How to mount dryer to wall?

[Gumball73]

I'm trying to mount a tumble dryer to the wall in my laundry but the joists are further apart than the width of the unit. Is there a way you can fix to the dry wall? Thanks 👍 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Gumball73,

You might like to check out this discussion: How to mount a dryer to the wall with only one stud?

The most common solution in this situation is to span the gap with another piece of timber. You fix that timber securely into the studs with long timber screws, then mount the dryer’s bracket onto the timber. This gives you a solid, continuous fixing surface even though the studs do not line up with the width of the dryer. It is a simple and reliable way to ensure the weight of the dryer is carried through the studs rather than the plasterboard, and it is the method most installers use in laundries.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Gumball73]

Thanks for getting back to me. It seems I'll need to put a top and bottom batten in as the distance between joists is less than the unit. What size of wood would you recommend?

Thanks again for your help

[EricL]

Hello @Gumball73 

I suggest using 90 x 45 framing timber in order for the dryer bracket screws to get a good solid grip. I propose using Buildex® 14G x 100mm Class 4 Bugle Batten Screws - 25 pack to anchor the timber to the studs. My best advice is to drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the timber.

Eric

[Gumball73]

I've just noticed the instructions say 90x35 batten held to the wall with 6x70 coach screws and 6x 30mm for the brackets. Will 6x70 coach screws be suitable for the slightly thicker batten? Thanks again 👍 

[EricL]

Hello @Gumball73 

It would be better to use longer screws for a secure hold. If the batten is 35mm thick and the screw is only 70mm long only half the length of the screw would be used for anchoring. If you take into account the thickness of the plasterboard which is conservatively 10mm, then only 25mm will actually be anchored to the timber stud. For the thicker batten which is 45mm it would be best use a 100mm length screw as 45mm will be used to hold the timber piece, 10mm will go to the plasterboard which leaves you with 45mm to anchor into the timber stud.  

Eric