Why Your Shelf Fell Down: The Hidden Importance of Using the Right Plasterboard Screws. Tried to put up a shelf recently but failed miserably? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. There have been plenty of people in the past and present, with no doubt others in the future, making the same mistake.
Shelves fail on plasterboard typically because the material is relatively weak and brittle. Consisted of gypsum pressed between paper; it’s not a solid surface. Without proper fixings, screws will simply pull out, and depending on how heavy the shelf is, it’ll often take out a chunk of the wall with it, too.
Here are some contributors to the hidden importance of using the right plasterboard screws for when you next attempt to put up a shelf.
Misunderstanding the wall
Plasterboard is typically attached to studs with empty and hollow spaces in between. By screwing into the hollow part with a standard screw, it ultimately has nothing to grip onto except for a thin and crumbly material.
Drywall isn’t solid like wood or brick. Standard screws and nails will not be able to support the weight, even if it’s fairly light. The best and most secure method is to find the wooden studs behind the plasterboard, as this provides more grip and stability.
Using the wrong screws and fixings
Using standard masonry plastic wall plugs will fail plasterboard. Poor-quality hardware can also contribute to problems with holding significant and lasting loads.
Of course, the main problem is the type of screws that are being used. Shelves typically fall because the individual isn’t using plasterboard screws.
Key factors in shelf failure
There are a number of key factors that contribute to shelf failure. These include the following.
Overloading the anchor
Every anchor has a maximum load capacity. It’s important to be aware of what this maximum load will be so that you’re not risking the shelf falling off due to weight.
Over-tightening
Driving screws too hard can cause the plasterboard to shatter around the hole, and that makes it impossible for the anchor to grip as a result.
Dynamic loading/vibration
If the shelf is in a high-traffic area or you’re adding or removing items constantly, this creates dynamic loading, which shakes screws loose over time.
The correct approach
If you’re looking to prevent future failures from happening when you next attempt to put up a shelf. Try the following:
Use toggle bolts or cavity wall anchors
Toggle bolts or cavity wall anchors are the best for spreading the load over a larger area behind the wall, and so are recommended to use when putting up a shelf, especially if you’re putting a lot of weight onto it.
Check load capacity
Ensure your chosen anchors are rated for the total weight of the shelf, as well as any items you plan to put on it.
Locate studs
Use a stud finder to ensure you find at least one support that’s anchored directly into the wooden stud.
Use the right screws
The right screws are paramount to use too, so make sure you check you’ve got the right ones before moving ahead.
Fixing a shelf can be easy enough, so long as you know the proper approach when it comes to fixing it to a plasterboard.
