A stud finder is a small handheld device that you run across a surface like a wall or ceiling. When a stud or joist is located, the stud finder usually lights up or makes a noise. Run your stud finder along the ceiling until you locate a ceiling joist. When it lights up, you’ve found a joist. You should find at least two joists, as you’ll be drilling four or more holes in a rectangular shape to hang your pot rack. If you don’t have ceiling joists, you’ll need to use anchors to attach the rack to your ceiling. [1] X Expert Source Jason PhillipHandyman Expert Interview. 2 July 2020.

You will probably need to use a power drill to drill the holes. If you don’t have one, you can purchase one at a local hardware store or borrow one from a friend. You will need to insert an appropriate sized drill bit into your power drill. Refer to the instructions manual that came with your pot rack to see what size drill bit you need. There is no standard size drill bit for hanging pot racks. In depends on your specific rack. Once you’ve drilled the holes, you can screw the hooks that came with the pot rack into the ceiling. You may be able to get by using a screw driver, but if the hooks don’t go in easily, use pliers to give yourself a better grip.

Pot racks can sometimes be very heavy. You may have to get someone to assist you in lifting the pot rack.

Check how much weight toggle bolts can support before making a purchase. It should say on the package how much weight a specific type of toggle bolt can hold. Make sure the bolts are strong enough to support your pot rack. It’s a good idea to use anchors that will hold a lot more weight than you thing you’ll need. [3] X Expert Source Jason PhillipHandyman Expert Interview. 2 July 2020. For this to be accurate, you will need to also determine the type of ceiling you have. Some ceilings are 1/2 inch thick dry wall, others 5/8 inch, the latter will hold much more weight than the former. Other ceilings may not be suitable for any installation, such as acoustic tile.

Place your template against the spot on the ceiling where you intend to hang the rack. Use a pencil to draw a small dot where each chain will fall.