What Type of Rawl Plugs or Wall Anchors Should You Use for Different Jobs?
- Adam Cramp
- Sep 13
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 8

The type of rawl plug (also known as wall anchor, wall plug, or dowel) you should use depends on the material of the wall you’re fixing into and the weight of the object you're hanging. Here’s a quick guide:
1. For Plasterboard/Drywall:
Plastic Cavity Wall Plugs: These are the most common plugs used for plasterboard walls. They expand as the screw is tightened, creating a strong hold.
Toggle Bolts or Butterfly Anchors: Best for heavy loads or when there’s no stud behind the plasterboard. These expand inside the wall cavity to distribute the weight evenly.
Self-Drilling Drywall Anchors: Easy to use as they don’t require drilling a pilot hole, just a screwdriver to install them.
2. For Brick/Concrete Walls:
Plastic Rawl Plugs: These are used in solid walls like brick or concrete, offering a secure fit as the plug expands when the screw is inserted.
Nylon or Steel Wall Plugs: For heavier loads, choose nylon or steel plugs for extra strength.
Hammer-in Plugs: These are ideal for brick and block walls. They are hammered in, and as the screw goes in, the plug expands to grip tightly.
3. For Hollow/Porous Walls (like plaster or soft masonry):
Nylon Expansion Plugs: These plugs are suitable for lightweight to medium items and will expand as the screw is tightened.
Frame Fixings: These are also good for hollow walls, providing a secure fit for medium to heavier loads.
4. For Tiles or Glass:
Screw-in Plugs for Tiles: These are designed specifically for drilling through tiles without damaging them. They often come with a special drill bit to avoid cracking the tile.
General Tips:
Choose a rawl plug based on the screw size you will be using. The plug should match the diameter of the screw for a snug fit.
Consider the weight of the item you're hanging. If you’re mounting something heavy, such as a large shelf or TV, it’s better to use metal anc
hors or toggle bolts.
Use a plug that fits the wall material. For example, use concrete plugs for concrete, and drywall plugs for plasterboard.
Do you know what kind of wall you're working with, and how heavy the object is? I can help narrow it down more specifically, please contact us - ajproperty_services@outlook.com




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