Plasterboard (drywall) partitions are everywhere in modern homes, and this is often where you want to hang your board. Good news: you can absolutely mount a surfboard rack on plasterboard, provided you choose the right fastener. Here is the step-by-step method.
Step 1: Check the type of wall
Tap on the wall with your fist. A hollow sound indicates a plasterboard partition; a solid and dull sound indicates a concrete, brick, or stone wall. On a solid wall, a standard wall plug is sufficient. On plasterboard, you need a suitable fastener: standard plastic plugs do not hold well in plaster alone.
Step 2: Locate the studs (the most secure solution)
A plasterboard partition is screwed onto a framework of metal studs, generally spaced 60 cm apart. Screwing the rack directly into a stud is the most secure method. To find them:
- pass a magnet or a stud finder along the wall: it will react to the screws that hold the boards to the studs;
- or locate an electrical outlet: it is often placed against a stud.
If the spacing of the holes on your rack does not line up with a stud, move on to step 3.
Step 3: Choose a special plasterboard wall plug
- Metal expansion anchor (often called a Molly bolt): it spreads out behind the board and provides a very strong hold. This is the recommended choice for a surfboard rack.
- Toggle bolt: even stronger, useful for heavy loads like a multiple rack loaded with several boards.
- Self-drilling anchor: practical for light objects, like a skateboard rack, but less suitable for a surfboard.
Always check the package for the weight capacity per anchor and the compatible board thickness (often 13 mm). Good to know: the screws supplied with our racks are universal; for plasterboard, using specific anchors ensures a much better hold.
Step 4: Drill and mount
- Locate cables and pipes with a detector before drilling.
- Position the rack on the wall, check for level, and mark the holes with a pencil.
- Drill to the diameter indicated on the anchor, without using the hammer function.
- Insert the anchors, then screw the rack in by hand, without forcing, so as not to damage the material.
- Place the board and check the stability before leaving it in place.
How much weight on plasterboard?
A surfboard rarely weighs more than a few kilos, which remains well below the capacity of a correctly installed expansion anchor. As a reminder, our Plastic Series single racks support up to 20 kg, our Wood Series racks 10 kg, and our skateboard racks 5 kg. For a multiple rack loaded with 3 to 6 boards, prefer mounting into studs or using toggle bolts.
At what height should the rack be mounted?
To display a board, place it at eye level or slightly above, leaving space to remove it easily. For a longboard, account for the length of the board on both sides of the supports and avoid room corners and high-traffic areas.
Frequently asked questions
Can you mount a surfboard rack on plasterboard without a drill?
No: a rack must be screwed in. Adhesive hooks are not designed to support a surfboard.
Which anchor should I use to mount a surfboard rack on plasterboard?
A metal expansion anchor (Molly type) or a toggle bolt. Otherwise, screw directly into a metal stud.
Are EDERRAK racks delivered with mounting hardware?
Yes, each rack comes with screws, anchors, and a mounting guide. This hardware is universal: for a plasterboard partition, equip yourself with specific plasterboard anchors (expansion or toggle) for better hold.
In summary
On plasterboard: locate a stud if possible, otherwise use expansion or toggle bolts, and tighten by hand. To choose your model, read our guide Which surfboard rack to choose? or discover our single surfboard racks.