The Ultimate Screw Anchor For A Reliable Towel Bar

If you're looking to install a towel bar, it's important to consider the type of wall you'll be mounting it on. The best screw anchor will depend on whether you're mounting the towel bar on a stud, drywall, or tile.

Mounting a towel bar onto a stud is the easiest option and requires no additional hardware. However, if you want to install a towel bar in drywall, you'll need to use drywall anchors to securely attach it to the wall.

There are several types of drywall anchors available, including plastic and metal options. Plastic drywall anchors are typically cheaper and easier to install, but they may not be as strong as metal anchors. Metal drywall anchors, such as toggle bolts, can provide a more secure hold and withstand greater weight.

When choosing a drywall anchor, it's important to consider the weight capacity and the ease of installation. Some anchors may also be more suitable for certain wall types or materials.

For example, if you're mounting a towel bar on tile, it's important to use anchors that are specifically designed for tile installation and to follow the correct installation process to avoid cracking the tiles.

Overall, the best screw anchor for a towel bar will depend on the specific requirements of your installation, including the type of wall, weight capacity needed, and ease of installation.

Hollow-wall anchors are not strong enough to support towel bars

The strength of a hollow-wall anchor depends on the size of its spread within the hollow of the wall. However, even with a large spread, these anchors are not strong enough to bear the weight of a damp towel and the force of someone yanking the towel off the bar or leaning on it.

To securely attach a towel bar, it is best to drive the mounting screws directly into wall studs. If this is not possible, you can use stronger anchors, such as molly bolts or toggle bolts, which can hold up to 50 pounds and 30 pounds, respectively. These types of anchors provide a more secure attachment and reduce the risk of the towel bar becoming loose or falling off the wall.

When choosing anchors, it is important to consider the weight of the item being hung and the type of surface the anchor will be installed on. For critical applications, it is recommended to use stronger anchors or alternative mounting methods to ensure safety and durability.

The best way to attach a towel bar is to drive mounting screws into wall studs

To begin the installation process, use a stud finder to locate the wall studs. Mark the desired location for your towel bar, ensuring it is level and aligned with the studs. Pre-drill pilot holes into the studs, then secure the mounting brackets directly to the studs using the provided screws. Finally, attach the towel bar to the mounting brackets. This method ensures that your towel bar has the necessary weight capacity without needing additional wall anchors or toggle bolts.

If you are unable to locate studs in the desired location, you can create a solid backing for the towel bar by cutting a rectangular hole in the drywall, notching the exposed studs, and installing a backing material. This process is more involved but provides a secure foundation for your towel bar.

When choosing a location for your towel bar, consider both convenience and aesthetics. Typically, towel bars are installed near the sink, shower, or bathtub, and at a height of 42 to 48 inches above the floor. However, you may need to adjust the height based on your specific needs and bathroom layout. For example, in a children's bathroom, you might place the towel bar lower for easier accessibility.

By following these steps and driving mounting screws into wall studs, you can be assured that your towel bar will be securely attached to the wall and able to withstand regular use.

How to install a towel bar on drywall

Installing a towel bar on drywall requires some extra steps compared to mounting it directly into wall studs. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you securely install a towel bar on drywall:

Planning and Preparation:

• Choose the desired location for your towel bar. Consider the convenience of hanging towels near the sink, shower, or bathtub.
• Check for wall studs using a stud finder. If studs are available at your desired location, you can mount the towel bar directly into them, skipping the need for drywall anchors.
• If studs are not available or not aligned with your preferred location, you will need to use drywall anchors for a secure installation.
• Determine the type of drywall anchors required. Toggle anchors are highly recommended for mounting towel bars due to their strength and weight-bearing capacity.
• Purchase high-quality drywall anchors with a weight capacity higher than you expect to need. Wet towels can be heavy, so ensure the anchors can withstand the load.

Marking and Drilling:

• Hold the towel bar against the wall at the desired location. Use a level to ensure it is straight, then lightly mark the wall at both ends.
• Measure the distance between the mounting brackets and transfer these measurements to your wall markings.
• If using a template provided with the towel bar, tape it to the wall using painter's tape, ensuring it is level.
• Using the specified drill bit diameter for your anchors, drill the marked holes into the wall.

