How to Set a Timber Frame to Bricks

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Drill

  • ¼ inch wood bit

  • Tape measure

  • Rotary mason's bit

  • Masking tape

  • Concrete screws

  • Number one phillips screw tip

Attaching timber to brick presents a unique challenge.

Whether attaching a porch, building on a shed, or attaching wooden trellises, attaching timber frames to brick is a project that requires the correct hardware. This used to mean, the use of multi-piece lead anchors, or specialty nails that risked shattering your brick. Recently technology has provided a better solution in a concrete screw that works much the same as a standard screw without the need for anchor sleeves. When working with traditional cordless drills, use a rotary mason's bit, rather than one designed for use with a hammer drill.

Advertisement

Step 1

Drill pilot holes through the frame where it will be in contact with the brick with a ¼ inch bit. Space them evenly at least every 12 inches, more frequently for frames that will put weight on the wall. For wider frame boards, drill two rows of holes along any board that comes in contact with the wall, one 2 inches in from either long edge.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

Step 2

Position the frame against the wall where it will rest. Drill through the pilot holes you bored in the frame board into the face of the brick with a 3/16 inch rotary mason's bit to a depth of 1/8-inch to mark the position for pilot holes. Hold the frame steady, so that all holes stay properly aligned.

Advertisement

Step 3

Remove the frame from the brick and set it aside. Measure from the tip of the drill bit back 1 1/2 inches and wrap a piece of masking tape around the bit to mark the depth. Drill a pilot hole in each of the spots you marked with the bit previously. Bore each hole until the front edge of the tape is even with the face of the wall. Apply steady pressure and allow the bit to do the work without forcing it, which can cause chipping in your brick. Blow the brick dust from each hole so that the concrete anchor will fit properly.

Advertisement

Step 4

Reposition the frame against the brick, aligning the holes in the frame with the holes in the brick. Drive a ¼ inch tapcon-style concrete screw through each hole in the frame into the corresponding hole in the brick. Use a screw 1 ½ inches longer than the thickness of your frame. For example, a frame made of 2 by lumber would require a 3 inch concrete screw. Tighten the screws until the heads are flush with the face of the timber frame. Use a number one phillips screw tip, or the tip that comes with your concrete screws.

Advertisement

references

Report an Issue

screenshot of the current page

Screenshot loading...