If you’re working on a DIY project where you need to fix an object to a wall, I can guarantee you’ll need to use a Rawlplug to make it the fixing secure. Also known as wall plugs, Rawlplugs are a key component in the fixing process, but you need to choose the right ones for them to be effective.
When drilling into brick or masonry for example, you can’t simply screw straight into the drill hole. The screw simply won’t grip, and the fixing will fail. A Rawlplug will add the holding power needed to support it.
But you still need to choose the appropriate option. Find out what types are available and what will work for your next DIY project.
Rawlplugs, rawl plugs or wall plugs?
If you're wondering why you might hear the term Rawlplugs, rawl plugs and wall plugs in reference to just one type of product, there's a reason why, as Angelo Patrizi, founder of Nuova Home Improvements explains.
“A rawl plug, properly called a wall plug, is also called a 'Rawlplug' as it's the brand name that has become generically associated with it – a bit like a 'Hoover' is used to describe a vacuum cleaner. It's a small tube made of either plastic or nylon, inserted in a hole that's been drilled in masonry, into which you insert a screw.”
They are typically used in walls to provide a secure fix. "Brick, block, or concrete does not provide sufficient friction on its own for the thread of the screw to grip,” he expands. The plug expands to fit in the hole as the screw is inserted, and this expansion helps create a stronger hold between the screw and the wall.
Types of rawl plug
Rawlplugs are effectively designed the same, with slight variations for different DIY tasks. The key difference is the size. Scott Godfrey, trade consultant for Black Hammer and owner of SG Carpentry, explains further.
“The most common differences are the diameter and length of the plug. A larger diameter plug can generally 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 into softer materials where a deeper anchor is needed,” he says.
“The sizes typically correspond to the diameter of the drill bit,” adds Angelo Patrizi. For example, a 6mm Rawlplug commonly fits a hole drilled with a 6mm bit.
Beyond the standard, there are also specialist plugs designed for different wall types, “Plasterboard fixings, cavity wall plugs and heavy duty masonry plugs all work differently because the materials they grip behave differently,” explains Scott.
What rawl plug colours mean
“The colours are a simple way to identify the size of the plug, although it’s worth remembering that colour coding can vary between brands,” explains Scott Godfrey. “Traditionally, red, brown and yellow plugs are commonly seen in DIY shops, with each colour representing a different diameter.”
Angelo Patrizi explains the common sizes for colours and what screw is needed.
“5mm plugs are yellow and need a no. 6-8 screw, 6mm is red and needs a no. 8-10, 7/8mm is brown and a no. 10-14 is needed. Large or heavy-duty for bigger fixtures are typically grey or blue plugs,” he adds.
Don’t forget to check sizes with the individual retailer before you buy or use though as colours, especially yellow, red and brown, may differ slightly.
Shop these Rawl plugs and tools for DIY projects
From the manufacturer who gave wall plugs their adopted name, these brown 7mm plugs come in a pack of 288. Anti-rotation features prevent spinning in the hole.
This cordless drill driver offers everything you need to start drilling into masonry ready for rawl plugs. Includes charger, battery, carry case and a 22-piece accessory set.
A sturdy, weighty fibreglass hammer that's ideal for tapping in Rawlplugs and removing when needed. Also ideal for driving in nails on other DIY projects.
Angelo Patrizi runs Nuova Home Improvements, a hands-on renovation company based in Berkshire, UK. They specialise in kitchens, bathrooms, extensions, loft conversions, and full home renovations.
Scott Godfrey is a carpenter with over 20 years of experience in the trade. He has extensive experience in both bespoke and large-scale projects, including luxury home builds and renovations.
How to use a Rawlplug
It's pretty straightforward to use a Rawlplug, but there are a few simple rules to follow.
“To use one correctly, you first need to choose 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 snugly into the hole without being forced in, and it should sit flush with the wall surface,” he adds. Make sure the drilled hole is also deep enough for the plug's length.
A simple tip I use is to line up the Rawlplug alongside the drill bit to be used, add 5mm and mark this by wrapping masking tape around the drill bit
When to use Rawlplugs
Rawlplugs are used to attach items to masonry, typically walls. I use them mainly to put up shelves and hang pictures and hooks, but I have also used them to hang wall cabinets.
But these are not the only jobs where they will be called upon. Angelo Patrizi suggests a few other tasks, including, “hanging curtain rails and mirrors, fixing TV mount brackets and kitchen cabinet mounts, fitting radiators, rain gutter mount brackets and house numbers.”
“They’re particularly useful whenever you need a secure fixing in brick, concrete or plasterboard,” adds Scott Godfrey.
But, one word of warning. Remember, if fixing into plasterboard, Rawlplugs will not work; you will need specialist plasterboard fixings. "A small pack of plasterboard fixings (self-drilling or toggle) are needed for anything not going into masonry," confirms Angelo Patrizi.
For ease of reference, if you're wondering what colour Rawplugs will suit common DIY jobs, Anglo explains.
"Yellow (5mm) is ideal for lightweight fixings like picture hooks and small brackets. Red (6mm) is the most commonly used size, which is good for curtain poles, mirrors, and light shelving. Brown (7/8mm) for heavier shelving, radiators, kitchen units."
“A useful DIY toolbox should therefore include a few common sizes (5mm, 6mm and 8mm plugs are good ones) 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 isn't always possible.
If you do have a loose fitting, Scott Godfrey says, “don’t just force a larger screw into it and hope for the best If you don’t have the right plug available, it’s usually better to wait and buy the correct fixing, rather than risk damaging the wall or having the item fall.”
However, if you are only putting up a lightweight item, such as a shelf, Angelo Patrizi suggests a few hacks to help. “Take a small piece of insulation tape or even a strip taken from a plastic bag to fill up an undersized plug.”
Another option I’ve used over the years is matches. Break a couple of matches into the hole next to a loose plug in order to increase the friction; it’s an old trick but very effective.
How to remove a Rawlplug
If you’re lucky, you can remove a Rawlplug by hand. However, if this isn’t the case, there are a few options.
A simple way to remove is to get a larger screw and screw into the Rawlplug. Then get a pair of pliers such as these Draper 200mm Combination Pliers from Amazon to pull it out. Alternatively, use the claw on a claw hammer.
If you are struggling to remove a Rawlplug, I simply tap it in further and fill the hole with a decent wall filler. I use a patching plaster such as this Bartoline Patching Plaster from Amazon, as it sets quickly and is easy to rub down. Another option I’ve also used is to drill out the Rawlplug.
Rawl plugs are a key component when hanging items on the wall. Find out how they are used in our how to hang a picture guide. If putting up shelves and you need some inspiration, make sure you check our kitchen shelving ideas and bedroom shelving ideas before you start.
