I discovered the duopower plugs when I was with my daughter "she insisted i buy them because of the funky colour" I was amazed how well they perform and became my goto plugs - thanks for the tests it reinforces my confidence in them as well :)
Thanks to this video I started using Fischer Duo Power plugs, both the 6mm and 8mm size, on both interior and exterior fastening jobs. Pictures on interior drywall, shelving in the garage into solid brick and hanging basket plants and exterior decorations, house numbers and the like, outside on solid brick. They have been easy to use and so far I have a 100% success rate. Many thanks.
I bought these today for use in plumbing (fixing shower fittings etc) and was very impressed. They pull tight and feel solid. Will be using these from now on, well worth the money.
Thanks for the tip of using fully-threaded screws for these (and for posting the 5x40mm screws you used)… have had mixed results with these on DIY jobs (screw not tightening, plug spinning), and now I know why! Used a fully-threaded screw with a duo power today, it worked perfectly. Great vid, thanks 👍
Watched this video a while ago now. But not really used these plugs. Last week though I fitted a kitchen using these plugs. Some walls were dot and dabbed and others were solid brick. Loved them. Managed to get the wall brackets tight on every wall. Whereas a lot of times before I've had to mess about trying to get a good fixing. They're great. Definitely going on every job with me now.
As I have now installed thousands of these, I wanted to reiterate two things from this video that are super important when using these: 1) If using your own screws, make sure no unthreaded portion enters the anchor; and 2) do not overtighten, definitely do the final tightening by hand. I've seen too many of these "blow up" because a worker took an impact to them. You'll end up ballooning the anchor and it ends up mangled and spinning in its hole, which eventually requires drilling it out and installing a more time-consuming snap-toggle instead.
Hi Sakanora, I am curious around the importance of the unthreaded portion not entering the plug. In the video it's not clear why it causes an issue or whether it is only in the plasterboard scenario that is shown. Is it because a portion of the plug does not expand? If that it the main issue, then in solid wall this would lead to reduction in the load bearing relative to the length of the unthreaded portion, but the remainder of the length would expand. Or is there something else I might be missing?
I found these wallplugs then found your review, it helped me no end, as a very basic DIY'er. It enabled me to select the right screws for the first job and the tip about making sure the hole was at least as deep as the screw was very helpful. If there is a way to do something wrong, I can normally find it, but today I hung a 90cm circular mirror and a Gin rack very successfully. Thank you
Great video. Thanks Andy. I've used Fischer reds for years. After watching this vid I tried the DuoPower. Really impressed. You can really smack them hard into a 5.5mm hole without the mouth of the plug mashing over. Great for me when I'm feeling tired and haven't judged the hole depth too well!
Thank you for your great advice. I have just bought a heavy Winmau dartboard. It's 5kg and my wall is plasterboard. I was all set to buy self-drilling screws until I saw your tests, and went out and bought a box of Dupower 6mm instead. Tentatively put up the bracket with two duopower this morning and the board is solid as a rock, even with my lousy DIY. Keep up the good work!
Great stuff! Just be careful as the constant movement of a dartboard (pulling darts out over and over) can exceed what these little plugs can handle. I'd normally use expanding metal anchors for something like this. 👍
I''ve just stumbled across these since I bought me new home and the reviews I've read are really good, and now thanks to google tracking everything we do on here its recommended your amazing vlog, I've just ordered two types for my drywall to connect a wood frame to it, making a raised feature in my master bedroom. I'm I right in saying that the more I secure the wall with, then the max load is then evenly spread through out the fixings. So to hang a TV on the raised area the more the better. Thanks for the review on these buddy.
Hi Neil, This is very late and you probably already got it sorted but yes. Each plug has a max 'weight' it can carry. If you divide the load over several plugs the load will be more evenly distributed :)
@@stomperthemixer1 dont worry if you buy a tv mount it is usually supported by at least 3 plugs. Each tv mount also has a max weight it supports. This combined with good plugs should be perfectly fine.
Hi buddy, 3 Years on, how did the plugs hold up? Just moved into new house, front room wall is plasterboard only and want 50" TV on wall. Will be going straight into the plasterboard, not any studs.
Great video. After a quick research I found out that DuoPower 6 (the one your are using) creates a knot like in your video. The one in the picture is the DuoPower 8 I hope to be helpful :)
I tried to use drywall plastic anchors in masonry and the ones I had didn't work because they bent over before they were fully inserted. No problem, I thought I'd just go to Home Depot and buy plastic anchors for concrete. I couldn't find any labeled as such. I bought some anchors that looked like the plugs I had used before in masonry but they also were labeled as for drywall, but they worked. It wasn't until I got on the internet and realized that the DuoPower anchors that Home Depot sold were duel purpose . I looked for a review of how well they worked and that's how I happened on this video. Thank you. As an aside, it seems like any anchor that you can get fully embedded into concrete will produce a much stronger connection than is needed for most routine light duty connections to concrete.
I remembered watching this video last year. I have now reviewed it again, and now off to buy some now for a fixing into plasterboard. I will be using with confidence. Thanks.
