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How to drill into brick

Black hook is securely mounted to a brick wall

Overview

Knowing how to drill into brick is a handy skill for many D.I.Y. projects, whether you’re hanging shelves, securing fixtures, or mounting decorations. This guide will show you how to choose the right tools and follow the proper techniques to drill into bricks for a secure and lasting result.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Choose the right drill

Brick is a tough material to work with, so having the right drill is critical. A rotary hammer drill is the best option because it combines a hammering motion with rotary power, making it ideal for drilling through hard surfaces like brick and concrete. If you don’t have a rotary hammer drill, a hammer drill will work too but it doesn’t have the same level of power, so you may need a bit more time and patience to drill through tougher bricks.

Before starting, check your drill’s settings. Ensure it’s set to the hammer or masonry drilling mode and that you’re using the correct masonry drill bit for the job.

Ryobi cordless rotary hammer drill

2 Select the right screw, wall plug, and drill bit

Using the correct combination of screws, wall plugs, and drill bits is vital for a secure fit. If you’re working with 8-10 gauge screws, pair them with a 6mm wall plug. For larger 12-14 gauge screws, use an 8mm wall plug. The diameter of the drill bit should always match the diameter of the wall plug. For example, a 6mm wall plug requires a 6mm masonry drill bit, and an 8mm wall plug requires an 8mm bit.

When it comes to wall plug length, the exact size is less critical than its diameter. As long as the screw is slightly longer than the wall plug, it will provide a firm hold. For projects that involve heavier fixtures or deeper anchoring, consider using longer screws and wall plugs to increase stability and strength.

A person holding wall plugs and screws

3Measure and mark the drilling spot

Careful preparation ensures you drill in the right place. Start by identifying the exact location where you want to place your screw. Use a tape measure to ensure accuracy, and mark the spot with a pencil or marker. If you’re drilling multiple holes (for example, for a bracket or shelf), measure and mark each one to ensure they’re evenly spaced. A spirit level can help make sure everything lines up correctly.
Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: To avoid drilling too deep, wrap a piece of masking tape around the drill bit at the required depth. This visual guide will help you stop drilling at the perfect point.
A person is marking the drilling spot on a brick wall with a tape measure

4Start drilling

Once everything is marked and ready, it’s time to start drilling. Position the tip of the drill bit on your marked spot. Hold the drill firmly with both hands to maintain stability, and start drilling at a low speed. This helps the drill bit get a good grip on the brick and prevents it from slipping. As soon as the hole begins to take shape, increase the drill’s speed slightly and continue drilling. Apply steady, moderate pressure to the drill—don’t force it. Let the tool’s hammer action do the work. Drilling too aggressively can damage the brick or cause the drill bit to overheat.

Keep an eye on the masking tape on the drill bit to ensure you don’t drill deeper than necessary. Once you reach the desired depth, pull the drill in and out of the hole a couple of times. This clears out any brick dust and debris, ensuring the wall plug will fit snugly.

Start drilling into brick wall using a Ryobi rotary hammer

5 Insert the wall plug

After drilling the hole, it’s time to insert the wall plug. Check that the wall plug matches the hole diameter and slide it into place. If it doesn’t fit easily, use a hammer to gently tap it into the hole until it sits flush with the surface of the brick. In some cases, the wall plug may stick out slightly. If this happens, trim the excess with a utility knife or pliers so the plug doesn’t interfere with the fixture you’re attaching. A snug-fitting plug is essential for ensuring the screw is secure.
Insert the wall plug in the brick

6Secure the screw

With the wall plug in place, you’re ready to drive in the screw. Line up your fixture or bracket (if you’re attaching one) with the hole, then carefully drive the screw into the wall plug. Use steady pressure and ensure the screw goes in straight. Tighten the screw until it’s firmly in place, but avoid over-tightening. Applying too much force can strip the wall plug or crack the brick, reducing the strength of the connection. If you notice resistance before the screw is fully seated, stop and check for any obstructions or debris in the hole.
Securing the screws in the wall plug

7Looking for more D.I.Y. projects around the home?

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.