Picture Hanging on Brick Walls: A Complete Guide

Hanging artwork on a brick wall can seem intimidating. Unlike drywall, brick requires the right tools, hardware, and planning to avoid permanent damage while ensuring your artwork stays secure.

Whether you're mounting a small framed print or a heavy mirror, this guide will help you choose the right approach for a safe and professional-looking installation.

Start with the Wall

Before drilling, inspect the condition of the brick and mortar.

Look for:

• Cracked or crumbling mortar

• Uneven brick surfaces

• Previous repairs or patching

• Obstacles like switches, mantels, or furniture

Remember that brick and mortar are different materials. Mortar is generally easier to drill and repair, while brick provides greater holding strength for heavier pieces.

Know the Weight of Your Artwork

Don't guess.

Weigh the artwork or check the manufacturer's specifications before selecting hardware.

The weight determines:

• Which anchor to use

• Whether mortar or brick is the better mounting location

• If one or two mounting points are needed

Large or heavy artwork should almost always use two mounting points to improve stability and prevent the frame from rotating.

Plan the Layout

Professional installations begin long before drilling.

A few simple steps make a huge difference:

• Find the center of the wall or furniture below the artwork.

• Use the 57–60 inch eye-level guideline as a starting point.

• Measure from the frame's hanging hardware—not just the frame itself.

• Tape the artwork outline to the wall with painter's tape.

• Verify everything with a level.

Taking a few extra minutes here prevents unnecessary holes and improves the final appearance.

Choose the Right Tools

A quality installation starts with the proper equipment.

You'll typically need:

• Hammer drill

• Masonry drill bit

• Tape measure

• Level

• Painter's tape

• Vacuum or brush to remove drilling dust

• Masonry anchors designed for brick or mortar

Cleaning dust from the drilled hole is an often-overlooked step that significantly improves anchor strength.

Selecting the Right Anchor

The best anchor depends on both the wall material and the weight of the artwork.

Light Artwork

Plastic masonry anchors or masonry screws installed into solid mortar often work well.

Medium to Heavy Artwork

Metal sleeve anchors or other masonry-rated hardware provide better long-term support and resistance to pull-out forces.

For valuable artwork or oversized pieces, brick face usually provides the strongest mounting surface when installed correctly.

How to Drill Properly

Accurate drilling is essential for a secure installation.

Follow these steps:

1. Mark the mounting locations carefully.

2. Place tape on the drill bit to indicate drilling depth.

3. Keep the drill perfectly perpendicular to the wall.

4. Drill slowly using a hammer drill.

5. Remove all masonry dust.

6. Install the anchor flush with the surface.

7. Tighten the hardware carefully without over-tightening.

After hanging the artwork, gently test for movement before considering the installation complete.

Are No-Drill Options Worth It?

Products like brick clips and adhesive strips can work—but only for lightweight, low-value decorations.

They're best suited for:

• Seasonal décor

• Small unframed prints

• Lightweight decorations

Avoid using no-drill products for:

• Heavy artwork

• Mirrors

• Glass-front frames

• Valuable artwork

• Stairways

• Children's rooms

• Artwork above beds or fireplaces

When safety or value is involved, mechanical anchors remain the most reliable solution.

Common Problems

If something doesn't feel right during installation, stop and reassess.

Common issues include:

• Drill bit won't penetrate the masonry

• Mortar crumbles during drilling

• Anchor feels loose

• Brick begins chipping

• Artwork won't stay level

Trying to force a poor installation often causes more damage than starting over with the correct hardware or mounting location.

When to Hire a Professional

Some projects are worth leaving to experienced installers.

Professional installation is recommended for:

• Heavy mirrors

• Oversized artwork

• Historic brick walls

• High ceilings

• Stairwells

• Gallery walls

• Valuable artwork

• Commercial installations

Professional installers assess the wall, select the correct hardware, ensure precise placement, and safely mount artwork while minimizing wall damage.

Final Thoughts

Picture hanging on brick walls isn't difficult when you have the right tools and plan ahead. Taking the time to inspect the wall, choose the proper anchors, and carefully measure your layout will result in a secure installation that looks professional for years to come.

If you're working with valuable artwork, heavy pieces, or challenging masonry, Colorado Art Services provides professional picture hanging and art installation throughout the Denver Metro area and Front Range. From single framed prints to large gallery walls, we ensure every installation is safe, level, and built to last.