Drilling into brick may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s a manageable task for many homeowners. You may need to drill into brick if you’re hanging a picture, mounting a TV, or installing exterior fixtures. This guide will walk you through the process, from knowing where to drill to finishing your project and maintaining your tools.
Brick vs. Mortar: Where To Drill
When deciding where to drill, you’ll need to choose between the brick itself and the mortar joints. As a general rule, always drill into the brick unless you’re hanging something very light (under two pounds). Mortar is much softer than brick and doesn’t have the strength to hold significant weight. Mortar deteriorates faster than brick, which could compromise the stability of your installation over time.
Tools for Drilling Into Brick
Here’s what you’ll need to drill into brick safely and easily.
Power Drills
A power drill is the most important tool for this job. While a standard drill can work, a hammer drill is ideal for brick. Hammer drills combine rotary motion with a hammering action, making them more effective for masonry work. Here are some key features to look for in a drill:
- Adjustable clutch
- Cordless or corded options
- Hammer function
- Variable speed settings
Masonry Drill Bits
Masonry drill bits are designed to penetrate hard materials like brick. They have a carbide or tungsten carbide tip that can withstand the heat and friction generated when drilling into brick. When selecting a masonry bit, opt for high-quality bits for better performance and longevity. Consider a set with various sizes for different projects.
Safety Equipment
Safety should always be a priority when drilling into brick. Here’s the safety equipment to have on hand before you start:
- Dust mask to prevent inhalation of brick dust
- Earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing
- Safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris
- Work gloves for hand protection
Preparing To Drill Into Brick
Proper preparation helps you achieve accurate and safe results when drilling into brick. Before you start drilling, set up your work area by following these steps:
- Clear the area of any obstacles or tripping hazards.
- Set up a stable platform or ladder if drilling at height.
- Have a small shop vac or dustpan and broom nearby for cleanup.
- Ensure proper lighting for visibility.
- If you’re drilling multiple holes, use a bubble level to ensure they’re aligned correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Drilling Into Brick
Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to start drilling. Follow these steps for the best results.
Step 1: Measure and Mark Where You Want To Drill
The first step to drilling into brick is to mark the location. You’ll probably want to use a tape measure to find the center of the wall, the proper height, or the correct spacing between objects.
Use a permanent marker to make your marks on the brick, being sure that the marks aren’t near the brick’s edges. Drilling near the edges can cause the brick to split and crumble. Make sure to stay more than an inch from any edge.
If you have to drill two or more holes, you may need to use a bubble level to ensure they’re level or plumb.
Step 2: Find Your Desired Depth
Install the appropriate drill bit for your needs and tighten it down. For most tasks, you likely won’t have to drill the entire length of the bit. If you’re using a concrete anchor kit or masonry screws, refer to the packaging to determine the drilling depth.
Some hammer drills come with stops that prevent the user from drilling past a certain depth. If your drill has a stop, set it so that the measurement between the tip of the bit and the end of the stop matches your desired depth. If you don’t have a stop, you can measure and mark the drill bit with the permanent marker at your desired depth
Alternatively, wrap some painter’s tape around the bit at that point to provide a guide.
Step 3: Start Drilling
After putting on your safety glasses, mask, and earplugs (hammer drills are loud), set your drill to its highest speed and the hammer setting (if so equipped).
After placing the tip of the drill bit on the mark, tap the back of the drill with the palm of your hand once or twice. This tap allows the tip of the bit to dig into the brick just enough to stay centered on the mark while drilling.
Holding the drill perpendicular to the wall, slowly squeeze the trigger and put pressure on the drill so it can dig in. As the drill bit begins to penetrate, you can increase the speed. Every 10 seconds or so, remove the spinning drill slightly to remove the brick dust clogging the hole.
Continue the cycle of drilling and removing the bit until you’ve hit your adjustable stop or the permanent marker/painter’s tape on the drill bit.
Step 4: Vacuum the Hole and Floor
Most modular bricks aren’t hollow, so the brick dust often sits in the hole. That dust can obstruct an anchor or screw, so you need to remove it before attaching anything to the brick. Plus, brick dust can be messy and potentially harmful if inhaled.
To manage it, have someone hold a vacuum nozzle near the drilling site to catch dust as you work. If you’re working alone, stop periodically to vacuum the area. Use the hose and crevice nozzle attachment on a running shop vac to remove the dust.
Since you already have the vacuum out, this is a good time to sweep and clean the floor. Wait until you’re done before mopping so the floor isn’t wet while you’re working.
Step 5: Hang or Attach Your Item
Once you’re done, vacuum and mop any brick dust up off finished floors. Brick dust is abrasive and can scratch hardwood or tile.
If you’re hanging something on the wall, use the hardware that came with the item, or an anchor or masonry screw kit. You can either drive this hardware using a drill with a driver bit attached, a screwdriver (this can be tough on the forearms), or a socket and ratchet in the case of hex head masonry screws.
Troubleshooting Common Issues Drilling Into Brick
Even with proper preparation, you may encounter some challenges when drilling into brick.
Preventing Brick Cracking
To avoid cracking the brick, follow these steps:
- Always drill at least an inch away from the edges of the brick.
- Apply steady, even pressure rather than forcing the drill.
- Start with a smaller pilot hole before moving to larger bit sizes.
- Use sharp, high-quality drill bits.
What To Do If You Hit Metal or Rebar
If you encounter unexpected resistance or a metallic sound, stop drilling immediately and try drilling in a slightly different location. If you consistently hit metal, consult a professional. There may be structural elements you need to avoid.
Considerations for Specific Brick Drilling Projects
Different projects require different approaches when drilling into brick.
Hanging Light Objects
For items weighing less than 10 pounds, follow the steps below:
- Use plastic anchors designed for brick and masonry.
- Drill a hole slightly smaller than the anchor.
- Tap the anchor into place with a hammer.
- Insert the screw into the anchor.
Mounting Heavy Items
For heavier items like TVs and shelves, follow this technique:
- Use expansion bolts or sleeve anchors for added strength.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for hole size and depth.
- Consider using a mounting plate to distribute weight across multiple anchor points.
Running Wires or Pipes Through Brick
When drilling all the way through brick to run wires or pipes through, follow the steps below:
- Whenever possible, start on the side that will be visible when the project is completed, as there’s a chance you’ll break the backside of the brick as you drill through it.
- Starting with a smaller masonry bit and following the steps outlined in the step-by-step guide above, drill a pilot hole through the brick.
- Repeat this process several times, each time using the next largest drill bit until the hole is the appropriate size. Bigger holes, such as those required for large-diameter drainpipes, will require a core drill or a large rotary hammer drill, tools best handled by professionals.
Preserving Structural Integrity
Ensure the brick remains structurally sound, especially during extensive drilling tasks. Avoid drilling in rapid succession to prevent heat buildup. Use a drilling guide or jig to maintain consistent alignment. If in doubt, consult structural blueprints to avoid drilling into critical areas, such as load-bearing walls or supports.
Maintaining Your Drilling Tools
Proper tool maintenance will ensure your equipment lasts longer and performs better for future projects. We recommend cleaning bits thoroughly with a wire brush to remove brick dust. Also, apply a light coating of machine oil to prevent rust. Store bits in a dry place, preferably in a case to protect the tips.