How To Hang Something From Brick

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Transforming your humble abode into a haven of aesthetics and functionality often involves adorning its walls with captivating artworks, cherished photographs, or practical shelves. However, the daunting task of drilling into brick walls may send shivers down the spines of even the most enthusiastic DIY enthusiasts. Fear not, intrepid decorators, for this comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to seamlessly hang your treasured possessions from brick without causing any unsightly damage. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced home renovator, this step-by-step approach will guide you through the process, ensuring your walls remain pristine while your decorations take center stage.

Before embarking on this adventure, it is imperative to assess the weight and size of the item you intend to hang. Lightweight frames or small shelves can be secured using self-adhesive hooks or heavy-duty double-sided tape. However, for heavier objects, a more robust approach is necessary. Enter the mighty toggle bolt, a two-piece fastener designed to anchor into hollow spaces behind the brick. Its unique expanding mechanism ensures a firm and secure hold, giving you peace of mind knowing that your precious possessions are safe and sound.

To initiate the installation process, carefully mark the desired location on the wall using a pencil. The next step involves drilling a pilot hole using a hammer drill and the appropriate masonry bit. The hole should be slightly smaller in diameter than the toggle bolt you intend to use. Once the pilot hole is complete, gently tap the ribbed section of the toggle bolt into the hole until it is flush with the wall. Spread the wings of the toggle bolt within the hollow space behind the brick by pulling on the bolt’s threaded end. With the toggle bolt securely in place, simply screw in the remaining part of the bolt or hook, leaving a small gap between its head and the wall. Now, you can confidently hang your artwork or shelf, knowing that it will remain firmly anchored to the brick wall, completing your decorative vision without compromising the integrity of your home’s structure.

Essential Tools and Materials

Hanging something from brick requires specific tools and materials to ensure a secure and durable installation. Gather the following items before beginning the project:

Anchor and Screw/Bolt

Masonry anchor: Choose an anchor designed for brick, such as a sleeve anchor, wedge anchor, or tapcon screw.
Screw/bolt: Select a screw or bolt that is compatible with the anchor and the weight of the item being hung. Ensure the length is appropriate for the thickness of the brick.

Drilling Equipment

Hammer drill: A powerful drill with a carbide or masonry bit is essential for drilling into brick.
Carbide or masonry bit: These specialized bits are designed to penetrate hard materials like brick.
Drill bit gauge: A gauge helps determine the correct size of the bit to use for the anchor.

Other Essential Items

Level: A level ensures that the hanging item is aligned properly.
Tape measure: A tape measure is used to mark the location and measure distances.
Screwdriver or wrench: A screwdriver or wrench is required to tighten the anchor and screw/bolt.
Safety glasses: Safety glasses protect your eyes from debris. Gloves are recommended to prevent hand injuries.

Tool/Material	Purpose
Masonry anchor	Holds the screw/bolt securely in the brick
Screw/bolt	Attaches the hanging item to the anchor
Hammer drill	Drills into the brick
Carbide or masonry bit	Penetrates the brick
Drill bit gauge	Determines the correct bit size
Level	Ensures alignment
Tape measure	Marks location and measures distances
Screwdriver or wrench	Tightens the anchor and screw/bolt
Safety glasses	Protects eyes from debris
Gloves	Prevents hand injuries

Preparing the Brick Surface

Before hanging anything from a brick surface, it’s crucial to prepare the surface adequately. This involves cleaning and repairing any imperfections to ensure a sturdy and secure hold.

Cleaning the Surface:

Use a stiff brush or power washer to remove dirt, debris, and mortar remnants.
For stubborn stains, apply a solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP) and water (follow manufacturer’s instructions).
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the surface to dry completely.

Repairing Imperfections:

Fixing Loose Bricks

Loose bricks can compromise the integrity of the surface. To repair them, follow these steps:

Carefully remove the loose brick using a cold chisel and hammer.
Clean the cavity and surrounding bricks thoroughly.
Apply mortar to the cavity and insert the brick firmly.
Tap the brick into place and use a level to ensure it’s aligned.

