How to Drill Into Brick and Masonry Safely

Drilling into brick seems straightforward until you try it. Then you're fighting the wall, burning through drill bits, and wondering why the hole looks like the surface of the moon.

Here's how to do it properly.

What You'll Need

• Combi drill with hammer function - A standard drill driver won't cut it. You need the hammer action. Check our combi drill range.
• Masonry drill bits - Look for carbide tips. They're designed for brick and concrete.
• Dust mask and safety glasses - Masonry dust isn't something you want in your lungs or eyes.
• Pencil and tape measure - For marking your holes.
• Vacuum or dustpan - The dust has to go somewhere.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Mark Your Hole Position

Measure twice, drill once. Use a pencil to mark exactly where you want the hole. If you're mounting something heavy, use a spirit level to make sure your marks are level.

2. Check for Hazards

Before drilling into any wall, check for:

• Electrical cables (use a detector)
• Water pipes (especially in kitchens and bathrooms)
• Gas pipes

This isn't optional. Hitting a cable can kill you. Hitting a pipe makes a very expensive mess.

3. Select the Right Bit Size

Match your drill bit to your wall plug size. The bit diameter should match the plug diameter. Common sizes:

• 5mm bit = red plugs (light loads)
• 6mm bit = brown plugs (medium loads)
• 8mm bit = larger plugs (heavy loads)

4. Set Your Drill to Hammer Mode

Most combi drills have a mode selector. Look for the hammer symbol. This activates the percussion action that breaks up the masonry as you drill.

5. Start Slowly

Position the bit on your mark. Start at low speed to establish the hole. Once you've got a small indent, increase speed and apply steady pressure.

6. Let the Drill Do the Work

Don't force it. Steady pressure is better than pushing hard. If you're pushing with all your weight, either your bit is blunt or you're not in hammer mode.

7. Clear the Dust

Periodically pull the bit out to clear dust from the hole. This helps the bit cut more efficiently and reduces heat buildup.

8. Check Your Depth

Your plug needs to sit flush with or just below the surface. Mark the required depth on your drill bit with tape so you know when to stop.

Common Problems and Solutions

The Bit Keeps Slipping

You've hit a hard spot, probably flint or a pebble in the concrete. Apply steady pressure and let the hammer action work. If it's really stubborn, try a new bit - yours might be blunt.

The Hole is Too Big

You've been wobbling the drill. Start again with a fresh spot, keeping the drill perpendicular to the wall. A guide helps if you struggle with this.

The Dust is Overwhelming

Have someone hold a vacuum nozzle near the hole while you drill. Makes cleanup much easier and keeps dust out of your lungs.

The Wall is Crumbling

Some older bricks are soft. Use a slightly larger plug to compensate, or consider using a different fixing method like chemical anchors.

Tools That Help

A quality combi drill makes all the difference. DeWalt, Bosch, and Black + Decker all make reliable options. See our best-selling power tools for what's popular.

Good masonry bits are worth the investment. They last longer, cut cleaner, and make the job easier.

Got questions about drilling or need help choosing the right tools? We're here to help.