Hanging shelves, trellises, or even just a simple house number on a brick wall can seem like a daunting task. Unlike drywall, you can’t just drive a screw into brick and expect it to hold. The process requires the right tools and a specific technique to ensure a strong, secure fastening that won’t damage the masonry.
Many homeowners shy away from this task, fearing they’ll crack the brick or that the screw will eventually pull out.
Learning how to put screws into brick is a valuable DIY skill that unlocks a new range of possibilities for your indoor and outdoor spaces. It’s a much more straightforward process than you might think. This guide will demystify the steps, from selecting the correct drill bit and anchors to drilling the perfect hole. With this knowledge, you can confidently and safely mount objects on any brick surface.
Why Knowing How to Attach Items to Brick is a Useful Skill
Mastering a secure fastening method for brick walls is an incredibly useful skill for any homeowner. It allows you to transform bland brick surfaces, both inside and out, into functional and decorative spaces. You can hang heavy items like shelves, mirrors, or cabinets with confidence, knowing they are safely anchored. This knowledge saves you the cost and hassle of hiring a professional for simple installation jobs. It gives you the freedom to customize your living spaces, from hanging garden art on an exterior wall to installing a TV mount on an exposed brick fireplace.
8 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put Screws into Brick
Step 1: Choose the Right Screws and Wall Anchors
The success of your project starts with selecting the proper hardware. For brick, you cannot simply use a wood screw; you need a masonry screw and a corresponding wall anchor. The anchor, often a plastic sleeve called a plug, expands inside the brick to create a tight grip for the screw. Choose an anchor and screw combination that is rated to hold the weight of the object you plan to hang. The packaging will typically state the weight capacity. For heavier items, consider using a lead shield anchor or a sleeve anchor for a more robust and secure fastening.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools and Safety Gear
Before you start, gather all the necessary tools. You will need a power drill, specifically a hammer drill if possible, as it makes drilling into masonry much easier. You’ll also need a set of masonry drill bits, a tape measure, a pencil for marking, a hammer, and a screwdriver or drill bit for driving the screw. Safety is paramount when working with power tools and creating dust. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris and a dust mask to avoid inhaling the fine brick dust that will be generated during drilling.
Step 3: Mark Your Drilling Location
Carefully decide where you want to place your screw. Use a tape measure and a level to ensure your placement is accurate, especially if you are hanging something that needs to be perfectly straight, like a shelf. Mark the exact spot with a pencil. It is generally recommended to drill into the brick itself rather than the mortar joints. The brick provides a more solid and reliable material for the anchor to grip into. Mortar can be softer and may crumble over time, potentially loosening the anchor and compromising the hold.
Step 4: Select the Correct Masonry Drill Bit Size
Matching the drill bit to the wall anchor is a critical step. The masonry drill bit should be the same diameter as the shaft of the anchor, not the screw. This information is usually printed on the anchor’s packaging or sometimes on the anchor itself. Using a bit that is too small will prevent you from inserting the anchor, while a bit that is too large will result in a loose fit and a weak hold. A snug fit is essential for the anchor to expand properly and create a secure fastening.
Step 5: Drill the Pilot Hole into the Brick
Now you are ready to drill. If you are using a hammer drill, switch it to the hammer setting. Insert your chosen masonry drill bit into the power drill and tighten the chuck. Place the tip of the drill bit on your pencil mark. Start drilling slowly to create a small indentation, which will prevent the bit from “walking” or slipping across the brick surface. Once the hole is started, increase the drill speed and apply firm, steady pressure. Drill the hole to a depth that is slightly deeper than the length of your anchor.
Step 6: Clean the Debris from the Drilled Hole
After drilling, the hole will be filled with brick dust and debris. It is essential to clean this out completely, as the dust can prevent the wall anchor from seating properly and expanding fully. Use a can of compressed air to blow out the debris, or use a small, stiff-bristled brush, like a bottle brush, to clean it out. A vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle attachment also works very well. A clean hole ensures maximum contact between the anchor and the brick, which is vital for a strong hold. This is a simple but crucial step for learning how to put screws into brick.
Step 7: Insert the Wall Anchor into the Hole
With the hole clean, you can now insert the plastic wall anchor. Push the anchor into the hole with your fingers. It should be a snug fit. If it’s too tight, you can gently tap it with a hammer until the head of the anchor is flush with the surface of the brick. Do not force it too hard, as this could damage the anchor. If the anchor goes in too easily, your hole is too big, and you should start over in a new spot with the correct drill bit size.
Step 8: Drive the Screw into the Anchor
The final step is to drive the screw into the anchor. Place your object over the hole, align it, and then insert the screw through the object and into the anchor. Using a screwdriver or a drill on a low-speed setting, drive the screw into the anchor. As the screw goes in, it will expand the anchor, forcing it to grip the inside of the brick tightly. Continue turning until the screw is snug and your item is held firmly against the wall. Do not overtighten, as this can strip the anchor or crack the brick. Learning how to put screws into brick is all about this final, secure result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Drill into the Brick or the Mortar?
It is almost always better to drill into the solid brick. Brick is a much denser and stronger material than mortar, providing a more reliable and secure anchor point. Mortar can be soft, brittle, and prone to crumbling, which can cause your anchor to loosen over time, especially when supporting a heavy load. Drilling into the brick ensures the longevity and safety of whatever you are hanging.
What Is a Hammer Drill and Do I Really Need One?
A hammer drill is a power drill that has a specialized “hammer” function. In addition to spinning the drill bit, it also provides a rapid, short hammering action that pulverizes the masonry as it drills. While you can drill into softer brick with a regular drill and a masonry bit, a hammer drill makes the job significantly faster and easier, especially with harder brick or concrete. For more than one or two holes, it is highly recommended.
What Are Masonry Screws and When Should I Use Them?
Masonry screws (like Tapcon screws) are specialized, self-tapping screws designed to be driven directly into a pilot hole in brick or concrete without the need for a separate plastic anchor. They are typically blue and have special threads that cut into the masonry. They are an excellent choice for medium to heavy-duty applications and offer a very strong hold. You still need to drill a precise pilot hole as recommended by the screw manufacturer.
How Much Weight Can a Screw in Brick Hold?
The weight capacity depends entirely on the type and size of the anchor and screw used, the quality of the brick, and the installation quality.
- A standard plastic anchor might hold 10-20 pounds.
- Heavy-duty sleeve anchors or masonry screws can hold 100 pounds or more.
Always check the manufacturer’s specifications on the anchor packaging. When in doubt, use more anchors or a stronger type of anchor than you think you need.
What Do I Do If the Brick Cracks While I’m Drilling?
If a brick cracks, stop drilling immediately. Do not attempt to use that hole, as the crack has compromised the structural integrity of that spot. You will need to choose a new location for your hole, preferably a few inches away on a different, solid brick. Minor surface chipping around the hole is normal, but a full crack means the brick cannot safely support a load.
Conclusion
Knowing how to put screws into brick is a fundamental DIY skill that gives you the confidence to securely mount items on masonry walls, transforming them into functional and beautiful parts of your home. While it may seem more complex than working with drywall, the process is perfectly manageable for a beginner when you follow the right steps. The key is using the correct tools and hardware for the job.
With this guide, you are now prepared to tackle your next project. Whether you’re hanging shelves, installing a handrail, or mounting a hose reel, you have the knowledge to create a safe and secure fastening in brick. Take your time, prioritize safety, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.