How to fit and remove a Wall Plug

How to use/fit a wall plug

Although using Wall Plugs is incredibly easy, there are a number of factors to consider to make sure the job is completed correctly.

What you’ll need

·         Detector

·         Drill

·         Drill bit

·         Screws

·         Wall plugs

·         Hammer

Essential safety

As well as using all standard PPE and safety equipment to take on this kind of job, it is vital to check a stud wall to ensure the area of installation is clear before .

Using a multi-detector will help you spot any possible obstructions, including studs, cables and pipes. Failure to do this may result in a number of issues if the drill comes in to contact with any of these elements, including flooding and possible electrocution.

Choosing the correct tools and sizes

Before any work can begin, it is very important to make sure that your drill bit, screws and of course wall plugs are all compatible.

Wall plugs are colour coded to indicate the compatibility of sizes of both the holes created by drill bits and screws, with the most common being:

·         Yellow – screw sizes 4 to 8 and 5mm drill bit hole

·         Red – screw sizes 6 to 10 and 6mm drill bit hole

·         Brown – screw sizes 10 to 14 and 7mm drill bit hole

·         Blue – screw sizes 14 to 18 and 10mm drill bit hole

It is important to note that if you are working with plasterboard and stud walls, opt for wall plugs that are designed specifically for this. When working with masonry walls, the best choice when it comes to drills is a power drill with hammer action, and drill bits that are designed for use in masonry projects.

Step 1:

After checking the wall in the case of stud walls, you can decide where the wall plug will go.

Once you’ve chosen your ideal location, mark the wall with a pencil, using a cross shape to make it easier to locate the central point.

Step 2:

With the drill bit attached to the drill, compare the length of the wall plug to the drill and mark the end of the plug on the drill bit with a piece of tape.

This will ensure that the depth of the hole is accurate, which should be slightly deeper than the end of the wall plug.

Step 3:

Now it is time to drill the hole, if you’re using a combi drill, make sure the drill is set to the hammer setting.

To ensure the perfect drilled hole, hold the drill steady and keep is square to the hole site.

Step 4:

All you need to do now is insert the wall plug in to the wall, ensuring a tight fit for ultimate security.

If the hole has been drilled correctly and the wall plugs you have chosen are the correct size, light manual pressure with a finger is all that will be needed to insert the plug.

Finally, tap the plug lightly using your hammer to ensure the plug is level with the wall.

Once this step is completed, your wall will be ready for the insertion of your screws.

How to remove a wall plug

If you’re removing wall-mounted fixtures, part of the process is removing the wall plugs. Just like the installation of these plugs, removing them is a very simple process.

What you’ll need

·         Pliers

·         A compatible screw

·         A block (material that can withstand pressure)

Step 1:

Insert the screw in to the plug, making sure that the screw is a compatible size with the plug.

Step 2:

Using the pliers, grab hold of the screw, placing the block under the handles of the pliers. Make sure everything is held securely in place to prevent injuries.

Step 3:

Gently tap on the handles of the pliers to prevent damage to the surrounding wall, until the wall plug is fully removed.

Wall plugs are a simple way to securely install wall mounted fixtures in both domestic and commercial environments, and knowing how to correctly fit them and remove them is a simple but very useful skill. You can find wall plugs in our range in a variety of sizes, perfect for any project, from respected brands including Rawlplug and Cobra.