How to remove wall plugs

Got a wall plug, also known as a rawlplug, you want to remove from a wall? You can normally just tap unwanted wall plugs into the wall and then fill over them, but removing them could create a more seamless finish and blank canvas. Here, we’ll show you how to remove wall plugs quickly and easily.

How to remove wall plugs

What you’ll need

• Screw
• Screwdriver
• Claw hammer
• Block or wedge

Step one: insert your screw

Use a screw that fits into the hole and insert it partway. Screw it in with your fingers to start with and then finish off with a screwdriver or drill.

Just make sure not to insert it too deep, otherwise, the wall plug will expand and refuse to come out. Likewise, make sure you don’t use a screw that’s too big.

Step two: grab your screw with the prongs of your claw hammer

Place the prongs of your claw hammer around the screw and place a block or wedge beneath it. A block of wood would be perfect.

Step three: lever the screw out

Use your claw hammer to lever the screw out of the hole. You may be able to do this without the block of wood, but often, the block will help to give you more leverage.

The wall plug should come out attached to the screw.

Step four: fill the hole

Now that your wall plug has been removed, your hole is ready for filling!

If the hole is indoors then some filler should do the trick. Let it dry then sand it so that it’s flush with the rest of the wall and then touch up with some paint. Alternatively, if the hole is located outdoors, you can use mortar or silicone to fill it and therefore protect the brickwork from frost damage.

Removing wall plugs key takeaways

As you can see, removing wall plugs isn’t rocket science although it can be a bit fiddly. Just bear these tips in mind to remove your wall plugs smoothly and efficiently.

• Ensure that the screw you use isn’t too big
• Don’t insert the screw too far – a few threads should be sufficient
• If you don’t have a claw hammer, you can use pliers or a small pry bar to grab the screw. Use the block or wedge to give you leverage.

If you’re short on time or you’re struggling to get your wall plug out of the wall, don’t worry. A handyperson near you will be able to help.