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How to install wall hooks

Close-up of a cordless driver screwing in a metal wall anchor screw

Overview

Before you can hang something on the wall, make sure you choose the right hook. Some hooks are for lightweight items and can be drilled directly into the plasterboard. We'll show you how to install a few types of hooks into a plasterboard wall.

Tools and materials

Tools

Materials

Steps

1How to find your wall stud

When installing hooks that are designed to go into plasterboard, a stud finder will help you locate and avoid drilling into the stud in the wall. 

A person holding a stud finder on a plaster wall

2How to install a hook with plastic casing

Start by installing the plastic casing that holds the screw in place. Use a screwdriver or a drill to screw the hook plastic casing directly into the plasterboard. Then screw your hook screw into the casing and you're done. This kind of hook is ideal for lightweight frames to hang.
Close-up of a cordless driver screwing in a nylon wall anchor screw

3How to install a hook with metal casing

For a little more strength, use a metal casing to hang your hook. Just like with the plastic hook casing, screw the metal hook casing into the wall. Then screw your hook screw into the metal casing. This pushes the hook toggle out behind the wall to give it more 
Close-up of a cordless driver screwing in a metal wall anchor screw

4How to install a toggle hook

Pre-drill your hole in the wall, making sure that you avoid the wall stud. Screw the hook into the hole in the wall. The hook toggles will open up behind the plasterboard to securely hold the hook in place.
Close-up of person screwing a spring toggle into a plaster wall

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Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.