Question 1

How much weight can drywall hold without an anchor?

Accepted Answer

About 5–10 lbs with a nail alone. A small picture frame on a nail is fine, but anything heavier needs a proper anchor or — even better — a screw driven into a wall stud.

Question 2

What’s the difference between a toggle bolt and a molly bolt?

Accepted Answer

Toggle bolts use spring-loaded wings that open behind the wall and grip a large area — they’re the strongest option for hollow walls. Molly bolts use a metal sleeve that expands as you tighten the screw. They’re medium strength but reusable: you can remove and reinsert the screw without losing the anchor.

Question 3

Can I use plastic anchors for a TV mount?

Accepted Answer

No. TVs create significant leverage force because the weight sits far from the wall. Plastic anchors can pull out. Use snap toggle bolts rated for the weight, or mount directly into wall studs with lag bolts.

Question 4

How do I know what kind of wall I have?

Accepted Answer

Knock on the wall: a hollow sound means drywall, a solid sound suggests plaster or masonry. Homes built before 1950 often have plaster and lath. You can also push a thumbtack in — it slides into drywall easily but won’t penetrate plaster or concrete.

Question 5

What size drill bit do I need for a drywall anchor?

Accepted Answer

Check the anchor packaging — it lists the recommended bit size. Generally the bit should match the anchor body diameter (not the screw). Self-drilling anchors need no pre-drilling.