ADD BLOCKING! It’s just a scrap piece of wood installed between the wall studs before drywall goes up. But that one step gives you a solid surface to screw into so fixtures actually stay put.
If you’re mid-build or planning a renovation, ask your contractor to throw in some scrap wood for blocking where you need it. These are the three spots you definitely don’t want to forget.
Towel Bar Blocking
Towel bars take more wear and tear than you’d think, especially if your kids are the ones yanking the towels down. If you’re just using drywall anchors, the bar is going to loosen over time. Blocking gives you a reliable nailing surface that’s not going to shift or tear out of the wall.
The best part? You can use scrap wood that’s already lying around on-site. Just make sure the towel bar location is marked clearly before drywall goes up.
Toilet Paper Holder Blocking
This one always gets overlooked because it seems light and easy to mount … until you realize you’re pulling on it every single day. Anchors might hold up at first, but after a few months of daily use, they usually start wiggling loose. A simple block between studs makes sure it stays rock solid.
Hand Towel and Curtain Rod Blocking
The same logic applies to hand towel holders, especially near sinks where people are frequently drying off their hands. While you’re at it, add blocking for your curtain rod if you’re doing a tub and shower combo. That’s another spot that gets a lot of tension and weight, especially if someone tugs on it by accident.
Don’t Miss The Details
These are the things that make your house feel finished. One scrap board now saves you patching holes later. If you're planning a build or renovation, the Ultimate Home Building Checklist helps you spot every opportunity to make smarter decisions before the walls are sealed up. It covers every phase of the build and it's packed with details you'll wish you had if you try to wing it without one.
