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How to install a towel rail into plaster

DIY Step Image - How to install a towel rail into plaster . Blob storage upload.

Overview

Learn how to put up a towel rail on a plaster wall in your bathroom. We'll show you how to mount the rail securely and make it level. You’ll also see how to find a wall stud to attach it to and use nylon wall plugs for reinforcement.

Steps

1Mark the position of the towel rail on the plaster wall

First assemble your towel rail and choose a position for it on the wall. Make sure you keep it away from power points, and set it so your hanging towels don't touch the floor. Then work out where the wall studs are in that area with your stud finder. Mark their positions with a pencil, then place your rail on the wall and mark the first mounting point in line with your stud.
DIY Step Image - How to install a towel rail into plaster . Blob storage upload.

2Install the top mounting brackets for the towel rail

Screw the first mounting bracket into the wall stud. Then mark out your second point on the wall based on the length of your towel rail. Use a spirit level to make sure the mounting brackets are at the same height. If the second point isn't over a stud, you can reinforce it with a nylon wall plug before screwing the bracket in place.
DIY Step Image - How to install a towel rail into plaster . Blob storage upload.

3Install the bottom brackets and the towel rail

Place the towel rail on the two top mounting brackets and mark your bottom mounting points on the wall. Then remove the rail and screw the bottom brackets in, once again using nylon wall plugs where necessary. Finish the job by installing the towel rail on the brackets and fixing it in place with an Allen key.
DIY Step Image - How to install a towel rail into plaster . Blob storage upload.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.