Sometimes I just lean heavy stuff against the wall and call it a day... saves patching holes later.
Honestly, I’ve done the same with a big old frame—just propped it on a sideboard and called it “intentional.” Load distribution’s always a puzzle, but hey, if it’s still standing, you did something right. Sometimes creativity beats perfect technique.
Sometimes creativity beats perfect technique.
That’s the spirit. I’ve got a 1920s plaster wall that’s seen better days, and honestly, I’m terrified of putting any more holes in it. I’ve leaned mirrors and even a heavy old clock on a mantel for years—never had an issue. Ever notice how older homes seem to have their own “rules” about what they’ll tolerate? I do wonder sometimes if I’m just getting away with it, though... anyone else ever have something suddenly tip over after months of being fine?
I get what you mean about old houses having their quirks. I’ve noticed that sometimes things seem stable for ages, then one day—out of nowhere—they shift or fall. I think it’s partly the way weight settles over time, especially with plaster and lath. I’ve started using museum putty for leaning stuff, just in case. It’s not foolproof, but it gives me a little peace of mind.
Yeah, totally get where you’re coming from. Old houses have a mind of their own sometimes. Museum putty’s a smart move—little tricks like that really help. Even with all the planning, some things just shift over time, and that’s normal. Don’t stress too much if it happens again... you’re definitely not alone in this.
Load distribution in old houses is honestly one of those things that keeps surprising me, no matter how many times I think I’ve got it figured out. I remember trying to put up a heavy bookshelf in my 1920s place—checked the studs, measured everything twice, used anchors, the whole deal. A month later, the shelf was tilting like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Turns out, the wall wasn’t just slightly bowed... it was basically waving at me.
Have you ever noticed how sometimes you can do everything “right” and the floor still creaks or things shift? I used to think it was just bad luck, but now I wonder if it’s just the house settling in ways we can’t predict. Ever tried shimming something only to have the shim pop out after a season change? Drives me nuts. Do you find certain rooms are worse than others, or is it just random spots for you?