No worries Brian! Remember I wouldn't particularly recommend these as a dedicated plasterboard fixing, there are better solutions. But these are a good all-round problem solver. Just watch the weight limits suggested by Fischer. 👍
Thanks for the video, Andy. I recently used some of these Fischer DuoPower plugs to attach some bearers to my garage wall to hold up shelves. I must confess that, where possible, I fixed them in the mortar between the bricks. I realise that this is not good practice, but the mortar is sound and gave a good, strong fixing. These plugs are good quality and they're working well for me. The shelves haven't fallen down and there's some pretty heavy stuff on them!
I've only used Fischer DuoFix to hang anything remotely heavy in my house. Absolutely love them. Especially the 10x50 plugs with 5xt0 bolts. They are pricey (5 bucks for 4 plugs and bolts) but its more expensive to replace a tv or two
If you look on amazon (and I'm sure elsewhere) they sell a selection for about $20 that come in a nice Sortimo box (and includes 15 10x50s, 30 8x40 and 60 6x30 - all with bolts/screws).
Great video without the screeching and grating voices of other youtubers. Excellent review and decent scientific method. Thank you. I hope you’re a Mag....top 10 finish for sure!
Good test. When I use these and the Fischer UX 6 plugs in plaster board cavity walls I drill the smallest hole possible, 5.5 mm in this case and use the smallest recommended diameter fully threaded screw. This helps stop the plug from twisting in the hole as you tighten it, especially in old softer plaster board. I wouldn’t use an impact driver ! and I usually finish tightening the screw by hand.
Your videos are so helpful and informative ! Thanks so much for the great content. Using the duopowers in my new house I’m renovating and this video was invaluable !
I've got the 6 x 30 and 8 x 40mm versions. My findings are as follows in 12.5mm plasterboard. The 6 x 30mm version I'm struggling with. I've tried 4mm and 5mm full threaded screws which were long enough to pierce the end of the plug with item to be fixed in place. What I've found with the 5mm screw is it just turns the complete plug round in the hole once the screw gets around halfway down the plug. With the 4mm screw the plug starts to collapse a little bit which ends up wider than the drilled hole but it certainly doesn't really deform that much which is a similar finding to your video. Now, the 8 x 40mm plug I can get repeatable results which are much better. I've tried both the 4mm and 5mm diameter screws and the plug really deforms a treat, spreading out very well behind the plasterboard. I think I will have to try another kind of small plasterboard plug.
Great stuff! I must admit, although I like the DuoPower as a problem solver, I do prefer the Fischer GP/LDF fixings for lightweight use for the reasons you say - less inclined to rotate. I generally use the expanding metal fixings with a setting tool for heavier stuff. 👍
Agreed that the Fischer Duopower plugs are game-changing. However, care must be taken not to oversize the hole for the plug as the anti-rotation wings are not very large. Suggest using 5.5mm drill to ensure a snug fit in all substrates.
I sometimes drill 1mm undersize in my plasterboard walls with thermalite blocks. It's easy to damage the plasterboard (oversize) leading to a loose fitting. A twist drill gives a cleaner cut and copes with thermalite blocks easily. Over the decades I've used larger and larger plugs - the 1980s rawl plugs pull out eventually. Nothing less than Fisher 8x40 or 10x50 these days.
@@paulhadley9047 Can I ask what diameter screws do you use with the 8x40 and 10x50 plugs? And what series of Fischer plugs are these? They make them in duo power but also UX.
@@lancearmstrong3252 Hi, for strength I always go for the largest diameter recommended for the plug. If the plug says 6 to 8mm I find 6mm can spin in the nylon, but 8mm is firm. Length is important, must be slightly longer than plug depth in wall. For 10x50 I have had good success with long concrete screws from Screwfix. 7.5mm x 100mm. There is a UX 10x60, with long concrete screws I had a solid support for IKEA support rail for kitchen cabinets. The long screw penetrates the block behind the plug, I mark plug depth with tape on drill.
I'd like to see a review of Fischer FIS polyester injection mortar. I found this stuff very handy for fixings in aerated concrete, but it would be great to see your pull tests on it.
Excellent video and perfect timing with the info for some work I need to do. Just been put on to your channel and plenty of excellent vids on here, I appreciate your thorough testing!
Another great vid, been using them for 6months now and I like them. Interesting what you said about push through fittings, I have little experience doing them. Would appreciate a how to vid if you get the time. Thanks Andy. 👍
Been using the grey Fisher plugs (even the cheeper copy long before that from dial at the big orange warehouse DIY store and before that at the blue background with white letters starting with W.) So much better than basic plugs due to the square head to stop rotation. Great for brick, block and plasterboard. Not had such consistent results with the red ones. I also tap them just below the surface with solid material as it's easier to plaster over when no longer needed, better than trying to dig them out and they can't be tapped in after use as they are solidly bonded in.
Could you also do a test of these in hollow concrete? In Germany it's quite normal to have brick/sandstone with holes in them for walls dividing rooms. Fischer says an 8x40mm plug can hold about 25kg, making no difference between the SX plus and these Duo Power plugs in their rating. Would be nice to see a real world comparison.
It would be great to know how these test would go with 4mm and 4.5mm diameter screws as well as 5mm. My experience with the Fischer DuoPower is that they work best at a bit below the maximum size screw diameter.
