Which wall plug size is suitable for heavy loads?
The size of the wall plug you use depends greatly on the type of wall and the weight of the load you want to support. As a rule of thumb: the heavier the load, the larger the wall plug should be.
For very heavy loads, you can usually use wall plugs with a diameter between 12 and 16 mm. A wall plug of this size is typically capable of supporting loads of up to 120 kg. But there are other factors to consider:
- Wall material: Not every wall can support heavy loads. Caution is advised with noticeably thin or flimsy walls, as well as in older buildings with porous plaster. Drywall and lightweight partition walls require special wall plugs.
- Screw size: The size of the wall plug should match the screw. If the screw is too thick, it can split the wall plug. If it is too thin, it will not hold in the wall plug.
- Distance from the wall edge and between wall plugs: To avoid cracks in the wall, you should maintain at least 5 cm from the wall edge and at least ten times the wall plug diameter between wall plugs.
In general, for heavy loads it is advisable to consult a professional to ensure that the wall can safely support the load and that the correct wall plugs and screws are used.