Do it yourself home improvement: hanging objects on sheetrock

If you want to take on some home improvements, but find yourself short on cash and time, hanging pictures and other objects on the wall can be just the way to spruce up your home. Yet, as with any home improvement project, it's important to learn about the tools and techniques that are required to get the job done. Read on to learn the correct way to hang objects on sheet rock without causing damage in the process.

Hooks- For occasions when you only want to hang objects for a short time (i.e. the holidays) adhesive backed hooks are ideal. They're strong enough to hold lightweight decorations and objects, and can be removed easily, without causing much damage to the wall. Some of the newer wall hooks are even designed to come down without any damage to painted walls. Just check your local mass merchandiser for a wide variety of options.

Nails- A simple nail is sufficient for hanging light weight picture frames and other small objects on the wall. Just drive the nail directly into the sheet rock, and your object should stay firmly in place without causing much damage to the sheet rock.

Wood screws- For heavier objects, wood screws are the way to go. Locate a stud behind the sheet rock, and drive your wood screw into the stud. This will protect your sheet rock from damage, and ensure that your object is firmly secured to the wall.

Not sure how to locate a stud? Construction standards make it simple. Just measure out from the corner of the room in increments of 16" or 24", (depending on how the home is constructed) and you should have the locations of the studs. To be sure you've got the right location, just tap lightly on the wall, and listen for an area that sounds solid. If you prefer to take a more high tech approach, electronic stud finders are available at most home improvement centers and many other retail stores. Just consult the instruction manual for instructions on how to use the device.

Anchors and toggle bolts- Occasionally you will come across a situation where you want to hang a heavy object, such as a shelf, in an area that does not have any wood studs. In these instances you'll want to use anchors or toggles to distribute the weight of the object, and thus avoid damaging the wall. To use an anchor, simply drill a hole into the sheet rock, and insert the anchor. Then, place a screw into the anchor, and tighten it up.

For toggle bolts, you'll also want to start by drilling a hole into the sheet rock. Then, simply run the bolt through the object you want to hang, insert it into the drilled hole, and tighten it up.

Anchors and toggle bolts come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different thicknesses of sheet rock and different weights of objects. Check out the selection at your local hardware store to find the size that's appropriate for your job.

Now that you know how to hang objects on sheet rock the correct way, it's time to put your knowledge to work. Hang a few new objects on your walls, and you're sure to improve the look of your home.