3 Essential Steps for a Successful Wall Mounting Project

Mounting wall décor doesn’t have to be intimidating — but let’s face it, it often is. Choosing the wrong hardware or not understanding your wall type can lead to frustrating or even disastrous results. Whether you’re hanging a picture frame, TV, or shelf, following a few key steps will make all the difference.

1️⃣ Choose the Right Hardware

Using the wrong hardware is the number one cause of wall mounting failures. Have you ever seen someone hang an object, step back slowly, and hold their breath, hoping it doesn’t fall? That’s usually a sign the wrong anchor or screw was used.

Different wall anchors are designed for different weights and wall types. For example: – Plastic wall anchors are best for light loads (10 lbs or less) on drywall. – Toggle bolts or molly bolts can handle medium to heavy loads in hollow walls. – Masonry screws or sleeve anchors are ideal for concrete or brick walls.

💡 Pro Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s load recommendations before drilling. Mounting a large mirror or TV with plastic anchors is a recipe for disaster.

2️⃣ Identify Your Wall Type

Before you start, you need to know what kind of wall you’re working with. Here’s how to tell:

Drywall (Sheetrock)

• Most common in modern homes.
• Smooth or slightly textured surface.
• Sounds hollow when tapped.

Plaster Walls

• Found in older homes (pre-WWII).
• Heavier, harder surface applied by hand.
• Feels solid when tapped — your knuckles might even hurt!
• Built over lath boards, which provide structure and support.

Paneling or Plywood

• Lightweight and flexible, but not very strong.
• Not ideal for heavy mounts without reinforcement.

Concrete, Brick, or Stone Walls

• The strongest and most durable.
• Require a hammer drill and masonry bit to drill into.
• Watch out for mortar joints — they’re softer than the stone itself.

Understanding your wall type helps you pick the right fastener and prevents costly mistakes.

3️⃣ Match Hardware to Wall and Weight

Once you’ve identified your wall, match your hardware accordingly. Each type of anchor or fastener has strengths and weaknesses. The goal is simple: choose an anchor that supports both your wall type and the weight of your décor.

By narrowing your options from 25 types of anchors down to about 5 that truly fit your wall, you’ll save time, frustration, and potential damage.

🧰 Final Thoughts

Even if you’re not a pro, you can still hang décor like one — especially with the right tools. When you combine the correct hardware with a clear understanding of your wall type, your mounting success rate skyrockets.

But if you want to double your confidence and skip the guesswork entirely, check out EZ Mount Plus — the patent-pending wall mounting tool that lets you hang pictures, TVs, shelves, and more without a tape measure or level.

Finish your projects faster, cleaner, and straighter — because your walls deserve better.