How to Hang Pictures on Plaster Walls

A picture is worth a thousand words. How are you using them on the walls of your home?

If you own an older home, you might have plaster walls. This means your picture-hanging technique will look a little different. Reference these tips when tackling this project.

Drywall versus plaster walls

You might be wondering, “What are plaster walls, anyway? Are they different from regular drywall?”

The answer is “yes.” One is not necessarily better than another, though. Here are some of the more important differences between the two.

• Plaster walls tend to crack and crumble when hammered.
• Plaster walls are a much older style of wall construction. They’ve been used since ancient times!
• Drywall is more common now and typically less expensive.
• Drywall installation is typically less labor intensive.

Hanging pictures on plaster walls

Ready to hang your pictures? If you have plaster walls, follow these general guidelines:

• For pictures weighing less than five pounds, use an adhesive hook or Velcro strip. This method makes for easy removal.

• For pictures weighing five to 10 pounds, drive your nail or hook at a downward angle into the wall.

• For pictures weighing more than 10 pounds, sink your screw anchor into the wall. Heavy pictures will need support from a stud.

Refresh your room

Has your successful picture hanging inspired you to do more? Try one of these impactful updates.

• Give your plaster walls a fresh coat of paint before hanging your pictures. Or, try an accent wall!
• Replace an old brass fixture, like that wobbly, old ceiling fan, with a new, more modern one. It can change the entire feel of the room!
• Install insulated glass units (IGUs) to maintain consistent and desirable room temperature.
• Build custom cabinetry for books, photo frames, and other décor.
• Refresh your room by giving it a deep clean.

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