I’ve used a plywood backer behind a cleat for heavy shelves, and it made a big difference. Not pretty, but it works when you’re out of options.
I get the plywood backer approach, but I’ve actually had better luck chasing the studs directly—even in old plaster. Sometimes you have to poke around a bit to find solid wood, but once you do, a long screw or lag bolt can hold way more than any anchor in crumbly plaster. The plywood trick works, but it can look clunky unless you’re planning to cover it up. If you’re after a cleaner look, I’d map out the stud locations and run your cleat or shelf brackets right into those. It’s a bit more work upfront, but you won’t have to worry about things pulling out down the line.
Funny, I’ve done both—plywood backers and just hunting for studs—and I totally get where you’re coming from.
That’s been my experience too. Still, sometimes those old walls don’t have studs where you want them, and the plywood is a lifesaver. Ever try using French cleats with hidden fasteners? It can help keep things tidy if you’re worried about the look. Don’t sweat it—load distribution trips up everyone at some point.“a long screw or lag bolt can hold way more than any anchor in crumbly plaster”
“a long screw or lag bolt can hold way more than any anchor in crumbly plaster”
Totally agree, but man, I’ve had some old lath and plaster walls that just laughed at my best lag bolts. Ended up using a combo of plywood and French cleats once—looked like overkill, but at least my shelves didn’t crash down on my plants. Sometimes you gotta get creative when the studs are playing hide and seek.
Funny you mention the French cleat trick—I’ve done that too, especially when the stud finder just gives me static. Sometimes, it feels like those old walls have a mind of their own. I’ve had luck screwing a strip of 3/4" plywood across several studs and mounting everything to that. Spreads the load out, saves your wall, and gives you some wiggle room for placement. It’s not always pretty, but it sure beats patching holes every few months.
You’re not alone—those old walls are like a box of surprises. I’ve run into the same thing, and honestly, your plywood trick is a lifesaver. I did something similar in my last place, but used reclaimed wood to keep things eco-friendly. It wasn’t the prettiest, but it held up way better than my first attempt (which ended with a shelf crashing down at 2am). Sometimes function just wins out over looks, especially when you’re trying to avoid patching drywall every other weekend.