Repointing Mortar Joints

Deteriorated mortar joints weaken the bond between bricks. To repoint them:

Use a cold chisel to remove the old mortar from the joints.
Clean the joints and surrounding bricks.
Apply fresh mortar to the joints and use a pointing tool to shape it.
Allow the mortar to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

By preparing the brick surface properly, you can create a solid and lasting anchor for your hanging project.

Measuring and Marking Placement

Step 1: Determine the Location

Decide where you want to hang the object on the brick wall and mark the desired location with a pencil or chalk.

Step 2: Measure the Object

Measure the height and width of the object to determine its dimensions and the space it will occupy on the wall.

Step 3: Mark the Wall

Use a level to ensure that the wall is straight, then mark the location on the wall where you want to hang the object.
Measure the distance from the top of the object to the bottom of the object and mark this distance on the wall.
Measure the distance from the left side of the object to the right side of the object and mark this distance on the wall.

Step 4: Find the Studs

Brick walls typically have wooden studs behind them, which provide a secure surface for hanging objects.
Use a stud finder to locate the studs and mark their positions on the wall.
Identify the location of the studs on the wall by using a stud finder.
Stud finders are available at most home improvement stores.
Once you have marked the locations of the studs on the wall, you can align the object you are hanging with the studs.
This will help to ensure that the object is securely attached to the wall and will not fall down.


Walls with no Studs: Use wall anchors.

Drilling into Brick

First, ensure you have the proper tools: a hammer drill, masonry drill bit, hammer-drill-compatible safety glasses, and a dust mask.

To drill into brick:
1. Mark the drilling location with a pencil.
2. Put on safety glasses and a dust mask.
3. Set the hammer drill to “hammer drill” mode.
4. Use a masonry drill bit of the appropriate size for the anchor you will be using.
5. Start drilling slowly and gradually increase speed. Hold the drill firmly and apply constant pressure.

Tip	Details
Lubricate the bit	Apply a few drops of cutting oil or lubricant to the bit to reduce friction and extend its life.
Drill at an angle	For stronger anchors, drill at a slight downward angle towards the center of the wall.
Clean the hole	Use a brush or compressed air to remove any dust or debris before inserting an anchor.

Inserting Anchors and Hooks

1. Use a Drill with a Masonry Bit to Create a Hole

Select a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the anchor you plan to use. Mark the desired location on the brick wall and drill a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the anchor’s length.

2. Clean the Hole of Dust and Debris

Use a brush or compressed air to remove any loose particles from the hole. This will ensure a strong hold for the anchor.

3. Insert the Anchor

Place the anchor into the hole and gently tap it in using a hammer or a setting tool. Be careful not to overtighten the anchor, as this can damage the brick.

4. Insert the Screw or Hook

Insert the screw or hook into the anchor and tighten it securely using a screwdriver or a wrench. Ensure that the screw or hook is properly engaged with the anchor’s threads for maximum hold.

5. Use a Level to Ensure Alignment

Hold the attached object up to the wall and use a level to ensure that it is hanging straight. Adjust the screw or hook as necessary to achieve the desired level.

6. Additional Considerations for Hollow Brick Walls

Hanging items on hollow brick walls requires special anchors called “toggle bolts” or “butterfly anchors.” These anchors have wings that expand inside the wall cavity, providing a secure hold.

Here are the steps for inserting anchors and hooks in hollow brick walls:

Step	Description
1	Drill a hole through the brick and into the wall cavity.
2	Insert the toggle bolt into the hole and push it through until the wings open.
3	Pull the bolt back slightly to secure the wings against the back of the wall cavity.
4	Insert the screw or hook into the bolt and tighten it securely.

Materials You’ll Need:

Drill with appropriate drill bit for the size of the anchor
Hammer
Screwdriver
Drywall anchors (for anchors into hollow spaces)
Wood screws (if screwing directly into wood)

Stud finder (optional)

Hanging the Object Securely

1. Determine the Type of Wall

Before hanging anything, determine the type of wall you’re dealing with. Drill a small pilot hole to see if you hit hard material (brick, stone) or if you enter a cavity (drywall, plaster). This will affect the type of anchors you need.

2. Find the Studs (Optional)

If you’re unsure about the location of the studs behind your brick wall, use a stud finder to locate them. This is important for hanging heavy objects, as the studs provide additional support.

