A common problem encountered when remodeling is removing the wall anchors used for mounting shelves, racks and accessories. If they can’t be covered with new accessories then you either need to pull them out (which has its own complications) or hide them. Fortunately there is an easy way to hide them so that they are virtually invisible.
What You Will Need To Hide Your Unused Wall Anchors
- Hammer
- Philips Screwdriver
- Crack Filler or Drywall Compound
- Sandpaper – 180 Grit
Hiding Your Unused Wall Anchors
Once you have removed the screw from the wall anchor, you’re left with the plastic or metal anchor stuck beneath the surface of the wall. Before you try to cover it up, its worth trying to grab it with a long nosed pliers first to try to pull it out. If it is stuck or there’s no easy way to grab it then you’ll need to cover it up.
First you will need to sink the head of the wall anchor below the surface of the wall. To do this, seat the tip of the screwdriver over the centre of the wall anchor. Now hammer the screwdriver lightly so that the anchor is pushed deeper into the wall. Eventually you want the top of the anchor to be about 2mm (1/8″) below the surface of the wall. Be careful not to hammer too hard as the drywall may dent or crack which will require a repair. Follow this link if you do need to repair your drywall.
Once the anchor is sunk, you can patch the hole over the anchor with crack filler or drywall compound, wait for it to dry and then sand it flush. Paint over it with your new paint (or a bit of the old paint if you are not changing colours) and your unsightly wall anchor have been hidden, its that easy.
Do you have any tips and tricks for removing or hiding wall anchors? Let us know in the comments section below.