Can You Put A Drywall Anchor In Spackle? (Find Out Now!)

Drywall anchors are used to hang pictures, shelving, mirrors, clocks, and other furnishings and decorations, and these are much sturdier than basic screws, nails, and other mounting fixtures. But can a drywall anchor be used in a wall that’s been filled with spackle? Such is the question this article will answer.

In most cases, drywall anchors aren’t suitable for walls that include spackle, and that’s because spackle is not as sturdy as drywall. Spackle is an ideal filler, one that makes a damaged drywall more attractive. But if you want to securely mount pictures, mirrors, appliances, and other wall fixtures, regular drywall should be used.

When it comes to hanging framed pictures and other wall decorations, drywall anchors are preferred over traditional mounting screws and nails, and that’s because these latter objects—lacking anchors—can slip out of walls easily.

There are numerous kinds of drywall anchors, but they all work in the same way (just about). As the anchor is screwed in, it expands on the interior side of the wall, creating a firm point to which pictures, mirrors, shelving, and appliances can be mounted.

Go ahead and grab a power drill, as you’ll need one to make a pilot hole in the drywall, door, or tile wall. Remember to use a drill bit that’s smaller than the width of the anchor. Drywall anchor manufacturers indicate which drill bits should be used on packaging or in product instructions.

Some drywall anchor kits include drill bits, which means purchasing a kit saves you from having to find an ideal drill bit on your own.

Note: If you’re using toggle bolts or steel hollow wall anchors, you’ll need a pilot hole that’s larger than usual.

Spackle is a kind of drywall filler, one that’s comprised of gypsum and binders. It is thicker than joint compound, and its texture resembles that of toothpaste. Often, premixed spackle is sold in a tub, and there are several different kinds of spackle to choose from.

If you’re looking to get rid of dents, dings, nail holes, and other common drywall blemishes, then using spackle is a good move. Generally, spackle dries faster than joint compound, taking a mere half-hour. As was mentioned already, there are several different kinds of spackle, and the common kinds are listed and explained below.

Generally speaking, drywall anchors are not inserted in spackle, and that’s because most spackles are unable to support these devices. Vinyl and acrylic spackles should, in theory, be able to support anchors, but it’s better to install anchors in solid drywall instead of in spots where drywall has been filled in with spackle.

If you’re worried that a section of wall won’t be able to handle an anchor, get in touch with an expert drywall contractor, as they’ll know what’s best for your situation.