To remove drywall anchors, follow these common effective methods depending on the type of anchor and how firmly it is set:
Step 1: Remove the Screw
- First, remove any screw from the drywall anchor using a screwdriver. This makes it easier to access and remove the anchor itself
Step 2: Remove the Anchor
Method 1: Pull Out with Pliers
- Use needle-nose pliers to grip the anchor’s collar or head.
- Gently wiggle and pull the anchor straight out of the wall.
- This works well for expansion anchors and some plastic anchors if they are not too tight
Method 2: Unscrew the Anchor
- Insert a screwdriver that fits snugly into the anchor.
- Turn counterclockwise to unscrew and back the anchor out of the wall.
- This is effective for threaded drywall anchors and self-drilling anchors
Method 3: Cut and Push Through
- Use a utility knife or a drill with a cutting wheel to cut off the anchor’s head or collar flush with the wall.
- Use a screwdriver or hammer to push the remaining anchor body into the wall cavity.
- This method is useful when the anchor is too tight to pull or unscrew and avoids further wall damage
Method 4: Recess the Anchor
- After cutting off the anchor head, use a screwdriver and hammer to tap the anchor back into the wall.
- This allows you to patch over the hole smoothly
Step 3: Patch the Hole
- After anchor removal, fill the hole with spackle or drywall compound.
- Sand smooth and repaint as needed to restore the wall surface
These methods cover most drywall anchor types including expansion anchors, threaded anchors, and toggle bolts. Start with the least invasive (unscrewing or pulling) and progress to cutting and pushing if needed to minimize wall damage