Installing Anchors and Mounting Brackets:

• Remove the template from the wall, if used.
• Install the drywall anchors into the drilled holes. Ensure they are flush with the wall.
• Screw the mounting brackets into the anchors.

Attaching the Towel Bar:

• Use an Allen wrench to tighten one post to a mounting bracket.
• Slip in the towel bar and position the other post on the mounting bracket.
• Tighten the second post with the Allen wrench, ensuring everything is securely attached.

Final Adjustments and Maintenance:

• Check that the towel bar is level and firmly attached.
• Periodically tighten any visible screws to maintain stability and prevent loosening over time.
• For adjustable bars, ensure all parts are properly aligned and tightened.

Additional Tips:

• If installing the towel bar above a toilet, consider hanging a towel from the bar to determine the ideal height so that the towel doesn't rest on the toilet tank.
• When installing multiple towel bars, allow at least 4 inches of space between them and other fixtures. For double towel bars, space them 12 to 14 inches apart vertically.
• Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap will help maintain the appearance of your towel bar and prevent buildup.

By following these steps and choosing sturdy drywall anchors, you can securely install a towel bar on drywall, ensuring it can withstand regular use and the weight of damp towels.

The best types of drywall anchors for towel bars

Towel bars need to be firmly anchored to the wall or they will loosen and eventually fall off. The best type of drywall anchor for a towel bar will depend on the weight of the towels and the force with which the towels are yanked off the bar.

Hollow-wall anchors

Hollow-wall anchors are great for hanging pictures, framed mirrors, and bulletin boards on drywall. However, they are not strong enough to support heavy loads and are not suitable for items that are regularly jostled and tugged at, such as towel bars.

Wood screws into studs

Wood screws into studs are the best choice for installing a towel bar. The thickness of the bracket, plus the drywall, will determine the length of the screw. Typically, a 1.5" to 2" screw will be used. Longer screws would be even better, except that there is always a concern about wires running through the middle of the studs.

Mounting a piece of wood into studs

The second-best option is to mount a piece of wood into two studs and then use wood screws to mount the towel bar into the wood. The wood can be stained or painted to match the wall or to create a contrast.

Toggle bolts

If studs are not available, toggle bolts are an excellent choice for mounting towel bars in drywall. They can withstand significant weight and provide a secure hold. Choose robust metal toggle anchors, which can withstand 40 pounds of pull when embedded in 1/2-inch drywall.

Expansion anchors

Expansion anchors are designed to hold lightweight items. The anchor's shank is split in half, allowing it to expand and create pressure that locks the anchor in place when a screw is inserted. They are typically made of plastic, nylon, or zinc-coated metal, and can hold between 5 and 25 pounds.

Threaded drywall anchors

Threaded drywall anchors, also known as self-drilling or self-tapping anchors, are made of hard nylon or metal and can hold heavier items. They feature sharp, pointed shanks that can be screwed into the wall without a pre-drilled hole. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

Molly bolts

Molly bolts, or mollies, are metal sleeve-type hollow wall anchors that provide medium-weight holding power. They have a permanently attached shank, but the screw can be removed and reinserted if necessary. They can hold between 25 and 55 pounds and can be used in ceiling drywall for lightweight items.

Heavy-duty toggle bolts

When heavy-duty holding power is required, heavy-duty toggle bolts are the best option. They are the strongest type of drywall anchor and can hold up to 100 pounds. However, they are not the simplest to install, as they require drilling a hole approximately three times wider than the diameter of the bolt.

Plastic winged anchors

Plastic winged anchors are a newer type of drywall anchor that feature plastic "wings" that fold tightly together so the anchor can be inserted into a pre-drilled hole. They have a lower weight capacity than metal toggles, holding up to 20 pounds.

Qualihome Ribbed Plastic Drywall Anchor Kit

The Qualihome Ribbed Plastic Drywall Anchor Kit comes with 201 pieces, including 100 pairs of plastic anchors and screws, plus a drill bit. The anchor shanks are split, allowing them to expand and create a snug attachment when a screw is inserted. The weight capacity is estimated to be around 25 pounds, making it suitable for hanging pictures and small mirrors or attaching small towel or robe hooks.

