How to Fasten Bolts Into Brick
Using bolts to attach anything to brick takes a little more planning than hanging things on drywall or wood. Brick will often fall apart when you drill into it, and the screw holes will wear down over time with pressure from the screws. Use the right tools and follow the correct steps to make fastening bolts into brick simple and easy. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Identify the spot on the brick where you would like to hang your item and install your bolt. Choose a spot in the middle of the brick rather than the mortar. The brick will be a sturdier choice. Mark the spot with a pencil.
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2
Choose a molly and bolt. A molly is a bracket that expands when you screw the bolt into place, creating a stronger grip on the brick. Mollies and bolts are rated by the weight of the object they can support. Choose a molly and bolt that can support the weight of your object.
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3
Drill a pilot hole at the pencil mark. Use a masonry bit to drill a hole in the wall. Make sure you use a masonry bit rather than a regular drill bit. Regular drill bits will be ruined when used on brick. Choose a masonry bit that is the appropriate size for your project. The packaging on the bolt should indicate what size drill bit to use with your bolt.
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4
Insert a molly into the hole. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the molly into the hole until it is flush with the brick.
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Attach the bolt to the molly. Use a screwdriver to attach the bolt into the molly. If you are hanging an item with a bracket, hold the bracket over the molly and attach the bracket to the wall with the screws.
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Tips & Warnings
Using a masonry bit to drill into a brick wall will generate a lot of dust. Cover the flooring underneath and be prepared with a vacuum to clean up the mess.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit bolt image by Petr Gnuskin from Fotolia.com
