How to fix a radiator to plasterboard wall?
If you wondering how to hang a radiator on a plasterboard wall, then the answer is yes you can. The best plasterboard fixings for radiators are GeeFix. Perhaps you were searching for ‘how to hang a radiator on a stud wall’. or ‘radiator brackets’. When it comes to fixing a radiator to plasterboard or a stud wall, you can trust GeeFix.
Hanging a radiator on a plasterboard wall used to be challenging. Many of the plasterboard anchors and screws on the market would fail. Now, hanging a radiator on plasterboard is possible with the innovative fixing that is GeeFix radiator plasterboard fixings. With GeeFix, you fix it once. Fix it Right!
Fixing a vertical radiator to plasterboard is not a problem with our fixings. Take a look below at some of our customers images from our Instagram Page
Plasterboard Fixings for Radiators - GeeFix
GeeFix was invented by Gary Williams who is a retired plumber with over 30 years of experience in the trade. We are proud that not only was GeeFix designed and developed in the UK but it is also manufactured in Shropshire supporting local industry and British business.
It was developed with the aim of creating a fixing which would secure heavy items to plasterboard/drywall walls. The interiors of modern homes are constructed from stud-work and plasterboard so that GeeFix is the ideal product for fixing those heavy objects to cavity walls. TVs, radiators, towel rails, shelving, cabinets, cupboards, mirrors, curtain rails ……… just some of the many items that can be securely fixed to plasterboard with our fixings.
These fixings can also be used to refix an object to a plasterboard wall where a different type of fixing has failed. For example, where a radiator has come away from a wall, a GeeFix fixing can be installed in the same position as the failed fixing and so often reduce the amount of work necessary to repair plasterboard.
GeeFix can be adapted for use with smaller objects, such as bathroom accessories, where fixing holes are close together. In these instances, one fixing can be used to secure the item by using the length of the backplate in the cavity for additional fixing points.
Step 1
Drill a 1” hole centered on your desired location
Step 2
Assemble your GeeFix wall anchor system as shown above by threading the supplied blue pullcord through the round wall plug, the curved back plate, and back through the wall plug.
Step 3
While holding onto the pullcord, feed the curved back plate into the hole and center on the 1″ hole
Step 4
While keeping light tension on the pullcord slide the wall plug into the 1″ hole to align with the holes on the back plate
Step 5
While keeping firm tension on the pullcord, screw the large screw into the center hole until the GeeFix becomes firm, but do not overtighten. Keeping tension on the pullcord will keep the back plate in place during installation.
Step 6
Pull out the pullcord but do not discard. You can use the same pullcord on additional GeeFix installations.
Step 7
Insert the 2 smaller screws on either side of the large screw and tighten until the GeeFix is firmly secured but do not overtighten.
Step 8
Remove the center screw
Step 9
Now that your GeeFix system is installed, you can either use the center screw to fix your item, or use your own mounting hardware in its place.
Challenges of Mounting Radiators on Plasterboard
Attaching a radiator directly to plasterboard can lead to several potential problems, primarily due to the material’s structural limitations and heat sensitivity. Here are some of the key issues you might encounter:
Weight Bearing Capacity
Plasterboard, also known as drywall or gypsum board, is not designed to support heavy loads. Radiators can be quite heavy, especially when filled with water, and mounting them directly onto plasterboard can lead to structural damage. Over time, this can cause the plasterboard to sag or even fail, potentially causing a safety hazard.
Heat Conductivity
Plasterboard is a relatively poor conductor of heat. When a radiator is attached directly to it, the heat generated by the radiator might not be efficiently distributed throughout the room. This can lead to uneven heating, with areas closer to the radiator being significantly warmer than those farther away.
Risk of Fire
While plasterboard is fire-resistant to some degree, it is not completely fireproof. Directly attaching a radiator can potentially increase the risk of fire if the radiator becomes too hot and the plasterboard is not adequately insulated or protected.
Thermal Expansion and Contraction
Radiators undergo significant temperature fluctuations as they heat up and cool down. Plasterboard is not designed to withstand these extreme temperature changes without some form of reinforcement or insulation. Over time, this can lead to cracks or other forms of damage in the plasterboard.
Fixing Points and Brackets
Attaching a radiator securely to plasterboard requires special consideration. Traditional wall plugs and screws might not provide enough support. Specialized brackets or anchors designed for plasterboard are needed, and even then, they may not provide the same level of stability as mounting on a solid wall.
Moisture Absorption
In areas where moisture levels are high, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms, plasterboard can be susceptible to damage. Mounting a radiator directly onto plasterboard in such environments can exacerbate this issue, potentially leading to mold growth, warping, or deterioration of the plasterboard.
To mitigate these problems, it’s advisable to install radiators on a solid, load-bearing surface, such as a brick or concrete wall. If attaching a radiator to plasterboard is unavoidable, consider using additional measures like spreading the load with a large piece of plywood or using specialized fixings designed for this purpose. It’s also crucial to consult with a professional installer or contractor to ensure that the installation is carried out safely and securely.
Types of Plasterboard Fixings
There are several types of plasterboard fixings available, each designed to provide secure support for fixtures and fittings. Below are the top five reputable brands known for producing high-quality plasterboard fixings:
Geefix
This is the strongest plasterboard fixing on the market. Designed for heavy loads such as radiators. It utilizes a unique expanding mechanism to provide a strong and secure anchor.
Fischer
Fischer is a well-established German company that manufactures a wide range of fixing solutions, including those suitable for plasterboard.
Rawlplug
Rawlplug is a renowned brand in the construction industry, known for its comprehensive selection of fixings and fasteners, including those designed for plasterboard applications.
GripIt
GripIt is a British company known for its innovative plasterboard fixings, particularly the GripIt Plasterboard Fixings, which are widely used for heavier loads.
TOGGLER
TOGGLER is known for its range of specialized anchors and fixings, including those designed for use in plasterboard and other hollow wall materials.