Fischer provides information about which screws to use on their website. for the 6x30 it is 4-5 mm screws for wood with at least 35mm length (depending on the head). So your observation is right.
Why do you think that the smaller screw would be better? I would have thought that the bigger screw would make a tighter seal, but you reckon the smaller screw would be better?
the fishcher ones have a pretty thick shaft at the hole so if you have crumbling in some walls it prevents them from spinning compared to the regular ones
Is there a weight limit determined by the plasterboard itself? For example, I guess screwing a TV mounting plate using 4 of these could in theory easily support a 25-30kg TV, but would the downward force cause the plasterboard to crumple or give way, no matter how good the fixing?
Depending on the TV and type of mount, often you really need a stud or two, and that is best practice. But a lightweight TV with a flush mount, a stud isn't necessary as long as the wall is in good condition. Metal Snaptoggles are the strongest anchor for that in drywall, though there are other options.
It'd be interesting to see a Test Tuesday comparing the aerated block to other household objects, such as a loaf of bread, to see which is stronger. I'd put my money on the bread! From my past experience, different brands of plasterboard can have completely different strengths, even with the same thickness. We used to get our Plasterboard from B&Q as we used to live a couple minute drive from one, but at the new house we have an MKM literally across the road so we decided to get it from there instead and it's a lot stiffer.
Great video, I was looking at these plugs but never realised it was quite so versatile. I have to say, I generally use the red EasyFix plugs form Screwfix at 59p for 100 rather than the £7 for 100 that the price is today for the duo. I noticed they do a Rawlplug red as well. That might be a test for the future that helps to show that whether the cost makes a difference. Just a couple of tests on each of the red plugs all the way up to the Fischer one? Anyway, Thanks again for the effort you went to.
Great video, thanks for sharing! At 7:07 you speak about the hammer action of your drill. When do you (in person) use that? Doing DIY for about 30 years now, I gradually came to the conclusion that I need the hammer action of a drill only for drilling in concrete or hard natural rock walls (ceilings/floors). For bricks and other light weight construction wall blocks I prefer without. Maybe it goes a little bit slower but in my eyes the hole keeps better the diameter what was aimed for. I'd like to hear your opinion on that.
I really like these, but my only concern is how do they perform if you need to temporarily remove something that is fixed to the wall to redecorate? I haven't yet had to do this but it seems they probably have a reusability of maybe three times before the plug becomes completely chewed up.... then you would need to pull it out of the wall and replace with a new one. Not as issue cost wise, but I can imagine removing the mangled plug from a plasterboard wall creates a bigger hole which likely won't create a tight fit with a fresh duopower plug. Maybe I'm wrong as I'm only a DIYer, but to me this is the only advantage plasplugs or wall anchors have over these, as rescrewing into them doesn't seem to affect them too badly (and not at all with wall anchors) I guess you could just fill the hole with some sort of drillable filler (but do those fillers really work?) wait for it to dry, and effectively start over. Otherwise just move everything slightly every time you redecorate 😂
Just to say screw fix cost £6.99. Tool station £3.37 being a woman Screwfix wanted me to buy twisted plasterboard fixings . I declined thanks these work a treat
A lot of these fixings assume you will tighten up the screw flush with the wall, which pulls the back of the plug / re-enforcement etc in. I need to hang a mirror and leave the screws proud so the mirror hooks will hang on the screws. A lot of these would fail if you didn't torque up the screw fully and so it makes it a difficult choice for me. Maybe if I used a longer screw the duopower plug would still start to mushroom out and give that flange on the cavity side?
Great video! May I ask a question about the length of Duopower. I have double layer drywall 25mm I guess ..., so what’s the proper length of Duopower I need for my drywall ,? I want to hang a 65 inch TV on that wall..
Any chance of a test of the Fischer Duotec 10... It's a toggle type wall fixing. Interesting for plasterboard cavity walls.. Here in Europe it's around 13€ for a pack of 10 with screws supplied - the price is a bit of a drawback... But for plasterboard ops it seems very good..
Without going back I'm guessing that 300kg on a red plug was with 5.5mm drill bits. As an apprentice electrician back in the day we always ordered 5.5mm masonry bits to get much better fixings with size 4 woodscrews 👍
I think I mentioned in your previous video I think your results are different due to the different densities of the different concrete blocks you are using. Are you able to pop along to your local university and get a friendly material scientist to test them for you? This I feel will explain the different results you are getting.
That’s interesting that you like Fischer fittings. I bought a box of Fischer frame fixings and the screws just kept snapping. I used some cheapo wood screws and they were fine. I assumed all their stuff was rubbish after that.
Great video! Have you tried fischer's new Powerfast II chipboard screw? It's suitable for use in fischer plugs (eg Duopower and UX) and has recommended loads so you can make the most of the load bearing capacity of the plug. The only screw in the world that can do this!
Hi, I have a heavy p[punchbag I want to use. What plugs should I use for it or would you recommend another bolt fixing? The holds on the bracket will fit a M8 screw.
I would think you would use such fasteners to hang things on walls etc. More of a side load then pulling straight out. I live in the states and they are sold at the Home Depot screws included. I like them a lot, it's the only drywall anchor I buy currently.
