Anchoring a HEAVY room divider/screen

hummin40

I just purchased an extremely heavy (close to 150 lbs) and tall (almost 7 ft) wood and metal room divider/screen. For safety reasons I want to make sure this doesn't get knocked over. Would you recommend anchoring one side to a wall? Please give me any ideas on how to keep this beautiful screen safe. It is sitting on carpet and when extended is very scary to walk around.
Thanks for your help.

Termite

Can you post a picture of it so we know what we're dealing with?

hummin40

I've looked online for the identical screen but unable to find it. I don't have a digital camera either... I'm sorry! All I can do is describe it the best I can. I'll try to get someone to snap a photo of it and re-post the thread next week. Thanks for your help so far.

Termite

I've deleted your other thread...No need for duplicate threads on the same topic.

Here's the link you posted to your screen:
http://www.furniturexo.com/Metallic-...html?cPath=128

Termite

It appears that the edges are wood. Why not use a couple metal brackets screwed to the divider and to the wall to anchor one end? You can get all sorts of metal brackets that are decorative or just plain metal.

Termite

Or, even better, use decorative hinges in the same fashion. Lee Valley has a million different ones, or local home centers will have a few too.

hummin40

Thanks for your suggestions. Lee Valley does have a good selection. (I just requested all 3 of their catalogs!)

Do you think I should frame in the side that will be stationery for extra support?

Termite

It would be ideal for you to hit a stud with the bracket's or hinges' screws. Simply using drywall anchors would work but a good impact (or even repeated use of the divider) could jar them loose.

hummin40

Thanks! Will do. (Now, know any good tips at getting husbands off the couch to help) Have a great day.

Termite

The idea of my wife doing any work on the house and the quality of the work she tends to do is plenty of motivation for me to do it instead.

hummin40

I'll try that approach but doubtful he'll agree!

If the wall doesn't look like Woody Woodpecker got a hold of it after I'm finished I'll post a picture! Wish me luck!

Mr Chips

I would avoid hinges that are too decrotive, but would simply try to match (as close as possible) the hinges that are actually used on the divider. When you install them, try to keep them even with all the other hinges.

I would also do EVERYTHING possible to make sure you anchor this thing to a stud. It's a 114 lbs with a high center of gravity and made to be pulled on: mounting into a stud is a must to me.

hkwatcher

Hi
This is my first post and you all seem so knowledgeable.
I also have a heavy divider I want to anchor, but mine will be anchored into a concrete wall. Do you think I need to build a frame for first or can we just use an impact drill with the plactic anchors and screws and go into the concrete with the hinges? (I plan to use 2)
My divider has only 2 panels (but they are teak and very heavy) and I want to use it as a sort of divider/false wall to block the view of the side of the refrigerator.
At first I was thinking we could use a sort of piano hinge, but my husband says it would not be strong enough. Any opinions?
I can post pictures if necessary.
Thanks

Mr Chips

unless you are trying for a certain look, there is no reason you can't simply anchor right to the concrete wall.

as for plastic anchors, there are some that are better than others, but over all they do a pretty good job for a light duty application in concrete.

Piano hinge might be plenty strong, especially since it's only two panels, and doesn't sound like it will be opened and closed on a regular basis. there are other options, but hard to say for sure based on the limited info
Pictures are ALWAYS helpful!