Please advice how remove these nylon wall plugs. I need to remove them carefully without scratching or damaging metal around them. I have managed to remove one of them but it was a bit loose, so it came out relatively easy.
Hello @alex27
Thank you for sharing your question about nylon wall plugs.
You'll notice that the "nail" used in the wall plug actually has some shallow threads along its body. The first technique I would suggest is to use a flat head screwdriver and slowly unscrewing the nail out of the nylon body. You can then use pliers to remove the nail and then remove the nylon insert after that.
My next suggestion is to use a https://www.bunnings.com.au/trojan-75mm-paint-scraper_p0093213 as a safety cover and place its edge on the edge of the nylon plug. I then suggest using a https://www.bunnings.com.au/craftright-18mm-snap-off-knife_p5760321 to cut the nylon head off. As you go around the nylon head make sure to keep the scraper under the knife to prevent scratching the downpipe strap. When the nail head is exposed, you can then use pliers to pull it out. You can then use a drill with a drill bit to drill through the nylon body and shred it to bits.
Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @TedBear and @Noyade for their recommendations.
Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves and goggles.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Thanks @EricL for your suggestions.
I have already tried to unscrew the nails but it did go well unfortunately, I have broken the screwdriver.
I will try other suggestions
Please keep us updated with your progress, we look forward to seeing the nylon plugs removed.
Good Afternoon @alex27
I think you may have a hardish job to remove the nails without marking the paint (Id have a back up plan with the same colour spray paint)
Using that paint scraper that @EricL has mentioned I would place it next to the nylon cap, then I would use a thin nut solid flat head screwdriver or another smaller paint scraper in width. Then tap gently with a hammer the handle so you are driving the small flathead/paint scraper under the nylon cap with the larger paint scraper as a protector of the paint surface plus give a small rise for leaving effect. Those type of masonry securing pins arnt really meant to come out. The ribs on the nail is to create friction to hold it in place. You use a hammer to nail it home.
If the levering of the nylon dosnt work then id try the process again with the levering of the metal nail. (Less to grip) is my main reason for suggesting to try it secondly.
Dave
I'd revisit the screwdriver idea, @alex27. The fixing is threaded, so it is designed to be unscrewed. It might be worth trying another screwdriver. If the first broke, it might not have been of the best quality.
Mitchell
Hi @alex27
In my experience, attempting to remove them with a bladed screwdriver is near impossible, considering they were hammered in to begin with. I get them out quite easily with a nail puller. Just a few firm taps under the nail/nylon head pierce and simply pry them out either all the way or enough to pull the screw nail out first. Nailbag
I have always used a good sized pair of wire cutters to go around the nylon head and then a claw hammer to remove them as you would a nail. Always hated tapins for this reason, the screwdriver slot is cheaply made and always is hard to get any purchase on.
Pincers for me.
Pincers
And 'roll' them over a with a thick piece of cardboard underneath, so you don't scratch that paint.
Good luck!
Hi @alex27, I find that those plugs are generally easy to remove. The screw driver slot will only allow you to unscrew the head a little, so that you can then use a claw hammer to pull the centre pin out. Then lever the nylon body out. Use cardboard, as already suggested, to protect the wall surface.
