How to Use Brick Anchors

Brick anchors are put into brickwork to hold loads. There are different types of anchors for different types of masonry—concrete requires concrete anchors, for example. Several factors need to be considered when using brick anchors and they need to be installed in a specific way in order to be truly effective.

Step 1 - Application

Before installing brick anchors there are some questions that need to be answered. What will the anchor be used for? The application will dictate the type of anchor to be used. With a male anchor the installation is permanent. With a female anchor whatever is attached can be removed and reinstalled.

Step 2 - Forces

You also need to consider the forces that will be exerted on the brick anchors. There are 2. One pulls downward while the other tries to pull it out of the wall. These determine the holding value of the brick anchor to be used. Make sure the holding value is higher than the forces that will be exerted or the anchor will drag out of the wall.

Step 3 - Type of Brick

Be aware of the type of brick. Use low impact or low torque anchor when placing anchors into hard bricks. For soft bricks a draw up anchor (that means a machine screw anchor or a sleeve anchor) is the best thing to use.

Step 4 - Drilling

When drilling into brick for brick anchors, always wear eye protection. Use safety goggles rather than safety glasses for this type of work. You need to have a hammer drill to pierce the brickwork, and use a carbide tipped drill. This will remain sharp and make a clean hole.

The bit needs to be slightly smaller in diameter than the brick anchors. Measure the length of the brick anchor and mark that on the drill bit with a piece of masking tape. This will ensure that you don’t drill a hole that’s too deep. Hold the drill perpendicular to the wall.

Step 5 - Pre-Anchor

After drilling the hole it needs to be cleaned out with compressed air; canned air is ideal for this. Debris will clog the hole and prevent the anchor from sitting properly. To help the brick anchors remain firm in the hole, squirt in a small amount of epoxy. You can also use stone adhesive for this job. Don’t be excessive. You only need a tiny amount to help make the brick anchors more secure.

Step 6 - Anchor

Put the anchor over the hole and try to push it in. You might be able to put the tip in the hole. Use a hammer to tap it into the hole. Go slowly so the brickwork doesn’t crack. Keep forcing the brick anchors in until the anchor is flush with the wall. Repeat for the other brick anchors. Don’t put any weight on the brick anchors immediately. Give the epoxy 24 hours to dry fully before using the anchors.