How to Install a Towel Rack - Step-by-Step Guide
Published: 08/18/2025
When it comes to bathroom upgrades, installing a new towel rack might seem like a small task, but it can quickly turn into a headache if you don’t know how to work with different wall materials. At Dragonstone Construction LLC, we’ve seen drywall crumble, tile crack, and concrete resist even the best drills. The key to success is understanding your wall type, using the right anchors, and following a process built for lasting results.
Page Breakdown
Understanding Your Wall Type
Choosing the Right Anchors
Installing a Towel Rack on Drywall
Installing a Towel Rack on Tile
Installing a Towel Rack on Concrete or Masonry
Common Mistakes to Avoid
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
FAQs on Towel Rack Installation
Understanding Your Wall Type
Before you start, it’s crucial to know what kind of wall you’re dealing with. The approach for drywall, tile, or concrete varies significantly, and the wrong choice can damage your wall or cause your towel rack to pull out over time.
Drywall – Soft, hollow sound when tapped; very common in bathrooms.
Tile – Smooth, glossy, cold surface; usually in showers or near tubs.
Concrete/Masonry – Heavy, solid feel; found in basements or exterior bathroom walls.
Knowing this first step sets you up for success and helps you avoid costly mistakes later.
Choosing the Right Anchors
Anchors are the hidden heroes that keep your towel rack secure. Here’s what we recommend:
Drywall: Use metal toggle bolts or molly anchors if you’re not hitting a stud. They expand behind the wall and provide long-term stability.
Tile: Use plastic anchors with screws, or wingnuts for more strength. Always drill slowly with a carbide or diamond bit.
Concrete/Masonry: Masonry screws or anchors are the gold standard. Adhesive racks can work for light use, but for durability, drilling is best.
👉 Pro Tip: Studs are usually spaced 16 inches apart. If you can hit one, you’ll have a rock-solid installation without the need for anchors.
Installing a Towel Rack on Drywall
Drywall is the easiest surface to work with, but it’s also the weakest if you don’t anchor properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Locate studs with a stud finder, or mark your spot for anchors if no stud is available.
Measure and level the towel rack height. Mark screw locations.
Drill pilot holes with the right size bit. For toggle anchors, the hole must allow the wings to fold in.
Insert anchors snugly into the drywall.
Install brackets using screws, making sure the rack is level.
Secure the bar and tighten set screws.
⚒️ Handy Tip: Always test the rack’s stability with a gentle pull—wet towels are heavy, and you don’t want surprises later.
Installing a Towel Rack on Tile
Tile installation takes more care. Cracking the tile is the most common mistake, so patience is key.
Mark and tape your drilling spots. Painter’s tape prevents slipping.
Drill slowly with a tile-rated bit (diamond or carbide tip). Never use a hammer drill.
Insert anchors or screws. If a stud is behind the tile, drill directly into it.
Attach brackets carefully—do not overtighten.
Secure towel bar and check alignment.
⚒️ Handy Tip: For high-moisture areas like showers, choose stainless steel screws to prevent rust.
Installing a Towel Rack on Concrete or Masonry
Concrete walls demand heavy-duty tools. Here’s how:
Prep the wall—clean off dust for better adhesion or drilling.
Mark holes for your rack brackets.
Drill with a masonry bit, steady and slow.
Insert masonry anchors flush with the surface.
Attach brackets with screws.
Mount towel rack and test strength.
👉 Alternative: For rental units or when drilling isn’t an option, use high-grade adhesive towel racks—but only for light loads.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using weak plastic anchors in drywall.
Forgetting to check for level before drilling.
Overtightening screws on tile, which leads to cracks.
Rushing drilling on masonry and stripping anchors.
Mounting directly into drywall without studs or anchors.
These mistakes are why many DIY towel rack installs fail.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY is best if you have the right tools, are comfortable with drilling, and your wall is drywall with studs.
Hire a handyman in Branson if you’re working with tile or concrete, don’t have anchors on hand, or want a clean, polished job with zero risk.
As the best handyman in the Branson and Tri-Lakes area, we’ve installed countless towel racks, grab bars, and other bathroom upgrades. A small job like this can easily be bundled with other home repairs or projects—saving you time and hassle.
FAQs on Towel Rack Installation
Do towel racks need to go into studs?
Not always, but studs provide the strongest hold. If studs don’t line up, use anchors rated for at least 30 lbs.
How do I avoid cracking tile?
Drill slowly with a carbide or diamond-tipped bit, use painter’s tape, and avoid overtightening.
What’s the best anchor for drywall?
Metal toggle bolts or molly anchors. Avoid cheap plastic anchors, as they pull out easily.
Can I install a towel rack on concrete without drilling?
Yes, but adhesive racks are best for lightweight towels and short-term use. For permanent installs, masonry anchors are the way to go.
Should I hire a professional?
If you value speed, precision, and durability—yes. Hiring a Branson handyman ensures the rack is level, secure, and damage-free.
Final Thoughts
Installing a towel rack isn’t rocket science, but it does take the right knowledge, tools, and patience. Whether you’re working with fragile tile, crumbly drywall, or solid concrete, choosing the correct anchors and method makes all the difference.
At Dragonstone Construction LLC, we believe every home upgrade—big or small—deserves to be done right the first time. From towel racks to full remodels, we’re here to make your bathroom stronger, smarter, and more functional.
Slaying problems. Forging trust. One project at a time.
Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only. Every home and project is unique, and results may vary depending on wall type, materials, and tools used. Dragonstone Construction LLC is not responsible for any damage, injury, or issues resulting from do-it-yourself work based on this guide. For the safest and most reliable results, consider hiring a licensed handyman or contractor.