Can You Screw into Plaster

Screws are your ultimate option for hanging things on plaster walls without picture rail. For lighter items, screwing into the plaster with a 1 1/4” drywall screw can get the job done. For heavy items, you can opt screws with masonry anchors.

Is it safe to drill into a plaster wall?

Hanging items on plaster almost always involves drilling a hole first, since nails may not penetrate the thick surface and they tend to leave cracks if they do make it through the plaster. Drilling a hole in plaster safely prevents cracking around the hole area while minimizing the amount of plaster dust kicked up.

Can you use screw anchors in plaster?

When drilling into plaster, it is highly recommended to use a wall anchor. Wall anchors ensure that your screws for plaster wall hold properly and don’t break the plaster around them.