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Can I Drill Into Brick? Yes! Here’s Your Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Yes, you can absolutely drill into brick. With the right tools—a hammer drill and a masonry bit—it’s a straightforward DIY project. The key is to drill directly into the brick (not the mortar) for a strong, secure hold. This guide will show you how to do it safely and easily.
Have you ever wanted to hang a heavy shelf, a TV mount, or some beautiful outdoor lights on a brick wall? You might have stopped and wondered, “Can I actually drill into this brick without it crumbling?”
It’s a very common question. Brick seems so tough and permanent. The idea of drilling into it can feel a little scary. You worry about cracking the brick or making a mess you can’t fix.
But here’s the good news: you are in the right place. Drilling into brick is a skill that any DIYer can learn. With a little preparation and the correct technique, you can confidently mount just about anything. Let’s walk through each step together, so you can get it right on the first try.
Contents
Brick vs. Mortar: Where Should You Drill?
Before you even pick up a drill, you need to make a crucial decision: should you drill into the brick itself or the mortar joint between the bricks?
For strength and stability, always try to drill directly into the face of the brick.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Drilling into Brick: This provides the strongest and most reliable hold. Bricks are dense and designed to bear weight. When you place a wall anchor into a solid brick, you can be confident it will hold heavy items like televisions, large mirrors, or sturdy shelving. It’s slightly harder to drill, but the result is far superior.
- Drilling into Mortar: Mortar is the cement-like material that holds the bricks together. It is much softer and easier to drill into. However, it’s also weaker and can degrade or crumble over time, especially in older homes. Mortar is only suitable for very lightweight items, like a small picture frame or a string of fairy lights. For anything with significant weight, avoid the mortar.
The takeaway is clear: for a secure, long-lasting result, aim for the center of a brick. Avoid drilling too close to the edges, as this can increase the risk of cracking.
Essential Tools and Materials for the Job
Having the right tools is 90% of the battle. Trying to use the wrong equipment will only lead to frustration and poor results. Here’s exactly what you’ll need to gather before you start.
Your Checklist:
- Hammer Drill: This is the most important tool. A hammer drill doesn’t just spin; it also punches forward in a rapid “hammering” motion. This action pulverizes the hard brick, allowing the bit to move forward. Many modern cordless drills have a hammer setting, which is perfect for this job.
- Masonry Drill Bits: You cannot use regular wood or metal bits. Masonry bits have a tough, arrow-shaped carbide tip designed specifically to chew through concrete, stone, and brick. Make sure you have the right size for your wall anchor.
- Wall Plugs (Anchors): These are plastic or metal inserts that you place into the drilled hole. When you drive a screw into the plug, it expands and grips the inside of the brick, creating a very secure anchor point.
- Screws: Get screws that are the correct size and length for your wall plugs and the item you’re hanging.
- Tape Measure & Pencil: For accurate marking. You only want to drill once!
- Level: Essential for ensuring shelves, brackets, or TV mounts are perfectly straight.
- Safety Goggles: Non-negotiable. Drilling into brick creates fine, sharp dust and debris that can cause serious eye injury.
- Dust Mask: Protect your lungs from inhaling fine silica dust, which is harmful.
- Shop-Vac or Dustpan & Brush: For cleaning up the dust during and after the job. A vacuum with a hose is great for sucking dust directly from the hole.
How to Drill Into Brick: A 7-Step Guide
Ready to go? Follow these steps carefully for a perfect result every time.
Step 1: Gear Up for Safety
Before you do anything else, put on your safety goggles and dust mask. Brick dust is abrasive and harmful to your eyes and lungs. This step is quick, easy, and the most important one on the list. There are no shortcuts when it comes to your safety.
Step 2: Measure and Mark Your Spot
Use your tape measure to determine exactly where you need to drill. If you’re hanging something that requires multiple holes, like a shelf bracket, use your level to ensure your marks are perfectly aligned. Mark each spot clearly with a pencil or a marker. Double-check your measurements. As the old saying goes, “measure twice, cut (or drill) once.”
Step 3: Set Up Your Drill
First, select the correct size masonry bit. The packaging for your wall plugs will tell you what size drill bit to use. It’s crucial to match them perfectly for a snug fit. Insert the bit securely into your drill’s chuck.
Next, set your drill to the “hammer” function. This is usually indicated by a small hammer icon on a dial or switch on the drill body.
Finally, set your drilling depth. You want the hole to be slightly deeper than the length of your wall plug. Many hammer drills come with a depth stop—a small rod you can adjust. If yours doesn’t have one, simply measure the length of the wall plug against the drill bit and wrap a piece of masking tape around the bit to mark your target depth.
Step 4: Drill a Pilot Hole (Optional but Recommended)
To prevent the drill bit from “walking” or slipping across the brick surface when you start, it’s a good idea to create a small pilot hole. You can do this by using a smaller masonry bit first or by gently tapping a nail set or a hardened screw with a hammer on your mark to create a small indent.