E-Z Ancor Toggle Lock Drywall Anchors

The E-Z Ancor Toggle Lock Drywall Anchors are a hybrid of self-drilling and toggle-bolt drywall anchors. They feature a strong metal body that cuts through the drywall, and a toggle that pivots and secures in place with the included Phillips-head screw. They have a weight capacity of 100 pounds and are highly resistant to rust, making them ideal for use in bathrooms and other damp areas.

Toggler Snaptoggle BA Heavy-Duty Toggle Bolts

The Toggler Snaptoggle BA Heavy-Duty Toggle Bolts are easy to use and provide impressive holding power. Each toggle has a weight capacity of 238 pounds, making them suitable for supporting TVs, large paintings, mirrors, and other heavy items on drywall. They require a much smaller hole than other anchors with a similar weight capacity.

ConFast Zinc Self-Drilling Drywall/Hollow-Wall Anchor

The ConFast Zinc Self-Drilling Drywall/Hollow-Wall Anchor is a metal version of a self-drilling anchor, which is typically made of plastic. The metal design is more durable and easier to install, and the sharp points don't break off as is common with plastic alternatives. They hold up to 50 pounds and can be used with various drywall thicknesses.

Toggler SnapSkru Self-Drilling Drywall Anchors

The Toggler SnapSkru Self-Drilling Drywall Anchors are made of glass-filled nylon and are rigid enough to screw into drywall without a pre-drilled hole. They have a high weight capacity for a plastic anchor, with the regular anchors rated for up to 79 pounds and the mini anchors holding 65 pounds in 1/2-inch drywall.

Toggler Snaptoggle BB Heavy-Duty Toggle Bolts

The Toggler Snaptoggle BB Heavy-Duty Toggle Bolts are ideal for heavy-duty hanging. They feature plastic tabs and zip straps that allow users to drill the hole, install the anchor, and zip it into place for secure mounting. Unlike winged toggles, these anchors stay in place when the bolt is removed, making them reusable. They have a weight capacity of 265 pounds in 1/2-inch drywall.

How to install a towel bar on tile

Installing a towel bar on tile is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to ensure a sturdy and long-lasting fixture. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a towel bar on tile:

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials, including a towel bar kit, drill, drill bits, screws, a level, painter's tape, and safety gear such as goggles and a dust mask. Decide on the ideal height and location for your towel bar, considering factors such as reachability and ensuring the bar is high enough so that towels don't rest on the toilet tank. Check if the towel bar kit includes a template for marking the mounting holes. If not, create your own template using paper and pencil, or simply mark the wall directly.

Step 2: Marking the Mounting Holes

Use painter's tape to attach the template or your homemade version to the desired location on the wall. Ensure it is level and secure it with additional tape. If installing the towel bar above a toilet, hang a towel to determine the ideal height. Mark the mounting holes on the wall through the template.

Step 3: Drilling and Anchoring

If your towel bar kit doesn't include anchors, purchase some with a weight capacity higher than you expect to need, as wet towels can be heavy. Using the specified drill bit diameter for your anchors, drill the marked holes. For tile, use a tile drill bit and avoid the hammer drill setting to prevent cracking the tile. Start drilling slowly and gradually increase the speed as you go deeper. Cover the tiles you're drilling into with painter's tape to prevent cracks and to make transferring the hole locations easier. Remove the template and gently tap the anchors into the drilled holes.

Step 4: Mounting the Brackets and Towel Bar

Secure the mounting brackets by screwing them into the anchors. Use an Allen wrench to tighten one post to the bracket, then slip in the towel bar, positioning the other post on the mounting bracket before tightening it with the Allen wrench. Ensure the brackets are centred on the tiles to minimise the risk of cracking.

Step 5: Final Checks

Check that the towel bar is level and securely attached before use. Test the sturdiness of the installation by gently pulling on the bar.

Tips and Troubleshooting:

• If possible, mount the towel bar directly into wall studs, as this provides the strongest support.
• If you need to install the towel bar in drywall, use drywall anchors.
• When using drywall anchors, choose anchors with a higher weight capacity than you need to account for the weight of wet towels.
• If you're concerned about the strength of the installation, consider using wood screws into studs or mounting a piece of wood between two studs and then attaching the towel bar to the wood.
• Always wear safety gear, such as goggles and a dust mask, when drilling or cutting.

Frequently asked questions