@gosforthhandyman Hello, I'm just wondering if you can help me? I'm going to wall mount a TV on to a Brick Wall. No bolts were supplied do you think a 8 X 50mm lag bolt is sufficient enough for a UK wall with Plaster on it. I have 10 X 50 plugs. I can't find any 10 X 60 wall plugs. The wall mount instructions recommend a 8 X 60 lag bolt. But I can't find any with a thread to the end. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Andy - does new plasterboard tend to need time to harden / settle? I had the bathroom boarded and skimmed last week and when trying to fit some battens e.t.c. with the duopowers they were just spinning in the holes for me. I tried a 5.5mm drill bit too for a tighter hole but still no joy. Cheers in advance, Dan
@@GosforthHandyman 5mm turbogold, the plugs held for a little bit and then started to spin, I was using 80mm screws to fix a 38mm batten to 12.5mm plasterboard so should have been fine really
Very informative video. Could I use the 'push through' method on dot an dab plasterboard (or even battened plasterboard) ie knock the duo plug through to the brickwork or best leave it flush with the plasterboard (longer screws obviously) ?
A question: if I am later painting a wall with a Fischer Duopower plug installed in the drywall, can the plug be removed (or pushed in deeper) so I can then fill the hole and paint over it?
I'm a little late to the party, but these fancy plugs are the only ones which are working perfectly for me when it comes to those dreaded perforated sandlime bricks. Those, and on questionable roughcast on porotherm clay blocks, too.
Hi.. thanks for the comprehensive and very informative / interesting video.. Ive been using these plugs (and Dial Grey Plugs ) both in 8mm x 40mm but with 4.5mm and 5mm fully threaded screws and have had no problems with pull out or shear, but would be interested in any 'Test Tuesday Results' if you ever compare them with your results here..
I want to buy the 12 and 14 mm DuoPower plugs.I know you can buy the standard plug sizes but The one I want are not listed any where.I have contacted Fischers and no joy????/Do you know the local distributors.Thanks.Great Video.
I want to know how it compares to the standard red plug in plasterboard, and also how it compares to no plugs at all with vertical force. Perhaps also in timber.
I discovered the duopower plugs when I was with my daughter "she insisted i buy them because of the funky colour" I was amazed how well they perform and became my goto plugs - thanks for the tests it reinforces my confidence in them as well :)
For the first time ever, a woman picking something based on only its colour has come in handy 😂
Thanks to this video I started using Fischer Duo Power plugs, both the 6mm and 8mm size, on both interior and exterior fastening jobs. Pictures on interior drywall, shelving in the garage into solid brick and hanging basket plants and exterior decorations, house numbers and the like, outside on solid brick. They have been easy to use and so far I have a 100% success rate. Many thanks.
I bought these today for use in plumbing (fixing shower fittings etc) and was very impressed. They pull tight and feel solid. Will be using these from now on, well worth the money.
Thanks for the tip of using fully-threaded screws for these (and for posting the 5x40mm screws you used)… have had mixed results with these on DIY jobs (screw not tightening, plug spinning), and now I know why! Used a fully-threaded screw with a duo power today, it worked perfectly. Great vid, thanks 👍
Watched this video a while ago now. But not really used these plugs. Last week though I fitted a kitchen using these plugs. Some walls were dot and dabbed and others were solid brick. Loved them. Managed to get the wall brackets tight on every wall. Whereas a lot of times before I've had to mess about trying to get a good fixing. They're great. Definitely going on every job with me now.
As I have now installed thousands of these, I wanted to reiterate two things from this video that are super important when using these: 1) If using your own screws, make sure no unthreaded portion enters the anchor; and 2) do not overtighten, definitely do the final tightening by hand. I've seen too many of these "blow up" because a worker took an impact to them.
You'll end up ballooning the anchor and it ends up mangled and spinning in its hole, which eventually requires drilling it out and installing a more time-consuming snap-toggle instead.
Hi Sakanora, I am curious around the importance of the unthreaded portion not entering the plug. In the video it's not clear why it causes an issue or whether it is only in the plasterboard scenario that is shown. Is it because a portion of the plug does not expand? If that it the main issue, then in solid wall this would lead to reduction in the load bearing relative to the length of the unthreaded portion, but the remainder of the length would expand. Or is there something else I might be missing?
I found these wallplugs then found your review, it helped me no end, as a very basic DIY'er. It enabled me to select the right screws for the first job and the tip about making sure the hole was at least as deep as the screw was very helpful. If there is a way to do something wrong, I can normally find it, but today I hung a 90cm circular mirror and a Gin rack very successfully. Thank you
Great video. Thanks Andy. I've used Fischer reds for years. After watching this vid I tried the DuoPower. Really impressed. You can really smack them hard into a 5.5mm hole without the mouth of the plug mashing over. Great for me when I'm feeling tired and haven't judged the hole depth too well!
Thank you for your great advice. I have just bought a heavy Winmau dartboard. It's 5kg and my wall is plasterboard. I was all set to buy self-drilling screws until I saw your tests, and went out and bought a box of Dupower 6mm instead. Tentatively put up the bracket with two duopower this morning and the board is solid as a rock, even with my lousy DIY. Keep up the good work!
