Hanging pictures is one of the most affordable ways to spruce up your home.
Choosing the best nails for hanging pictures is crucial since you must ensure they stay secured to the wall.
Many nail types are available, depending on the material, type, and weight capacity.
How to choose the best nails for hanging pictures?
First, you need to consider the type of wall you have. Different construction materials such as drywall, masonry, and paneling will have different requirements regarding nails. In this post, we share everything you need to know about choosing the proper nails for your project. Once you go through practical tips, you will easily hang and secure your picture frames!
Best Nails For Hanging Pictures on Your Walls:
Finish nail
A finishing nail is the best option for hanging pictures. When removed, it won’t create a large hole in the wall, so there is minor damage compared to other methods. If you want to fill the gap, you can simply spread spackling paste and distribute it evenly with a putty knife. In addition, the nails are straightforward to install.
When choosing the best nails for hanging pictures, you should have the object’s weight on your mind. You can use a finish nail for hanging lightweight frames. You can choose a 1 ½ inch or 2-inch nail for this purpose, as it will provide enough support. However, there is one thing to have in mind when placing the nail. You would want to hammer it into the wall at a steep angle for maximum strength. This trick will enhance the holding power and ensure your picture frame stays in place. These nails are ideal for paneling, drywall, and plaster. If you hang a heavier picture, you need to make sure to attach the nail to the stud for the best weight distribution.
Bear claw screws
If you are looking for easy installation, you can quickly establish the double-headed piece without drilling. The bear claw screws are ideal for plaster, drywall, wood, masonry, brick, and concrete. The sturdy screw provides additional support, making the bear claws ideal for heavier frames.
Picture hanging hooks
The picture-hanging hooks come in various shapes and sizes so that you can find the right fit for your project. They can be used for hanging pictures and mirrors, coming with a nail and a matching hook for easy installation. If the object is heavy, make sure to use heavy-duty hooks to secure it. The hooks are ideal for use on paneling and drywall.
Hammer drive anchor
If you are working with a sturdy surface, then a hammer drive anchor is one of the best nails for hanging pictures. This method is ideal for hanging frames on bricks and concrete. You need to drill a hole, secure the anchor to the wall, and fasten the nail. However, there is one downside to installing a hammer drive anchor. Once you secure the anchor into the wall, you can’t remove it easily without making a large hole. Therefore, you would want to avoid this hanging method if the picture is somewhat temporary.
Drywall anchor
Hanging pictures on drywall can be too challenging. The material itself is weak and might not withstand the weight of objects. The gypsum is likely to crumble when you try to insert a nail in it. When the material crumbles, the nail won’t be securely attached. With this, the object you hang might fall.
Therefore, you need to use a special drywall anchor to secure the pictures. This anchor is specially designed to attach various things to drywall, such as picture frames, shelves, mirrors, and clocks. The anchors will spread within the drywall and fasten securely with pressure. The drywall anchors come with different strengths so that you can choose the right fit for your needs. The weight it can bear is indicated on the package, so make sure to check it. You would want to select the holding power that matches the picture you want to hang or exceeds it.
Nails or screws?
Both nails and screws can be used for securing pictures on the wall. Nails come with a smooth surface and are ideal for lightweight frames. You don’t need additional support when hanging a light object, as the nail can bear the weight. For enhanced holding power, make sure to hammer the nail at a 30-degree angle. This simple step will increase the strength and help you securely attach the picture frame.
On the other hand, screws are used for heavier objects due to the firmer grip. The screw will stay in place and secure the picture from falling. Therefore, it is ideal for glass framed pictures that can break if they fall.
If you install screw-on drywall, attaching it to the stud is better. Otherwise, the object’s weight can pull the screw from the crumbled gypsum. How to make sure you secure the screw onto a stud? You can simply perform a sound test, where you can gently tap with a hammer and listen to the sound. Identify the area that doesn’t sound too hollow and secure your screw there.
Choose the proper nail for the wall type
A finish nail is enough to secure a lightweight frame if you work with drywall. However, you should opt for screws or anchors if your picture is heavy. Also, it would be best to be cautious when attaching nails to masonry. The bricks can crack when you try to hammer the nail, causing damage. You will need a screw and a suitable drilling method to secure the picture for this construction material.
No matter which type of wall you work with, make sure to distribute the weight in case of heavy frames evenly. Use more than one securing point, in this case, to make sure the picture stays secure.
Final thoughts
Choosing the best nails to hang pictures requires understanding the picture weight and wall type. Remember to secure any nails or screws on the timber stud when working with drywall. In addition, always check the specifications to see if the weight limit corresponds to your particular project.