So you’ve got your notice board, now what? Here’s a few tips on what to do if you’re new to DIY. It’s not the most comprehensive of tutorials, but it’ll help you on your way to getting your new noticeboard on the wall.
First up, don’t drill directly above or below light switches, plug sockets etc as cables conventionally run vertically up from light switches and down from sockets. Most DIY stores sell sensors to help find electric cables behind a wall, if you’re unsure it might be a cheaper alternative than drilling through 240v. They also detect water pipes below the wall surface. Borrow or buy one.
The biggest question we’re asked is “Where’s my wall fixing kit?”. Well, it’s impossible for us to know what you’re fixing the notice board to, and for this reason many notice boards only come with a basic set of screws and plugs.
Consider what type of wall you are working with – for example, a solid wall or a hollow stud wall – and use appropriate fixings for the weight of the picture or mirror.
Masonry walls will accept some picture hooks and masonry nails. However, for heavier noticeboards, a screw fixing is required with the appropriate size wall plug, to ensure that the weight of the notice board can be supported. A power drill or drill/driver will be required to make the necessary pilot holes.
With stud (hollow) walls, plasterboard is attached to vertical timbers called studs and horizontal timbers called noggings. Locate a timber to screw into and you have a solid fixing for the nail or screw. To hang heavy notice boards or whiteboards on a stud wall you must find fixing positions directly into the studs.
Using two people to hang a notice board is best, as one can hold it in place while the other can stand back and make judgements on height and position. If you want to do the job properly, use a spirit level!