Great stuff! Just be careful as the constant movement of a dartboard (pulling darts out over and over) can exceed what these little plugs can handle. I'd normally use expanding metal anchors for something like this. 👍
@@GosforthHandyman Thanks, that's great advice. I will look to upgrade what I've done and remount the brackets as you've suggested! Cheers!
@GosforthHandyman fantastic video I stumbled across, but what's the difference between the DuoPower and the UX or SX?
watching this video 5 years later as im buying a Winmau dartboard tomorrow, what are the chances! Did your dartboard survive or did you upgrade?!
@@sambobpete It was fine, I then moved home and did the same, and it is still solid, and good as new.
I''ve just stumbled across these since I bought me new home and the reviews I've read are really good, and now thanks to google tracking everything we do on here its recommended your amazing vlog, I've just ordered two types for my drywall to connect a wood frame to it, making a raised feature in my master bedroom. I'm I right in saying that the more I secure the wall with, then the max load is then evenly spread through out the fixings. So to hang a TV on the raised area the more the better. Thanks for the review on these buddy.
Hi Neil,
This is very late and you probably already got it sorted but yes. Each plug has a max 'weight' it can carry. If you divide the load over several plugs the load will be more evenly distributed :)
@@Tomskii5 thanks buddy and my tv wall is still standing six months on, thank you for your reply buddy
@@stomperthemixer1 dont worry if you buy a tv mount it is usually supported by at least 3 plugs. Each tv mount also has a max weight it supports. This combined with good plugs should be perfectly fine.
Hi buddy,
3 Years on, how did the plugs hold up? Just moved into new house, front room wall is plasterboard only and want 50" TV on wall. Will be going straight into the plasterboard, not any studs.
@shaneparry8030 yes still secure and no movement at all, very happy with my purchase
Great video. After a quick research I found out that DuoPower 6 (the one your are using) creates a knot like in your video. The one in the picture is the DuoPower 8
I hope to be helpful :)
I tried to use drywall plastic anchors in masonry and the ones I had didn't work because they bent over before they were fully inserted. No problem, I thought I'd just go to Home Depot and buy plastic anchors for concrete. I couldn't find any labeled as such. I bought some anchors that looked like the plugs I had used before in masonry but they also were labeled as for drywall, but they worked.
It wasn't until I got on the internet and realized that the DuoPower anchors that Home Depot sold were duel purpose . I looked for a review of how well they worked and that's how I happened on this video. Thank you. As an aside, it seems like any anchor that you can get fully embedded into concrete will produce a much stronger connection than is needed for most routine light duty connections to concrete.
I remembered watching this video last year. I have now reviewed it again, and now off to buy some now for a fixing into plasterboard. I will be using with confidence. Thanks.
No worries Brian! Remember I wouldn't particularly recommend these as a dedicated plasterboard fixing, there are better solutions. But these are a good all-round problem solver. Just watch the weight limits suggested by Fischer. 👍
Excellent I’ll be using these plugs as I’ve just moved into a timber framed house & I’ll now be using the fully threaded screws thanks to you 👍
Thanks for the video, Andy. I recently used some of these Fischer DuoPower plugs to attach some bearers to my garage wall to hold up shelves. I must confess that, where possible, I fixed them in the mortar between the bricks. I realise that this is not good practice, but the mortar is sound and gave a good, strong fixing. These plugs are good quality and they're working well for me. The shelves haven't fallen down and there's some pretty heavy stuff on them!
Great stuff - might do a vid about hitting the mortar vs hitting the brick. 👍👍
If you're drilling an internal wall that's plastered, you don't know if you're hitting masonry or mortar.
@@GosforthHandyman please do!
I've only used Fischer DuoFix to hang anything remotely heavy in my house. Absolutely love them. Especially the 10x50 plugs with 5xt0 bolts. They are pricey (5 bucks for 4 plugs and bolts) but its more expensive to replace a tv or two
If you look on amazon (and I'm sure elsewhere) they sell a selection for about $20 that come in a nice Sortimo box (and includes 15 10x50s, 30 8x40 and 60 6x30 - all with bolts/screws).
Brilliant at last I've found real comprehensive tech reviews from someone who appreciates tech specs and data sheets, consider me subscribed bud
Nifty bit of kit!
And great detail as usual Andy.
Cheers bud! 👍👊
Great video without the screeching and grating voices of other youtubers. Excellent review and decent scientific method. Thank you. I hope you’re a Mag....top 10 finish for sure!
Good test. When I use these and the Fischer UX 6 plugs in plaster board cavity walls I drill the smallest hole possible, 5.5 mm in this case and use the smallest recommended diameter fully threaded screw. This helps stop the plug from twisting in the hole as you tighten it, especially in old softer plaster board. I wouldn’t use an impact driver ! and I usually finish tightening the screw by hand.
Yup - on all these test the screws were tightened by hand. 👍
Incredible depthy review of the duopower, great commitment and great video, thanks
A great tip on the screw type, much appreciated
Your videos are so helpful and informative ! Thanks so much for the great content. Using the duopowers in my new house I’m renovating and this video was invaluable !
