It is possible to attach wood to bricks or masonry in different ways. Just keep in mind that the method of attachment highly depends on what you are attaching and purpose. Masonry or brick is a very hard material, that’s why a normal wood hammer will not work particularly well. It is important to wear safety glasses for eye protection, to prevent small brick chips or concrete from entering the eyes while you are working. Let’s learn how to attach wood to bricks!
Things You’ll Need
- Pair of gloves
- Protective eye wear
- Marking tool
- Hammer drill (you can also use regular drill w/ carbide bit)
- Heavy hammer
- Expansion fasteners
- Pre-drilled fasteners
- Measuring tape
- Water
- Soap
- Scrub brush
Different Ways to Attach a Wood to Bricks
Using Glue
Glue is considered the simplest and cheapest method of attaching wood to bricks. However, it should be used only as a temporary hold. You can also use it in conjunction with another attachment method.
Step #1
First of all, make sure that surfaces are dry and clean. You can scrub the surfaces with a scrub brush and a soap and water solution to ensure dirt and debris are removed. Let them dry overnight and avoid soaking the wood because it may lead to warping.
Step #2
It is important to measure and mark the location exactly where the wood will be joining the masonry.
Step #3
When applying the glue, simply pace glue onto the wood surface in beads, and then stick the wood to the brick. You’ll need to hold the piece of wood in place until the glue is dry or you can also use masonry nails to hold the wood in place.
Using Nails
Nailing the wood to concrete is also possible. However, it will not make the most perfect bond. As long as you are looking for a temporary connection or one that is not especially solid, then nailing will work. You’ll need to use masonry nails bought at hardware stores.
Step #1
You have to measure and mark the location where you’ll attach the wood to the masonry bricks.
Step #2
Hammer the nails into the wood wherein it should barely protrude. You can use a heavy hammer for the job. You can apply some glue on the wood surface as an extra adhesion. Hold the wood in place and use a heavy hammer so the nails are driven into the brick.
Using Special Pre-drilled Fasteners
When using pre-drilled fasteners, you have to drill a hole into the bricks using a hammer drill. You can either rent or buy one. A good alternative is using a normal drill and fitted with a carbide bit. But this method will need some time drilling each hole, most especially if you need to drill plenty of holes.
Step #1
Marking the holes is the first step, to have a basis for drilling. Drill to bore the surface and mark again. The hole should be deep with a similar length of the fastener. Also, don’t forget to mark the location where the wood will line up properly with the drilled holes.
Step #2
Apply beads of glue to the wood for an extra bonding before securing the fasteners.
Step #3
Next, you need to drive the fasteners. Holding the wood in place, ensure that your mark lines up properly with the hole. Drive the fastener using a heavy hammer through the wood into the hole you have drilled, holding the wood securely against the brick or stone.
Using Special Expansion Fasteners
Expansion fasteners are the easiest and most secure way of attaching wood to bricks. You’ll need a hammer drill for this method.
Step #1
Measure the wood and use a hammer drill to create a hole in the masonry (a quarter of an inch deeper as compared to the wood’s thickness).
Step #2
Mark the surface wood on the spot when inserting the fastener and making sure that it lines up properly with the pre-drilled hole.
Step #3
Insert the expander portion of the fastener into the created hole and use a heavy hammer to drive the expansion fastener through the wood. Don’t forget to tighten the fastener securely in the hole.
YouTube Videos
Conclusion
Attaching wood pieces to bricks is not easy like picking up a nail and a hammer, but it is not impossible. If you want to add a shelf or hang pictures and art crafts to your brick wall, there are many ways to do so. Most of the materials you’ll need are readily available in your nearest local hardware store. We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Do you find it helpful? Share your thoughts and comment below.
