How To Drill Into Brick Without Hammer Drill– Easy Methods

How To Drill Into Brick Without Hammer Drill

Do you want to float some shelves or a TV up on your brick wall, but there isn’t a hammer drill in the garage? You can use a basic power drill to bore into brick and concrete but it is very hard unless you have the proper bit.

Masonry — Drilling into a hard material like stone is going to take more elbow grease than simply drilling through wood. It falls very well within the capabilities of an average DIYer with something more than a run-of-the-mill drill, however— provided he or she utilizes some pretty straightforward techniques to surmount that extra toughness and density.

Keep reading for the full DIY on how to drill into brick and concrete like a pro without buying some overpriced rotary hammer.

Choosing the Best Drill Bit for Drilling into Brick

The most important thing for drilling into brick without a hammer drill is using the proper masonry drill bit. Regular drill bits will be practically useless on brick or concrete. You need an exceptionally hard, durable masonry bit made to grind through tough materials.

Choose bits that are labeled “carbide tipped” or designed for masonry. Carbide is a very tough material that provides wear security for drilling holes in brick and also concrete. The other ones are the masonry bits that will have a different tip compared to regular drill bits.

Standard twist bits or spade bits simply won’t stand up to brick drilling for more than a few seconds before becoming dull. Always opt for masonry bits for any drilling into concrete, brick, tile, or stone.

In addition to the carbide tip, masonry drill bits have a fluted shank to channel away brick dust. This helps keep the bit from overheating as you drill. Special grooves also improve cutting power. Simply put – you must use masonry bits for brick drilling.

What Size Masonry Bit for Drilling into Brick?

For most basic drilling into brick, a standard 5/32″, 3/16″ or 1/4″ masonry bit will do the trick. Match the size to the anchor bolt, screw, or fastener you’ll be installing into the hole. Small masonry bits around 1/8” are good for shallow pilot holes. For larger holes, step up to a 3/8″ or 1/2″ masonry bit. Just make sure your regular drill has enough power to turn the larger bits – they put more load on the motor.

For heavy-duty drilling into concrete, masonry bits are available in sizes up to 1″ in diameter or larger. Buy a set of graduated masonry bits so you can start with a smaller pilot hole and work your way up to the full size. Starting with a pilot hole makes drilling easier and helps guide the larger bit.

Can a Regular Drill Work for Brick and Concrete?

The good news is you don’t need an expensive rotary hammer drill to drill into brick, concrete blocks, or poured concrete. A regular power drill can certainly do the job. The key factors are:

• Having a carbide-tipped masonry drill bit
• A powerful drill with plenty of torque
• Patience and the right techniques

For best results, choose a corded drill with a powerful motor – 800+ watts is ideal. Cordless drills work too, but may drain the battery quickly under the heavy load of masonry drilling. Just be prepared to bear down and let the masonry bit grind away steadily without forcing it.

The drill needs ample torque, which is twisting force, to overcome the unyielding resistance of concrete or brick. Turning the speed down on a variable trigger helps create more torque. So in terms of drill requirements, favor torque over speed when drilling masonry without a hammer function.

How to Drill into Brick with a Regular Drill

It takes finesse and patience to drill into brick or concrete with a standard drill. Here are some key tips to help you drill clean, precise holes:

Drill Pilot Holes First

It’s always smart to start drilling brick or concrete by making a pilot hole with a smaller masonry bit like 1/8″ or 5/32″. This pilot hole guides the larger bit and makes starting the full-sized hole much easier by removing the densest material first.

Take It Slow

Let the masonry bit do the hard work by maintaining a steady pressure and speed. Forcing the drill or pushing too hard can damage the carbide tip. Be patient and let the bit grind away at its own pace. Applying cutting oil or water will make drilling easier.

Pull Out Regularly to Clear Dust

Dust buildup in the flutes will cause excess friction and overheating. Frequently back the masonry bit out of the hole to clear debris. Cooling the bit this way prevents premature dulling.

Use a Depth Stop

Adjust your drill so the masonry bit doesn’t drill deeper than necessary once the hole is complete. Going too far into the brick or concrete can damage the bit. A depth stop provides controlled, precise drilling.

Lubricate the Bit

For larger diameter holes, lubricating the masonry bit with water or cutting oil will extend its life dramatically. The liquid cools the bit and reduces friction. Just let the bit cut while applying light pressure.

Follow these tips carefully, be patient, and you can drill perfect holes into brick or concrete without a hammer drill. It just requires a light touch and letting the masonry bit work without forcing it. And remember – always use carbide-tipped bits designed for masonry drilling.

What About Using an Impact Driver for Brick Drilling?

A hammer drill uses a special hammering action that pounds while the bit spins to drill into masonry. Some wonder if an impact driver can work similarly for drilling into brick. Impact drivers provide intense rotational force and quick impacts to drive screws and bolts effortlessly. However, they lack the heavy-duty hammering action needed for drilling.

 So while an impact driver may be able to drill a very shallow hole in brick, it won’t have the power to go deeper. Stick to using a traditional power drill for any substantial drilling into brick or concrete. Impact drivers simply can’t provide enough concentrated, hammering force. Don’t rely on an impact driver for masonry drilling.

FAQs

How much power do I need in a drill for brick drilling?

Look for a more powerful corded drill with 800+ watts if possible. Variable speed is also useful to provide extra torque. Cordless drills work but drain battery life quickly.

Can I use a regular drill bit on brick?

Not. Regular drill bits cannot withstand the hardness and friction of drilling into brick or concrete. Only use masonry bits.

How can I keep a masonry bit cool while drilling brick?

Pull it out regularly to clear dust from the flutes. Applying water or cutting oil will also help lubricate and cool the bit. Reduce friction and overheating to preserve the carbide tip.

How much pressure should I apply when drilling brick?

Don’t force the drill. Apply light, and steady pressure to let the masonry bit grind away the material. Too much pressure can damage the delicate carbide tip. Be patient.

How do I know when to replace a worn masonry bit?

Replace the bit when the drilling speed becomes very slow or the bit starts producing only powder instead of shavings. Dull masonry bits must be replaced for effective drilling.

Key Takeaways for Drilling into Brick Without a Hammer Drill

• Use carbide-tipped masonry drill bits rated for brick and concrete
• Standard power drills can drill brick if you apply steady pressure
• Start with a small pilot hole before using larger diameter bits
• Pull the masonry bit out regularly to clear debris and cool the bit
• Add water or cutting oil to lubricate the bit when drilling deep holes
• Don’t force the drill – let the masonry bit grind through steadily

With the right drill bits and techniques, you can drill clean holes in brick, concrete blocks, tiles, and other masonry using a standard power drill. Just have patience and let the specialized masonry bit do its job. Follow this guide and you’ll achieve professional results without needing an expensive hammer drill