How to fix loose ceiling light fitting screw?

[softkun123]

A screw from the ceiling light timber has come loose and cannot be tightened. How can this issue be resolved, and is it indicative of a more significant problem beyond simply repositioning the screw?

 

  

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @softkun123,

I wouldn't say this is indicative of a bigger issue. It looks like a fairly old light fitting and over time the very slight movement of the house has made the screw works its way free.

I'd suggest simply moving the fixing over slightly and using a suitable anchor before reinstalling the screw.

If your ceiling is plasterboard or fibre cement sheeting, use a Ramset 16mm Hollow Wall Anchor, if it is concrete, use a masonry plug with the existing screw.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[softkun123]

Yes it's plasterboard ceiling.

1) Does this hollow wall anchors requires setting tool?

Also I would need screw length of may be 60mm or 65mm due to timber light fixing. What screw would go with this anchor?

2) are there any other plasterboard plugs without need of setting tool that would go with my requirement?

[JacobZ]

Hi @softkun123,

I had thought it was fibre cement, which is why I recommended the hollow wall anchor.

Knowing it is plasterboard, I'd change the anchor to a WallMate, which is easier to use, simply being rotated through the hole in the plasterboard, and not requiring a setting tool.

You could then use a 65mm Plasterboard Screw to attach the light fitting to the WallMate.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob

[Noyade]

Afternoon @softkun123 

Just going with @JacobZ 's hollow wall anchor suggestion - I think it's a good one.

"Does this hollow wall anchors requires setting tool?"

Yes, but generic kits are very good and inexpensive - you'll never regret the purchase as a home owner.

Many different sizes and very strong, and yes, you can mix and match lengths - this is M4 @ 70mm.

[softkun123]

Hi

Can I use timber 10g screw length of 65cm for the anchor I purchased as seen in pic? 

Though the cover says to use 6-8g of screw length 40mm

 

[EricL]

Hello @softkun123 

Although the Wallmate piece will accommodate the 10g screw, I don't recommend doing it as it will damage the Wallmate anchor itself. There is the possibility that it will crack or split and get over driven into the plaster, thereby weaking its hold on the plaster board itself. I therefore suggest using the correct screw size or getting a Wallmate that is rated for the larger screw.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[softkun123]

1)Can you point me wallmate anchor that would use larger screw say up ,10g and 60 mm timber screw?

2) also from pic below can you tell me whether ceiling is fibrous cement or plasterboard?

 

[EricL]

Hello @softkun123 

It appears to be fibrous cement, but in either case I suggest using Ramset M5 x 9mm Plasterboard Hollow Wall Anchor in combination with a Ramset Hollow Wall Anchor Setting Tool. It is a worthwhile investment and can be used for future projects especially if you are hanging pictures.

If you need further assistance, please let me know.

Eric

[softkun123]

which generic kit are you using?