few hours? If so, chances are it wasn't properly hung. Did you take into consideration the weight of the object you were hanging and the type of wall you were hanging it on? Did you search out the wall studs to assure that the object you were hanging would remain secure?

Hanging Objects on Walls

Before you decide to hang any type of object on a wall, the weight and wall type must be carefully considered. You can't just grab your toolbox, fish out a couple of nails or screws, hang the object on the wall and expect it to stay there, because it won't. There is a wide range of tools that are produced to keep objects securely in place when hung. They include anchors of metal or plastic, screws and wall plugs. Each one of these is manufactured with a specific job in mind. If you don't use the proper tools for hanging that antique mirror, chances are it won't survive when it crashes to the floor.

How to Hang a Framed Picture

If you have a picture that weighs 20 pounds or less, hanging it is quite simple. You won't need screws, studs or plastic wall plugs. What you will need is a thin nail and a picture hook that were specifically produced and rated for the weight of your picture. Attach the back to the thin nail and gently tap it into the wall.

For large pictures that weigh 20 pounds or less, use the same method but use two or three hooks. This distributes the weight evenly over a larger area of the wall.

How to Hang a Plasma TV

After purchasing a plasma TV, your certainly don't want it to come crashing down once it's hung. Plasma TVs weigh between 75 and 150 pounds. They usually come with brackets that are designed to mount the unit on the wall. Be sure to check the brackets carefully. They are not always of top quality and may not hold your new TV securely. If you have any doubt, head to the hardware store to look for a high quality bracket.

Before you leave home, weigh and measure your plasma TV. Measurement and weight are very important when selecting brackets for hanging something of this size. Seek out knowledgeable staff at the store who can assist you in selecting the proper brackets for the job.

Once you have purchased the proper brackets, make an assessment of the area where you wish to hang your new TV. If possible, hang the brackets to span two studs. Drill into the studs and install the brackets. Remember to use a level to assure the brackets line up so you TV will be straight when mounted.

If it's impossible to use two studs, cut a 2 x 4 section of sturdy wood that is long enough to span two studs. Determine the height at which you wish to hang the TV and screw the piece of wood fast to the studs. Once this job is complete, place the brackets over the area and secure them to the piece of wood as well as one of the studs. By going the extra mile, you can be assured that your new plasma TV will remain securely on the wall.

How to Hang a Large Cabinet

When large cabinets mounted on a wall are full of books or other items, they often weigh between 150 and 300 pounds. That's a lot of weight, and you'll want to be sure the cabinet is secure. If it falls, not only will it be ruined but it could cause serious injury to a human or a beloved pet.

If the cabinet will be sitting on the floor and the weight is sheer, you will only need to stabilize it. To do this, install several large screws right into a stud. Number eight screws work perfectly if you live in the U.S. This type of screw will assure the cabinet is secure.

If you plan to install the cabinet using expansion anchors, you will have to reinforce the drywall by the same method as was explained above to hang a plasma TV. Because the cabinet is so heavy, use three horizontal wood pieces. One should be installed at the top, another in the middle and the final one on the bottom of the cabinet. Then screw the cabinet to the wall directly into the studs. This will keep the cabinet in place without fear of it toppling.

Use the tips in this article to hang pictures, TVs and cabinets to the walls of your home. Using the proper method to hang items will ensure a safe environment and much enjoyment for you and your family for years to come.