I've got the 6 x 30 and 8 x 40mm versions. My findings are as follows in 12.5mm plasterboard. The 6 x 30mm version I'm struggling with. I've tried 4mm and 5mm full threaded screws which were long enough to pierce the end of the plug with item to be fixed in place. What I've found with the 5mm screw is it just turns the complete plug round in the hole once the screw gets around halfway down the plug. With the 4mm screw the plug starts to collapse a little bit which ends up wider than the drilled hole but it certainly doesn't really deform that much which is a similar finding to your video. Now, the 8 x 40mm plug I can get repeatable results which are much better. I've tried both the 4mm and 5mm diameter screws and the plug really deforms a treat, spreading out very well behind the plasterboard. I think I will have to try another kind of small plasterboard plug.
Great stuff! I must admit, although I like the DuoPower as a problem solver, I do prefer the Fischer GP/LDF fixings for lightweight use for the reasons you say - less inclined to rotate. I generally use the expanding metal fixings with a setting tool for heavier stuff. 👍
@@GosforthHandyman Hi, thanks for your reply. I will have to look into the GP/LDF fixing, see what they're all about. Nice videos BTW.
I just do DIY work and these plugs are my absolute go to.
Agreed that the Fischer Duopower plugs are game-changing. However, care must be taken not to oversize the hole for the plug as the anti-rotation wings are not very large. Suggest using 5.5mm drill to ensure a snug fit in all substrates.
I sometimes drill 1mm undersize in my plasterboard walls with thermalite blocks. It's easy to damage the plasterboard (oversize) leading to a loose fitting. A twist drill gives a cleaner cut and copes with thermalite blocks easily. Over the decades I've used larger and larger plugs - the 1980s rawl plugs pull out eventually. Nothing less than Fisher 8x40 or 10x50 these days.
@@paulhadley9047 Can I ask what diameter screws do you use with the 8x40 and 10x50 plugs? And what series of Fischer plugs are these? They make them in duo power but also UX.
@@lancearmstrong3252 Hi, for strength I always go for the largest diameter recommended for the plug.
If the plug says 6 to 8mm I find 6mm can spin in the nylon, but 8mm is firm.
Length is important, must be slightly longer than plug depth in wall.
For 10x50 I have had good success with long concrete screws from Screwfix. 7.5mm x 100mm.
There is a UX 10x60, with long concrete screws I had a solid support for IKEA support rail for kitchen cabinets. The long screw penetrates the block behind the plug, I mark plug depth with tape on drill.
I'd like to see a review of Fischer FIS polyester injection mortar. I found this stuff very handy for fixings in aerated concrete, but it would be great to see your pull tests on it.
Love your video. Thanks. I will not be hesitating to use it on my wall any more.:)
Impressive testing! Oh the joy of incomprehensible test results :-)
Thank you Andy. Great tutorial as usual. I will purchase these plugs this weekend.
Excellent video and perfect timing with the info for some work I need to do. Just been put on to your channel and plenty of excellent vids on here, I appreciate your thorough testing!
Your video was very helpful in choosing right plug
I love these anchors for plaster. Sometimes put in some 5 minute epoxy or insert scrap end of nylon tie between anchor and wall if it spins.
I’ll give those Fischers a go, never used them before and usually use the cheap plasplugs, nice one great review 👍
I use the DuoPower when I need a reliable fixing in tile/plasterboard situations. Saw them used on 10 Minute (ish) Workshop.
Fischer-Plugs are the best for my and my house. Fischer-Dübel sind die Bestern für mich und mein Haus. Greets from Germany
Nice video, been using these awhile now without issues!
Please tell me how you hooked a data logger up to that crane scale;)
Duopower are so good. Use them from the beginning and replaced all other plugs except the special plugs.
Another great vid, been using them for 6months now and I like them.
Interesting what you said about push through fittings, I have little experience doing them. Would appreciate a how to vid if you get the time.
Thanks Andy. 👍
Nice video. I enjoy a bit of technical detail.
Been using the grey Fisher plugs (even the cheeper copy long before that from dial at the big orange warehouse DIY store and before that at the blue background with white letters starting with W.) So much better than basic plugs due to the square head to stop rotation. Great for brick, block and plasterboard.
Not had such consistent results with the red ones. I also tap them just below the surface with solid material as it's easier to plaster over when no longer needed, better than trying to dig them out and they can't be tapped in after use as they are solidly bonded in.
Would 6/8 of these work in a double skinned plasterboard wall for hanging a 50” TV ?? Thanks for the video
Good solid data Andy,you definitely need a white coat on test Tuesday though!👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Could you also do a test of these in hollow concrete? In Germany it's quite normal to have brick/sandstone with holes in them for walls dividing rooms. Fischer says an 8x40mm plug can hold about 25kg, making no difference between the SX plus and these Duo Power plugs in their rating. Would be nice to see a real world comparison.
It would be great to know how these test would go with 4mm and 4.5mm diameter screws as well as 5mm. My experience with the Fischer DuoPower is that they work best at a bit below the maximum size screw diameter.
Will try - I'd have to buy even more screws as all my 4 & 4.5 are TurboGold. 😂👍
Fischer provides information about which screws to use on their website. for the 6x30 it is 4-5 mm screws for wood with at least 35mm length (depending on the head). So your observation is right.
