How to Drill into Brick Like a Pro

How to Drill into Brick like a Pro

Drilling into brick is an essential DIY skill, whether you're mounting a TV, putting up shelves, or installing curtain poles.

Unlike plasterboard, brick provides a solid and durable surface for fixings—but you can’t just screw directly into it. You need the right drill, fixings, and rawlplugs to ensure a secure hold.

At Fix and Fast, we know that choosing the right tools and techniques makes all the difference. This guide will walk you through how to drill into brick safely and efficiently, so your fixings stay strong for years to come.

What You’ll Need to Drill Into Brick

Before you get started, make sure you have the right tools and safety gear:

✔ Drill – A hammer drill is best for brick as it combines rotation with a hammering action to drive the drill bit through masonry. A regular drill can work for softer brick but will struggle with harder surfaces.

✔ Masonry Drill Bit – These have carbide or tungsten tips designed for drilling into brick. Match the size of the drill bit to the rawlplug you’ll be using.

✔ Rawlplugs (Wall Plugs) – These small plastic fixings expand inside the hole, creating a secure anchor for screws.

✔ Screws – Choose high-quality screws suited to your rawlplug size and the weight of what you’re fixing.

✔ Cable and Pipe Detector – Essential for checking there are no electrical wires or pipes where you plan to drill.

✔ PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) – Safety glasses, dust mask, and gloves will keep you safe from flying debris and dust.

Step-by-Step Guide to Drilling into Brick

1. Check for Wires and Pipes

Before drilling, use a cable and pipe detector to check for hidden hazards. Accidentally hitting a pipe or live wire can lead to costly repairs—or worse, serious injury.

2. Mark Your Drilling Point

Use a pencil to mark where you want to drill. If you're hanging something that requires multiple holes, use a spirit level to ensure perfect alignment.

💡 Fix and Fast Tip: Before drilling, press the drill bit lightly against the brick to create a small dent—this will stop the bit from slipping when you start drilling.

3. Choose the Right Drill and Bit

For best results, use a hammer drill with a masonry drill bit. If your drill has a depth stop, set it to match the length of your rawlplug. If not, wrap some masking tape around the drill bit to mark the depth.

4. Drill into the Brick

Hold the drill perpendicular to the wall and start at a slow speed to prevent the bit from skidding. Once the hole is started, increase speed and apply steady pressure. If using a hammer drill, let the tool do the work—don’t force it.

💡 Fix and Fast Tip: If drilling a deep hole, pull the drill out occasionally while it’s running to remove brick dust and prevent overheating.

5. Clean the Hole

Brick dust can stop a rawlplug from fitting snugly. Use a wire brush, vacuum cleaner or blow pump to remove any loose dust before inserting the plug.

6. Insert the Rawlplug

Push the rawlplug into the hole—if it’s tight, gently tap it in with a hammer until it's flush with the surface. If it slides in too easily, you may need a larger plug.

💡 Fix and Fast Tip: Plastic rawlplugs are best for general use, but for heavier loads, use metal or expanding anchors.

7. Screw into the Rawlplug

Using a screwdriver or impact driver, insert the screw into the rawlplug. Tighten it firmly, but don’t overtighten, as this can damage the plug.

Troubleshooting: Common Drilling Problems

🔴 Drill Won’t Go In?

• Check that your drill is set to the correct rotation (clockwise).
• Ensure your battery is charged if using a cordless drill.
• If the brick is particularly hard, try a rotary hammer drill for extra power.

🔴 Rawlplug is Loose?

• Use a larger rawlplug or a stronger fixing like a metal anchor.
• If the hole is too big, apply grip adhesive before inserting the plug.

🔴 Brick is Cracking?

• Always drill at least 1 inch away from the edge of the brick.
• Use a smaller pilot hole before drilling the full-size hole.

Fixing Heavy Items? Here’s What You Need

For heavier installations, like TV brackets, large shelves, or outdoor fixtures, consider using:

✔ Heavy-duty wall anchors – These provide extra strength in masonry. Read our anchor bolt blog here

✔ Coach screws and wall plugs – Ideal for heavy shelves or furniture.


✔ Chemical fixings – A resin anchor system can provide extreme holding power. For more information on Resin anchors check out our blog here

Final Thoughts from Fix and Fast

Drilling into brick may seem intimidating, but with the right drill, fixings, and technique, it’s a straightforward task.

Whether you’re hanging shelves, mounting a TV, or fixing outdoor decorations, following these steps will ensure your screws stay secure and your fixings last.

For top-quality drill bits, rawlplugs, and screws, check out our wide range at Fix and Fast—because great DIY starts with the right tools and fixings.