Then, place the tip of your main drill bit into this indent. Start drilling slowly without the hammer function engaged, just to get the hole started. Once the bit is about a quarter-inch deep, you’re ready for the main event.
Step 5: Drill the Main Hole
Switch the hammer function back on. Hold the drill firmly with both hands and make sure it’s perfectly perpendicular (at a 90-degree angle) to the wall. Apply firm, steady pressure and pull the trigger. Let the drill do the work—don’t force it.
Drill until you reach the tape marker on your bit. As you drill, it’s helpful to pull the bit out of the hole every 10-15 seconds. This helps clear out dust and debris, reduces heat, and makes the drilling process more efficient.
Step 6: Clean Out the Hole
This is a critical step that many beginners skip. For your wall anchor to grip properly, the hole must be completely free of dust and debris. Use the hose of a shop-vac to suck all the dust out. If you don’t have a vacuum, you can use a small bottle brush or even a can of compressed air (wear your goggles!) to clean it out thoroughly.
Step 7: Insert the Anchor and Screw
Take your plastic wall plug and push it into the clean hole. It should be a snug fit. If it’s loose, your hole is too big. If it won’t go in, the hole might be too small or not clean enough. Gently tap it with a hammer until the end of the plug is flush with the surface of the brick.
Now, place your item (or its bracket) over the hole, line it up, and drive your screw into the wall plug. As the screw goes in, it will expand the plug, locking it tightly against the inside of the brick. Tighten until it’s secure, but be careful not to overtighten and strip the screw or crack the bracket.
That’s it! You’ve successfully drilled into brick.
Pro-Tips for a Flawless Finish
- Let the Tool Cool: If you’re drilling multiple holes, your drill bit and motor can get very hot. Give them a break to cool down to prevent overheating and damage.
- What if You Hit Something? Sometimes you might hit something extremely hard inside the brick, like a piece of aggregate or rebar (in reinforced brick walls). If the drill stops making progress, don’t force it. Stop, and if possible, choose a new spot to drill a few inches away.
- Use a Wet Sponge: For an extra dust-control measure, have a friend hold a damp sponge just below where you’re drilling. It will catch a surprising amount of the dust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a regular drill on brick?
You can try, but it will be very difficult and you risk burning out your drill’s motor. A regular drill only spins. A hammer drill spins and punches. This hammering action is what breaks up the brick. While it might be possible on very soft, old brick, a hammer drill is the right tool and will make the job infinitely easier and faster. Many modern cordless drills come with this feature.
What size drill bit do I need for my wall plug?
The wall plug (anchor) packaging will always specify the required drill bit size. For example, a 1/4″ anchor will require a 1/4″ masonry drill bit. Using the exact size is crucial for a secure fit.
How deep should I drill into brick?
Your hole should be slightly deeper than the length of the wall plug you are using. This ensures the plug can be fully inserted and leaves a little extra space for any remaining dust at the bottom of the hole. Use the tape trick mentioned in Step 3 to mark your depth.
Is it better to drill into the brick or the mortar?
For almost any application involving weight, it is always better to drill into the solid brick. Brick is much stronger and more durable than mortar. Mortar can crumble and is not designed for load-bearing anchors. Only drill into mortar for extremely lightweight items.
What if my brick is old or starting to crumble?
If you’re working with very old, soft, or spalling (flaking) brick, you need to be extra gentle. Use a brand new, sharp masonry bit. Start on a low speed and don’t apply too much pressure. Consider using a chemical anchor (epoxy) instead of a traditional plug for a more secure hold in fragile material.
How do I fill a hole in brick if I make a mistake?
Mistakes happen! You can easily fill an unwanted hole. Clean the hole thoroughly. Then, use a pre-mixed mortar repair caulk or a brick-colored epoxy putty. Press the material firmly into the hole and smooth the surface. You can even stipple the surface while it’s wet to better match the brick’s texture.
Conclusion: You’ve Got This!
Drilling into brick might seem like a job reserved for professionals, but as you’ve seen, it’s a completely manageable DIY task. The secret isn’t brute force; it’s using the right tools and the right technique.
By investing in a hammer drill and a set of masonry bits, and by following these steps carefully—especially when it comes to safety and cleaning—you can unlock a whole new range of possibilities for your home. So go ahead, plan that gallery wall, hang that heavy mirror, or mount those outdoor speakers. Your brick walls are ready when you are.
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Hi, I’m Jake Carter. I’m passionate about everything on wheels and the tools that keep them running. From keeping cars spotless to testing the latest power tools, I love sharing practical tips that help drivers, DIYers, and enthusiasts get more out of their machines. On AMZTechHub, I cover everything from car washing and maintenance to power tool guides and workshop advice—making it simple for anyone to keep their ride and their gear in top shape.