Why do you think that the smaller screw would be better? I would have thought that the bigger screw would make a tighter seal, but you reckon the smaller screw would be better?
The first one I ever installed in plasterboard ended up just spinning. I could feel the plastic giving way as I tightened the provided screw.
the fishcher ones have a pretty thick shaft at the hole so if you have crumbling in some walls it prevents them from spinning compared to the regular ones
The best UA-cam channel ever
When we - Canada - buy the Fischer plugs they come in a kit,so you get screws and plugs.
Fischer Duopower are proven at fixing into Porotherm clay blocks too. A great allrounder!
Andy, Toolstation are currently doing the 6 x 30mm Duopower plugs for just £3.75 per hundred .
Wow - that's a great price! 👍
Always worth checking out Tool station, I often find them cheaper for many items.
Brilliant review, genuinely helpful. Top man!
As far as I know, your tests are the best on UA-cam!
Thanks bud! 👍👊
Is there a weight limit determined by the plasterboard itself? For example, I guess screwing a TV mounting plate using 4 of these could in theory easily support a 25-30kg TV, but would the downward force cause the plasterboard to crumple or give way, no matter how good the fixing?
I wouldn't use 4 of these for a 30kg TV in plasterboard. You'd really need something more substantial - depends on the bracket. 👍
Depending on the TV and type of mount, often you really need a stud or two, and that is best practice. But a lightweight TV with a flush mount, a stud isn't necessary as long as the wall is in good condition. Metal Snaptoggles are the strongest anchor for that in drywall, though there are other options.
You've convinced me to try these in place of my Uno's.
It'd be interesting to see a Test Tuesday comparing the aerated block to other household objects, such as a loaf of bread, to see which is stronger. I'd put my money on the bread!
From my past experience, different brands of plasterboard can have completely different strengths, even with the same thickness. We used to get our Plasterboard from B&Q as we used to live a couple minute drive from one, but at the new house we have an MKM literally across the road so we decided to get it from there instead and it's a lot stiffer.
Same thickness? Never noticed a huge difference between brands - but yes, aerated blocks. Still beyond me how they support the weight of a house. 😂
@@GosforthHandyman Yep, both 12.5mm
....only if the loaf is stale.. 😏
😎👍☘
Interesting video on an overlooked issue
Great video, I was looking at these plugs but never realised it was quite so versatile. I have to say, I generally use the red EasyFix plugs form Screwfix at 59p for 100 rather than the £7 for 100 that the price is today for the duo. I noticed they do a Rawlplug red as well. That might be a test for the future that helps to show that whether the cost makes a difference. Just a couple of tests on each of the red plugs all the way up to the Fischer one? Anyway, Thanks again for the effort you went to.
Hi Andy, are you still using DuoPower or have you gone back to red plugs?
Great video, thanks for sharing! At 7:07 you speak about the hammer action of your drill.
When do you (in person) use that? Doing DIY for about 30 years now, I gradually came to the conclusion that I need the hammer action of a drill only
for drilling in concrete or hard natural rock walls (ceilings/floors). For bricks and other light weight construction wall blocks I prefer without.
Maybe it goes a little bit slower but in my eyes the hole keeps better the diameter what was aimed for.
I'd like to hear your opinion on that.
I really like these, but my only concern is how do they perform if you need to temporarily remove something that is fixed to the wall to redecorate? I haven't yet had to do this but it seems they probably have a reusability of maybe three times before the plug becomes completely chewed up.... then you would need to pull it out of the wall and replace with a new one. Not as issue cost wise, but I can imagine removing the mangled plug from a plasterboard wall creates a bigger hole which likely won't create a tight fit with a fresh duopower plug.
Maybe I'm wrong as I'm only a DIYer, but to me this is the only advantage plasplugs or wall anchors have over these, as rescrewing into them doesn't seem to affect them too badly (and not at all with wall anchors)
I guess you could just fill the hole with some sort of drillable filler (but do those fillers really work?) wait for it to dry, and effectively start over. Otherwise just move everything slightly every time you redecorate 😂
Just to say screw fix cost £6.99. Tool station £3.37 being a woman Screwfix wanted me to buy twisted plasterboard fixings . I declined thanks these work a treat
A lot of these fixings assume you will tighten up the screw flush with the wall, which pulls the back of the plug / re-enforcement etc in. I need to hang a mirror and leave the screws proud so the mirror hooks will hang on the screws. A lot of these would fail if you didn't torque up the screw fully and so it makes it a difficult choice for me. Maybe if I used a longer screw the duopower plug would still start to mushroom out and give that flange on the cavity side?
Did you find out the answer? Exactly the question I have as I want to hang a mirror and never had plasterboard walls before. Thanks
So with the duopower you cannot do knock through installation? (such as attaching skirting)
No he said you can.
Would these be suitable for fix Venetian blinds to plasterboard walls hanging from the top of the recess?
Great video! May I ask a question about the length of Duopower. I have double layer drywall 25mm I guess ..., so what’s the proper length of Duopower I need for my drywall ,? I want to hang a 65 inch TV on that wall..
