I'm trying to install some heavy shelves on my drywall but it feels like I might be hitting lath instead of studs. I drill through the drywall, hit a small gap, and then I feel like I'm just putting screws into some weak wood where they don't seem to grip. The issue is I can't locate any studs, and even if I could, I need to drill in specific spots that don't align with them. I'm not sure I can use the anchors I have either. Can anyone share advice on how to tackle this?
3 Answers
I had a similar issue hanging my TV. I ended up making a small square from 3/4-inch plywood and attaching that to the studs first, then attaching my TV mount to the plywood. You can paint the plywood to match the wall, so it doesn’t stand out. In your case, if it’s really heavy and you can't use the studs, you may need to open the wall and add some framing, which I know sounds like a big job but could be necessary for safety.
First off, how heavy are those shelves? If you really can't find any studs, it might help to drill holes at a heavy angle and use a stiff wire, like an old coat hanger, to locate the studs. Once you've found them, measure out from the wall and drill test holes. If it's a big project, consider building a support structure behind the wall for added strength later on. That way you're not just relying on the drywall.
Toggle bolts can be a lifesaver in situations like this! The snap toggles are super easy to install, just make sure the wall can handle the weight. If the wood feels weak, you might need a secondary support system. If all else fails, attaching a board that spans across known stud locations might be the way to go—it allows you to mount your shelves without worrying too much about aligning with every stud.
Good to know! I have toggle bolts but wasn’t certain about the support. I’ll give this a shot.
That sounds like a smart plan! Just have to figure out if I wanna go through all that work.