How to Use Cavity Toggle Bolts for Heavy Wall Mounting when You can't find an Anchor

Posted by Ali Daly on 19th Sep 2023

How to Use Cavity Toggle Bolts for Heavy Wall Mounting when You can't find an Anchor

Welcome to the inaugural blog post of our #TheDalyDose campaign! Our journey kicked off with an engaging TikTok explainer video, giving you a quick snapshot of how to use cavity toggle bolts. 

As it's the first-ever video in our post-launch campaign, we wanted to make sure we chose a topic that could offer both practical value and set the tone for what's to come. Now, we're here to build on that momentum with a comprehensive guide that elaborates on everything you need to know about cavity toggle bolts.

If you found our TikTok video informative, then buckle up! This blog post takes it to the next level, offering step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and even some common pitfalls to avoid. And don't forget—Ali's video tutorial, featured at the end, provides a visual run-through of the entire process for all you visual learners out there.

Let's dive right in!

How to Use Cavity Toggle Bolts: A Step-by-Step Guide

    1. Choose the right cavity toggle bolts. Cavity toggle bolts are available in a variety of sizes and weight capacities. Be sure to choose bolts that are the right size for the object you are mounting and that have a weight capacity that is greater than the weight of the object.
    2. Drill a hole in the wall. The hole should be the same diameter as the toggle bolt shank. Use a power drill with a masonry bit to drill the hole.
    3. Fold the toggle wings. Cavity toggle bolts have two metal wings that fold flat against the shank of the bolt. Fold the wings before inserting the bolt into the hole.
    4. Insert the bolt into the hole. Push the folded toggle wings through the hole until the wings unfold on the other side of the wall.
    5. Tighten the bolt. Use a screwdriver or wrench to tighten the bolt until the toggle wings are snug against the back of the wall.
    6. Mount the object. Once the bolt is secure, you can mount the object to the wall.


    Here are some expert tips for using cavity toggle bolts

    • Make sure the wall is thick enough to support the weight of the object you are mounting. Cavity toggle bolts should not be used in walls that are less than 1/2 inch thick.
    • Use a level to ensure that the hole is drilled straight. If the hole is not drilled straight, the toggle bolt will not be able to support as much weight.
    • Do not overtighten the bolt. Overtightening the bolt can damage the drywall or plasterboard and reduce the weight capacity of the anchor.
    • If you are mounting a heavy object, consider using two or more cavity toggle bolts. This will distribute the weight more evenly and reduce the risk of the anchor failing.

    Common mistakes to avoid when using cavity toggle bolts for heavy wall mounting:

    • Using the wrong size cavity toggle bolts.
    • Drilling a hole that is too small or too large.
    • Not folding the toggle wings before inserting the bolt into the hole.
    • Overtightening the bolt.
    • Mounting a heavy object to a wall that is too thin.

Expert Tip: Always double-check the weight capacity of your cavity toggle bolts. This ensures that they can adequately support the weight of the object you’re hanging.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Do not overtighten the bolt; doing so can compromise the strength of the drywall and the bolt itself.

For a more detailed visual guide, don’t miss our quick video tutorial featuring Ali, who takes you through the entire process.

How to Use Cavity Toggle Bolts for Heavy Wall Mounting when You can't find an Anchor - YouTube


What’s Next?

Ready to take the worry out of wall mounting? Get your cavity toggle bolts from us today and make securing heavy objects a breeze. For a selection of reliable cavity bolts,  click here to visit our online store. If you have any questions or run into any issues, we’re always here to help. Don't hesitate to reach out!