Any chance of a test of the Fischer Duotec 10... It's a toggle type wall fixing. Interesting for plasterboard cavity walls.. Here in Europe it's around 13€ for a pack of 10 with screws supplied - the price is a bit of a drawback... But for plasterboard ops it seems very good..
Without going back I'm guessing that 300kg on a red plug was with 5.5mm drill bits. As an apprentice electrician back in the day we always ordered 5.5mm masonry bits to get much better fixings with size 4 woodscrews 👍
I think I mentioned in your previous video I think your results are different due to the different densities of the different concrete blocks you are using. Are you able to pop along to your local university and get a friendly material scientist to test them for you? This I feel will explain the different results you are getting.
It's the same block! 👍
@@GosforthHandyman wooow this is getting almost Agatha Christie
Fantastic I need to hang a lot of pictures into plasterboard ,now I know what to buy 😀
Love all flags on the wall.
Cheers Andy, this will be my go-to plug from now on. P.s love yr videos, keep em comin 👍
That’s interesting that you like Fischer fittings. I bought a box of Fischer frame fixings and the screws just kept snapping. I used some cheapo wood screws and they were fine. I assumed all their stuff was rubbish after that.
Interesting! They weren't stainless steel were they? Stainless is softer. Only generally use my own screws.
Great video! Have you tried fischer's new Powerfast II chipboard screw? It's suitable for use in fischer plugs (eg Duopower and UX) and has recommended loads so you can make the most of the load bearing capacity of the plug. The only screw in the world that can do this!
Hi, I have a heavy p[punchbag I want to use. What plugs should I use for it or would you recommend another bolt fixing? The holds on the bracket will fit a M8 screw.
I would think you would use such fasteners to hang things on walls etc. More of a side load then pulling straight out.
I live in the states and they are sold at the Home Depot screws included. I like them a lot, it's the only drywall anchor I buy currently.
@gosforthhandyman Hello, I'm just wondering if you can help me? I'm going to wall mount a TV on to a Brick Wall. No bolts were supplied do you think a 8 X 50mm lag bolt is sufficient enough for a UK wall with Plaster on it. I have 10 X 50 plugs. I can't find any 10 X 60 wall plugs. The wall mount instructions recommend a 8 X 60 lag bolt. But I can't find any with a thread to the end. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Same issue, cant find any full thread coach screws. Dis you have any luck, what did you do in the end?
Can you do more pull out tests in thermalite like rigifix and bigger wall plugs
I always use half a size down on the drill bit for a snug fit
Hi. Any idea when to use Fischer DuoPower and when to use Fischer UX? They are both marketed as "multi-material" wall plugs.
Will these 6*30 plugs with 5*40 screws be enough for mounting a rail for kitchen cabinets?
Hi Andy - does new plasterboard tend to need time to harden / settle? I had the bathroom boarded and skimmed last week and when trying to fit some battens e.t.c. with the duopowers they were just spinning in the holes for me. I tried a 5.5mm drill bit too for a tighter hole but still no joy. Cheers in advance, Dan
Potentially. What size screw?
@@GosforthHandyman 5mm turbogold, the plugs held for a little bit and then started to spin, I was using 80mm screws to fix a 38mm batten to 12.5mm plasterboard so should have been fine really
Will these be good enough for hanging curtains up
Very informative video. Could I use the 'push through' method on dot an dab plasterboard (or even battened plasterboard) ie knock the duo plug through to the brickwork or best leave it flush with the plasterboard (longer screws obviously) ?
Hi, The difference with the concrete block is that the internal surface is TOO HARD to allow the plastic fixing to do it's job. It can't change shape.
A question: if I am later painting a wall with a Fischer Duopower plug installed in the drywall, can the plug be removed (or pushed in deeper) so I can then fill the hole and paint over it?
Any idea about the fixing in 13:38 of the Make and Model? Thanks
I'm a little late to the party, but these fancy plugs are the only ones which are working perfectly for me when it comes to those dreaded perforated sandlime bricks. Those, and on questionable roughcast on porotherm clay blocks, too.
Hi.. thanks for the comprehensive and very informative / interesting video..
Ive been using these plugs (and Dial Grey Plugs ) both in 8mm x 40mm but with 4.5mm and 5mm fully threaded screws and have had no problems with pull out or shear, but would be interested in any 'Test Tuesday Results' if you ever compare them with your results here..
Why is the screw diameter given, but not the length? Does it not matter, so long as it's beyond the depth of the plug + screw diameter in mm? Cheers.
I want to buy the 12 and 14 mm DuoPower plugs.I know you can buy the standard plug sizes but The one I want are not listed any where.I have contacted Fischers and no joy????/Do you know the local distributors.Thanks.Great Video.
Hi there. Can you use longer screws than the length of the plug?
I got some Fischer FIS VL 300 T to anchor my screws. But the instructions are in Czech. How do I use this stuff?
Excellent video. Thanks 🫡
I want to know how it compares to the standard red plug in plasterboard, and also how it compares to no plugs at all with vertical force. Perhaps also in timber.
Did you compare those with the Duoblade? What is the different use case? Also why plugging tru the wood can be useful?
So what's best one to use in a brick wall for a punching bag bracket? Cheers
What is the length of the screw your useing
Can I remove them or cover over them after my rental ends?