Mounting heavy 2.5kg plaster corbels information and advice on general building topics, builders merchants, problem builders, DIY Stores etc....

[snazpizaz]

Hi

I need to hang pair of large (30cm drop) solid plaster corbels. (See images) They weigh approx 2.5kg each so are quite heavy. Not sure if coving bond alone will hold them.

It is ok to drill a hole in the rear of the plaster to insert a screw protruding from the wall to help secure it ?
Will the plaster take a drill bit or will it crumble on contact ?
If i can, is it best to use a masonry or wood drill bit ?

Any other tips appreciated.

Cheers
sp

[stoneyboy]

Hi snazpizaz
Risky to hang these with adhesive alone. Also risky to drill into them - you never what has been used for the basic shape. Suggest you try drilling using a very sharp masonry drill, drill not on hammer action. Try a 10mm drill so if successful you can then set 6mm stainless studding in the corbel, suggest 2 holes in each. You can then set the studding using pop and fix to the wall with both studding and adhesive.
Regards S

[snazpizaz]

thanks @stoney boy

i had thought perhaps just one hole about 50-60 mm down centre from the top back edge and to match with a long screw (or stainless studding) protruding from an embedded raw plug in the wall. This is because, up tight against the ceiling and flush against the wall (that's where it's hanging) should stabilise it from going crooked and mitigate requring drilling two holes. Also then use a coving-bond as well.
Does that make sense ? Sound like a good method ?
With the method you describe - how would the stainless studding secure to the wall ?
cheers - appreciated
sp

[stoneyboy]

Hi snazpizaz
One or two holes? It depends how good your plaster moulding are.
Suggested stainless studding so there will not be any reaction, if you use ordinary screws rusting may damage the moulding.
Suggest you fix into the wall using epoxy resin - an oversize hole will allow for adjustments.
Regards S