How to drill into my walls?

Question

It appears that it is plaster on top and a solid wood underneath, this is the best that I can describe it. Any place I try to drill into hits the same construction; it's like studs are all over it. I mean ANY place in the wall. I have already broken one drill bit. I can only pound nails into it.

Thus, I am unable to hang items with screws and plastic anchors, like I did in another place that I used to live in (built in the 1950's). I'm ready to give up but thought I'd post on this site and see what happens.

Any ideas are welcome.  Thanks for reading this.

Country Design Home · Answer

We were just hanging some shelves in my daughter's condo and came across this issue- except instead of wood we were hitting concrete block. So the anchors did not work, but drilling into the concrete did. You won't need anchors if the holes you drill or pound into are secure.

The Garden Frog with C Renee · Answer

for hanging pictures and such I would use the command hooks and picture hangers. And as for breaking drill bits, then I suggest getting the better drill bits- there is a huge difference between a cheap Black&Decker drill than a Rigid Drill bit which is made to go through wood-steel. In plaster walls anchors really are not going to work. The command hooks really work and make sure to get the hooks that hold more weight- they are a bit more expensive but let's say you want to hang a 1/2lb pic do not buy the 1/2 lb hook buy the hook for the next weight up. I learned a lesson so now I always buy the bigger hook. hope this helps. and if you do drill through the plaster you need to make sure you are securely on a stud not just the slats because anything heavy can crack the plaster. good luck

Jane · Answer

Plaster walls generally have what is called lath behind it used as the base. It is thin wood nailed up to hold the plaster. When you drill into plaster it helps to put a piece of tape down on plaster area you are drilling. It helps keep the plaster from cracking. Drill a hole and use anchors to support what ever you are hanging.

Katherine · Answer

Are you able to take a section out somewhere, say. A closet to see what you are dealing with?  I could also be cement block walls,  that is what we have in our condo.   Maybe a masonry bit would help. B

Anna Banana · Answer

Thanks for your reply. Plastic anchors did work in my old place, also plaster but there was no wood underneath it. That's the difference. I was still able to hang the picture with the nails and picture hangers.

Will look into Ridgid drill, however there's a little difference in price; both can be considered 'cheap' from your standpoint

Johnchip · Answer

You can drill through anything. (and bits do break, so get over it) It is the strength of the drill and bits that will be the rule. Unfortunately they are not cheap investment, but well worth it in the end for a long term homeowner. (or borrow one from a good friend, just never lend yours out!)You can also rent them for a weekend if you get organized as to what and where you want to drill.

Anna Banana · Answer

Thanks everyone for taking your time to reply.  I am going to practice on a scrap piece of wood with titanium coated drill bits and plenty of patience.

How to drill into my walls?

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How to drill into my walls?

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