If you’re working on a DIY project where you need to fix an object to a wall, I can guarantee that you’ll need to use a Rawlplug to secure the fixing. Also known as wall plugs, rollplugs are a key component in the fixing process, but you need to choose the right one to be effective.
when Drilling into brick Or masonry, for example, you can’t screw directly into a drill hole. The screw simply will not hold, and the fixing will fail. The Rawlplug will add the necessary holding power to support it.
But you still need to choose the right option. Find out what types are available and what will work for your next DIY project.
Rollplug, roll plug or wall plug?
If you’re wondering why you only hear the term rollplugs, roll plugs, and wall plugs in reference to one type of product, there’s a reason, as Angelo Patrizzi, New home improvement explains.
“A roll plug, properly known as a wall plug, is also called a ‘rollplug’ because that’s the brand name it’s commonly associated with – a bit like ‘hoover’ is used to describe a vacuum cleaner. It’s a small tube made of plastic or nylon, inserted into a hole, which you drop into the drain.”
They are commonly used in walls to provide a secure fix. “Brick, block or concrete does not provide enough friction on its own to grip the screw thread,” he elaborates. The plug expands to fit the hole as the screw is inserted, and this expansion helps create a stronger grip between the screw and the wall.
Types of roll plugs
Rawlplugs are effectively the same design, with slight variations for different DIY tasks. The main difference is the size. Scott Godfrey, business consultant for Black Hammer and the owner SG CarpentryNext explains.
“The most common differences are the diameter and length of the plug. A larger diameter plug can usually support heavier loads because it creates a stronger grip inside the wall, and longer plugs are useful when you need extra support or when fixing in softer materials where a deeper anchor is needed,” he says.
“The size usually corresponds to the diameter of the drill bit,” adds Angelo Petrizzi. For example, a 6mm Rawlplug usually fits a hole drilled with a 6mm bit.
In addition to the standard, there are specialist plugs designed for different types of wall, “Plasterboard fixings, cavity wall plugs and heavy duty masonry plugs all work differently because the material they hold behaves differently,” explains Scott.
What do roll plug colors mean?
“Color is an easy way to identify plug size, although it’s worth remembering that color coding can vary between brands,” explains Scott Godfrey. “Traditionally, red, brown and yellow plugs are commonly found in DIY shops, with each color representing a different diameter.”
Angelo Patrizzi explains the general measurements for the colors and which screws are needed.
“5mm plugs are yellow and require No. 6-8 screws, 6mm are red and require No. 8-10, 7/8mm are brown and require No. 10-14. Larger or heavy-duty for larger fixtures are usually gray or blue plugs,” he adds.
Be sure to check sizes with the individual retailer before you buy or use, though colors, especially yellow, red, and brown, may vary slightly.
Shop these Rawl plugs and tools for DIY projects
Rawlplug Uno Universal Plug
From the manufacturer that gave wall plugs their adopted name, this brown 7mm plug comes in a pack of 288. Anti-rotation features prevent rotation in the hole.
Einhell Cordless Drill Driver
This cordless drill driver provides everything you need to start drilling into raw plug-ready masonry. Includes charger, battery, carry case and 22-piece accessory set.
Stanley fiberglass claw hammer
A strong, heavy duty fiberglass hammer ideal for tapping in rawlplugs and removing them when needed. Also ideal for driving in nails on other DIY projects.
Angelo Patrizzi runs Nuva Home Improvements, a hands-on renovation company based in Berkshire, UK. They specialize in kitchens, bathrooms, extensions, loft conversions and whole house renovations.
Scott Godfrey is a carpenter with over 20 years experience in the trade. He has extensive experience in both bespoke and large-scale projects, including luxury home builds and renovations.
How to use Rawlplug
Rawlplug is fairly easy to use, but there are a few simple rules to follow.
“To use one properly, you first need to select the right plug and screw for the job, then drill a hole that matches the size of the plug,” says Scott Godfrey.
“The plug should fit tightly into the hole without forcing, and it should be flush with the surface of the wall,” he adds. Make sure the drilled hole is also deep enough for the length of the plug.
A simple tip I use is to line up the rollplug with the drill bit being used, add 5mm and mark this by wrapping masking tape around the drill bit.
When to use Rawlplugs
Rollplugs are used to fasten objects to masonry, usually walls. I use it mainly to put up shelves and hang pictures and hooks, but I’ve also used it to hang wall cabinets.
But these are not the only jobs where they will be called. Angelo Petrizzi suggests a few other tasks, including “hanging curtain rails and mirrors, mounting TV mount brackets and kitchen cabinets, fitting radiatorsRain gutter mount brackets and house numbers.
“They are particularly useful whenever you need a secure fixing into brick, concrete or plasterboard,” adds Scott Godfrey.
But, a word of warning. Remember, if fixing to plasterboard, rollplugs will not work; You will need an expert Plasterboard fixing. “A small pack of plasterboard fixings (self-drilling or toggle) is needed to keep anything from going into the masonry,” confirms Angelo Petrizzi.
For ease of reference, if you’re wondering which color Raplug would be best suited for common DIY jobs, Anglo explains.
“Yellow (5mm) is ideal for lightweight fixings such as picture hooks and small brackets. Red (6mm) is the most commonly used size, good for curtain poles, mirrors and light shelves. Brown (7/8mm) for heavy shelves, radiators, kitchen units.”
“A useful DIY toolbox should include a few common sizes (5mm, 6mm and 8mm plugs are good) along with matching screws,” advises Scott.
Rawlplug Hacks
A poorly drilled hole can mean a loose-fitting plug. The obvious solution is to drill a new hole nearby, but this is not always possible.
If you have a loose fitting, Scott Godfrey says, “Don’t just push in a big screw and hope for the best. If you don’t have the right plug available, it’s better to wait and buy the right fixing rather than risk damaging the wall or the thing falling out.”
However, if you are only placing a lightweight item, such as a shelfAngelo Petrizzi suggests a few hacks to help. “Also take a small piece of insulation tape or a strip taken from a plastic bag to fill the undersized plug.”
Another option I’ve used over the years is matches. Break two matches into the hole next to the loose plug to increase friction; It is an old trick but very effective.
How to remove Rawlplug
If you’re lucky, you can remove the Rawlplug by hand. However, if this is not the case, there are a few options.
An easy way to remove is to get a large screw and screw in the rollplug. Then get a pair of such pairs Draper 200mm Combination Pliers from Amazon To pull it out. Alternatively, use the Claw on the Claw Hammer.
If you are struggling to remove the rollplug, I would tape it further and fill the hole with suitable wall filler. I use a patching plaster like this one Bartolin Patching Plaster from AmazonBecause it sets quickly and is easy to rub. Another option that I have also used is to drill a rollplug.
Roll plugs are a key component when hanging things on the wall. Find out how they are used How to hang a picture Guide If you want to put up shelves and need some inspiration, make sure you check us out Kitchen shelving ideas And Consider shelving in the bedroom Before you begin.