3. Choose the Right Anchors

For brick walls, use masonry anchors. They come in different sizes and types, so choose one suitable for the weight of the object you’re hanging.

4. Drill the Pilot Hole

Mark the desired hanging location and drill a pilot hole using the appropriate drill bit for your anchors.

5. Insert the Anchors

Insert the masonry anchors into the pilot holes and hammer them flush with the wall.

6. Tighten the Screws

Insert the wood screws into the anchors and tighten them using a screwdriver. The screws should be tight enough to hold the object securely.

7. Check for Sturdiness

Once everything is secured, test the strength of the hanging by gently shaking or applying pressure to the object. If it feels loose, tighten the screws further or adjust the anchors as needed.

Anchor Type	Recommended Screw Size	Suitable for
Plastic Insert Anchor	#6 or #8 wood screw	Lightweight objects (e.g., pictures, curtains)
Toggle Bolt Anchor	#8 or #10 wood screw	Medium-weight objects (e.g., mirrors, shelves)
Lag Bolt Anchor	#10 or #12 lag screw	Heavy-weight objects (e.g., beams, furniture)

Ensuring Level and Stability

1. Mark the Location

Use a level to mark the location of the screw hole on the brick wall. This will ensure that the object is level when it is hung.

2. Drill a Pilot Hole

Use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screw you will be using to drill a pilot hole in the brick. This will help prevent the brick from cracking.

3. Insert a Plastic Anchor

Insert a plastic anchor into the pilot hole. This will help to distribute the weight of the object and prevent the screw from pulling out of the brick.

4. Screw in the Screw

Screw the screw into the plastic anchor. Do not overtighten the screw, as this can damage the brick.

5. Hang the Object

Hang the object on the screw. Use a washer between the object and the brick to help prevent the object from scratching the brick.

6. Check the Level

Check the level of the object to make sure that it is level. If it is not level, adjust the screw until it is.

7. Tighten the Screw

Tighten the screw until it is snug. Do not overtighten the screw, as this can damage the brick.

8. Additional Tips for Stability

For heavier objects, you may need to use more than one screw to secure it to the brick. You can also use a toggle bolt, which is a type of bolt that expands behind the brick to provide additional support.

Type of Anchor	Description	Recommended Weight Load
Plastic Anchor	A plastic insert that expands in the drilled hole to provide a secure hold.	Up to 50 lbs
Toggle Bolt	A bolt that has a butterfly-shaped head that folds behind the brick to provide additional support.	Up to 200 lbs
Lead Anchor	A metal insert that is melted into the brick to provide the strongest hold.	Over 200 lbs

Troubleshooting Tips

1. The Anchor Doesn’t Fit in the Hole

If the anchor is too large for the hole, you may need to use a drill bit that is slightly larger than the anchor. Be careful not to drill the hole too large, as this will weaken the brick.

2. The Anchor Is Loose

If the anchor is loose, you may need to use a washer or a larger anchor to secure it. You can also try hammering the anchor into the hole more firmly.

3. The Anchor Is Bent

If the anchor is bent, you will need to replace it with a new one. Do not try to straighten the bent anchor, as it may break.

4. The Object Is Too Heavy

If the object you are hanging is too heavy for the anchors you are using, you may need to use more anchors or a different type of anchor.

5. The Brick Is Crumbling

If the brick is crumbling, you will need to repair the brick before you can hang anything on it. You can use a patching compound or a masonry sealer to repair the brick.

6. The Object Is Loose

If the object you are hanging is loose, you may need to tighten the screws or bolts that are holding it in place.

7. The Anchor Is Rusting

If the anchor is rusting, you will need to replace it with a new one. Rust can weaken the anchor and cause it to fail.

8. The Object Fell

If the object you were hanging fell, you may need to inspect the anchor and the brick for damage. You may also need to use a different type of anchor or a more secure method of hanging the object.

9. I Don’t Have Access to a Hammer and Drill

If you don’t have access to a hammer and drill, you can use a masonry adhesive to hang objects on brick. Masonry adhesive is a strong adhesive that will bond to brick without the need for nails or screws.

10. I’m Not Sure How to Choose the Right Anchor

If you’re not sure how to choose the right anchor, you can consult a hardware store employee or a professional. They will be able to help you choose the right anchor for your specific project.