Drilling into brick can be a daunting task for any DIYer. Masonry is generally dense, hard material that requires the right tools and techniques to penetrate effectively. With some planning and preparation, you can successfully drill through brick for a variety of projects.
Gather the Proper Equipment
Drilling into brick requires using masonry drill bits and a powerful drill. Here is the essential equipment you’ll need:
Masonry Drill Bits
Masonry bits are made from carbide and designed for drilling through dense materials like brick, concrete, and stone. They come in a variety of diameters. Generally, a 3/16″ to 3/8″ bit is sufficient for most jobs. Match the size to the anchors or screws you’ll be inserting into the holes.
Hammer Drill
A hammer drill provides a hammering motion while drilling to break through tough masonry. Regular drill drivers aren’t powerful enough. You’ll need a corded hammer drill or a rotary hammer drill for drilling brick. These also have a special setting for masonry drilling.
Safety Equipment
Drilling brick produces a fine brick dust so be sure to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes. A dust mask is also recommended to avoid breathing in particles. Work gloves will help protect your hands while drilling.
Additional Supplies
Having a small vacuum on hand will help keep the work area tidy as you generate brick dust. A spray bottle filled with water can help keep the drill bit cool if friction causes overheating. Have a piece of scrap wood on hand to back the brick surface you are drilling and prevent cracks.
Choose the Right Location
Take care when selecting a location to drill. Consider what’s behind the exterior surface so you don’t damage plumbing or electric lines. Make sure the spot you choose has enough depth for the screw or anchor. Sound out areas to detect potential hollow spots. Tap gently with a hammer. Hollow areas will echo while solid sections give a dull thud.
When possible, pick a spot in the brick mortar joint rather than through the brick itself. Drilling into the softer mortar requires less effort. Just be sure there is enough depth for the hardware. For heavier applications, brick will provide a more secure hold.
If drilling near the edges, measure carefully to avoid cracking the surrounding brick. Leave at least 6 inches between holes and brick edges. Space multiple holes at least 2 inches apart. Follow any specific spacing requirements for the brackets or hardware being installed.
Prepare the Surface
Proper preparation of the brick surface will make drilling easier. Follow these tips:
- Clean away any dirt, debris or loose particles with a brush. This helps prevent drill bit slippage.
- Use a center punch tool to make an indentation where each hole will be drilled. This gives the bit an aligned starting point.
- Consider a pilot hole for the initial pass through the surface. This lets the carbide bit cut more efficiently.
- Lubricating the surface with light oil or soapy water can help reduce friction. Reapply frequently between passes.
- Tape cardboard around the area to protect surrounding brick from damage.
Drilling Technique
Drilling brick requires patience, firm pressure and the proper technique. Follow these best practices:
- Set the hammer drill to rotate-only mode for initial hole penetration. This allows precise control.
- Let the carbide bit work on contact, using only light pressure. Avoid forcing the bit.
- Once there is slight penetration, engage the hammer setting. Apply steady pressure and let the drill do the work.
- Drill partway into the brick, then back the bit out to clear dust that can clog the hole. Reapply water or oil.
- Repeat with shallow passes of 1/2″ depth. This allows the bit to stay cooler and sharper.
- Reduce pressure as the bit nears full penetration to avoid cracking the exit side. Stop drilling immediately at any signs of cracking.
- Go slow, especially with thicker bricks. Speeding through the process will wear the bit prematurely.
Securing in Brick
With nice clean holes drilled through the brick, the final step is inserting anchors or hardware.
- For anchor screws, first vacuum dust and debris from the hole. Check fit with the anchor.
- Hammer the anchor flush until properly seated. Take care not to crack the brick surface.
- Tighten screws to the recommended torque specification. Don’t overtighten.
- For lag bolts and shields, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for insertion. Expanders require tightening to provide a secure hold.
Tips for Successful Drilling
Drilling smooth passages through brick takes patience and the right approach. Keep these tips in mind:
- Check the condition of drill bits before starting. Inspect for wear and sharpness. Replace dull bits for optimal efficiency.
- Start each hole with light pressure before engaging hammer mode to avoid bit wandering.
- Use only the size masonry bit required for the anchors or hardware. Step bits are quicker but holes may not be centered properly.
- Pull the bit out regularly and spray with water to cool the cutting edges. Friction causes overheating.
- Minimize lateral pressure which can cause the drill bit to walk and make uneven holes.
- Drill test holes in scrap materials first to get a feel for the required speed and pressure.
- Take precautions when drilling overhead. Use a ladder for stability and goggles/mask to avoid falling dust.
How to Drill Into Brick: Frequently Asked Questions
Drilling into the hard surface of brick often raises questions for DIYers. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Can I use a regular drill for brick?
No, a hammer drill designed for masonry is required. Standard drill drivers do not provide enough power to penetrate brick. The hammering action efficiently breaks the hard material.
What size masonry bit for brick?
Smaller 3/16″ and 1/4″ diameter bits are commonly used for drilling anchor holes in brick. Match the size to the hardware diameter for a snug fit. For larger holes, step up gradually for best results.
How fast should I drill brick?
Do not rush the drilling process. Let the carbide masonry bit work while applying steady pressure. Start at 200-500 rpm for optimal control and speed. Bits should penetrate 1/2 inch deep per pass.
Can hammer drills go in reverse?
Yes, they will have a reverse mode. This allows backing the bit out to clear dust while drilling. Take care when triggering reverse to keep the drill stable.
Why does my drill bit keep slipping on brick?
Lack of lubrication is the most common cause of slipping on brick. The friction generated needs cooling and lubrication. Apply water or light oil regularly as you drill. Don’t force the bit.
Do I need special plugs for brick?
Yes, plastic or nylon sleeve anchors specifically designed for masonry should be used. Avoid soft drywall or hollow wall plugs which lack the grip strength for brick’s density.
Conclusion
Drilling smooth holes in brick simply requires using the proper masonry bits, hammer drill, and technique. Have patience during the process and let the carbide bit penetrate the dense material without forcing. Locate holes carefully, prepare the surface, and clear debris frequently for best results. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for any anchors or fasteners inserted in the holes. With the right methods, you can drill brick and complete your project successfully.