Putting up a lightweight picture on drywall is an easy task that can be accomplished with a tack nail and small hammer. However, mounting business signs or art on materials such as brick, concrete and stucco presents more of a challenge and requires an anchoring system. Follow these steps to ensure your sign is mounted securely to protect both the sign and the wall.

1. Gauge the weight and dimensions of the item

The heavier and bulkier the sign or piece of art, the more heavy-duty the mounting hardware should be. If a sign is flat and weighs less than five pounds then concrete screws should be sufficient to hang it without damaging the wall. Anything heavier than that requires the use of a “molly,” which is a metal or plastic insert. When a screw is inserted into the molly it splits, pushing against the sides of the hole and creating pressure to strengthen the hold. A heavy item that protrudes from the wall requires more hold strength than an item that hangs flat against the wall since it acts as a lever, with gravity trying pry it out of the wall.

2. Measure twice, drill once

Use a measuring tape and level to determine the hole placement. Use chalk or a wax pencil to mark the holes and check again that they are accurately spaced and level. Use a masonry bit to drill holes that are slightly smaller than the mollies (you can always drill a bigger hole, but you can’t drill a smaller one!). A standard drill bit can break in hard material such as concrete or brick and forcing pressure can crack stucco, so ensure you have a masonry bit prior to drilling.

3. Mount the hardware

Ensure the molly is the right size for the hole: if it’s too small there won’t be enough pressure and if it’s too large it won’t go into the hole all the way. Hammer in the mollies and screw in the concrete screws and hanging hardware. If there are multiple holes, screw each one in partially before tightening. If the installation is outdoors be certain to use waterproof hardware so ugly rust streaks don’t form on the wall.

Finally, hang the sign! These methods should work for most conventional projects. If the sign is an electrical sign or is so large a ladder and multiple people are needed for installation you may consider having a sign professional install it for you. Good luck!