fixing threaded rod into plasterboard hollow wall

by **damianfennell** » Wed Jan 07, 2009 2:58 pm

I know all the fixings you can buy for setting screws into a plasterboard hollow wall - but I want to mount some M6 threaded rod into a hollow wall!

I'm a sculptor and I've done a range of wall-mounted sculptures that project off the wall. I've designed a fixing system for brick walls that works perfectly - expanding bolt in the brick with threaded rod sticking out. A metal sleeve coming out the back of the sculpture slides over the threaded rod and, without giving away too many of my trade secrets, you have a really smart-looking fixing to the wall and a sculpture that free floats off it.

The trouble is, some people don't have solid walls!! Has anyone got a genius idea? The sculptures aren't v heavy, but of course because they project out nearly 10cm there's a bit of downward moment force on the fixing.

by **the specialist** » Thu Jan 08, 2009 5:22 pm

Hi,

Can I ask is the stud wall free standing or is it in front of a masonry wall?

In any event have you considered fixing directly into the timber studs?

Aidan

by **damianfennell** » Fri Jan 09, 2009 2:52 pm

No it's not in front of a masonry wall - got solution for that scenario already.

The trouble with fixing into the timber studs is you're limited in where you position the piece. With something like a sculpture I feel it's important to have complete control over where you place it...

by **the specialist** » Fri Jan 09, 2009 7:38 pm

Ok.

I can't honestly think of an easy solution. The obvious destructive one is to remove some plasterboard and fix noggins or a patress and reboard and skim. I guess you already thought of that and assume you would prefer to avoid it. I would be interested and impressed if someone has the answer.

Good luck.

by **damianfennell** » Sat Jan 10, 2009 9:22 pm

Thanks for giving it careful thought anyhow. I think chopping out a section of plasterboard is prob a bit too intrusive for most clients...

by **swidders** » Sun Jan 18, 2009 11:35 pm

You could use some spring toggle plasterboard fixings with similar thread - remove the screws provided and replace with your m6 rod or cut the head of the screw off and use this as your rod (i assume the sculptures are fixed to these with plaster of paris or no nails adhesive in the holes)

You could then use a washer and nut to create the necessary clamping effect on the face of the wall - the washer could be made large enough to allow for the weight torque.

This means that the holes will only have to be big enough to push the toggles through and you may have to sculpt out a deep enough recess from the back of your objet d'art to allow for the nut and washer.

Hope it helps.

by **TheDoctor5** » Mon Jan 26, 2009 9:56 am

Last year 64% of the questions asked in our forum were answered within our DIY project pages at www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects.htm The project pages are now separated alphabetically and your answers are accompanied by diagrams and the ability to see, and buy, the tools and/or required to complete your project. Use our search box to look for your answer and save a great deal of time and money!