Are you planning to hang up that beautiful piece of artwork or finally install those much-needed shelves on your brick walls?
Brick walls offer a classic and timeless appeal, but finding the right anchors to fasten objects securely can be daunting.
When it comes to hanging objects on brick walls, finding the right anchor is of utmost importance. Unlike other surfaces, such as drywall or wood, brick presents unique challenges due to its composition and texture.
In this blog, we will review the 3 best anchors for brick walls that I have tested so that you can find the most suitable one for your project.
Best Anchors for Brick – Product Review
In this section, I will present the top anchors for brick walls. Let’s find the perfect anchor to ensure your brick installations are secure and hassle-free.
Features | CONFAST Stainless Steel Wedge Anchor | Unvert Heavy Duty Drywall Toggle Anchor | GATEWAY Drywall Anchors and Screws Kit |
Material | 304 Stainless Steel | Zinc, Toggle design | Nylon, Stainless Steel, Fiberglass-Reinforced Nylon |
Installation Method | Requires drilling with a hammer drill and carbide-tipped bit | Self-drilling with a screwdriver | Self-drilling with a screwdriver |
Suitable Applications | Concrete and brick | Drywall, concrete, brick, wood, etc. | Drywall, wood, plaster, etc. |
Weight Capacity | 50 lbs (22.68 kg) | Up to 100 lbs (45.36 kg) | 50 lbs (22.68 kg) |
Warranty | Industry-leading warranties | Industry-leading warranties | Industry-leading warranties |
CONFAST Stainless Steel Wedge Anchor
Description & Features
- Made from 304 Stainless Steel: Resistant to rust, suitable for wet and submerged environments.
- Wide Range of Sizes: Ensures the right fit for different applications.
- Packaged with Nuts and Washers: Provides everything needed for fast and convenient installation.
- Hole Size is Anchor Size: Simplifies the installation process.
- Durable Construction: Stainless Steel 304 material for long-lasting performance.
- Versatile Usage: Designed for concrete and brick applications.
- Wet Environment Compatibility: Suitable for use in wet conditions.
- Precise Drilling: Requires a 3/8″ hole drilled with a carbide-tipped bit and a hammer drill.
- Strong Anchor: 3/8″ diameter for reliable fastening.
- Ample Length: 3-3/4″ anchor size for various installation needs.
- Secure Threads: 2-1/4″ thread length for a secure grip.
- Minimum Embedment: Requires a minimum of 1-1/2″ anchor embedment in concrete.
- Maximum Fixture Thickness: Supports materials up to 1-7/8″ thickness for versatility.
- Precise Torque Setting: Torque between 25 – 30 ft./lbs for optimal performance.
- Requires a 1/2″ hole in the fixture for proper installation.
- Maintain a minimum distance of 3-3/4″ between anchors for stability.
- Avoid installation closer than 1-7/8″ from unsupported concrete edges.
Pros
- Made of non-magnetic stainless steel, ensuring resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Durable and long-lasting construction for reliable anchoring.
- Suitable for use in various environments, including corrosive and coastal areas.
- Comes in a box of 10, providing value for money and convenience.
- Easy to install and provides secure anchoring for different applications.
- Works as expected and performs well in holding capacity.
- Excellent performance in saltwater environments, making them ideal for coastal regions like South Florida.
- Superior durability and resistance to rust compared to galvanized anchors.
- Provides reliable anchoring for docks, ensuring stability and longevity.
- Cost-effective in the long run, as they outlast galvanized anchors that may rust within 10 years.
- Compatible with wood materials, allowing you to preserve the integrity of the wood.
Cons
- Some anchors lack a tapered top, which can lead to issues if the top of the bolt is dinged or damaged during installation.
- Washers were shipped loose in the box, resulting in missing washers upon receipt.
- The design of the bolts requires tapping them into the hole with a hammer, which can cause warping and difficulty in threading the nuts.
- Cutting the top of the bolts may be necessary to ensure proper threading of the nuts, which adds extra effort and may affect the integrity of the anchor.
CONFAST Stainless Steel Wedge Anchor | Price |
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Unvert Heavy Duty Drywall Toggle Ancor
Description & Features
- Fastener Type: E, Stud.
- Easy Installation: No hole preparation required, self-drilling design for fast and smooth installation.
- Zinc-Toggle Design: Zinc material provides strength and prevents splitting; toggle design offers tight and secure hold from both sides.
- Multi-Purpose: Suitable for various applications, including hanging pictures, decorative plates, and shelves.
- Versatile Installation: Can be installed in drywall, concrete, brick, tile, plaster, stucco, wood, and similar materials.
- Compatible with Various Drywall Sizes: Anchor locks into 3/8″, 1/2″, or 5/8″ gypsum wallboard.
- Kit Contents: Includes 5 toggle anchors and 5 Phillip screws #8 x 2-1/8″ for a total of 10 pieces.
- Compact and Convenient: Lightweight at 3.9 ounces.
- Suitable for Private and Construction Use: Designed for both personal and professional applications.
- No Drill Required: Can be easily installed using a simple screwdriver.
- Secure and Strong Hold: Self-drilling anchor cuts threads into drywall, increasing the bearing surface and strength of the fastening and capable of supporting weight up to 100 pounds.
- Resealable Packaging: Comes in a plastic container for convenient storage and organization.
- Reliable Warranty: Backed by industry-leading warranties and guaranteed to exceed expectations.
- Customer Satisfaction: Dedicated customer support for replacements or returns if unsatisfied.
Pros
- Easy to use, making installation hassle-free.
- Provides strong support for hanging items on the wall.
- Highly reliable and sturdy, ensuring items stay securely in place.
- Suitable for various applications, such as towel bars, mini split heads, and heavy mirrors.
- Convenient all-in-one design with a Philips head on both the anchor and screw, simplifying installation.
- Dependable performance reported by multiple users, indicating their satisfaction and confidence in the product’s strength and reliability.
Cons
- Need help removing the anchor if a mistake is made during installation.
- Inconsistent screw quality reported by a user, with thinner screws that don’t securely catch the threads.
Unvert Heavy Duty Drywall Toggle Ancor | Price |
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GATEWAY Drywall Anchors and Screws Kit
Description & Features
- Color: Available in silver and white options.
- Material: Made of durable materials, including nylon, stainless steel, and fiberglass-reinforced nylon.
- Weight: Weighs approximately 9.28 ounces.
- Multi-Purpose Heavy Duty: Suitable for various home renovation or repair projects. It can be used to hang pictures, mount TVs, curtains and drapery rods, wall brackets and hangers for storage bins, coat racks, plant holders, shelves, and cabinets.
- Self-Drilling Easy Installation: No pre-drilling or pilot holes are required. Self-drilling drywall anchors simplify the installation process. It can be installed quickly with just one drill bit or screwdriver.
- Long-lasting Durability: Constructed with reinforced nylon, providing strength and ensuring longevity. With a holding strength of 50 lbs (22.68 kg), these anchors offer reliable support.
- Professional Results: Designed to deliver a clean and seamless finished product. The anchors and screws are precision-sized to fit flush with the drywall, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Fiberglass-Reinforced Nylon Material: The use of fiberglass-reinforced nylon provides additional strength and makes these anchors ideal for heavy-duty applications.
- Easy Installation: No pilot holes or pre-drilling required. The triple-tip design drills its own pilot hole and allows for direct screwing into drywall. Versatile for various applications.
- Built to Last: The fiberglass-reinforced nylon anchors are designed to withstand the test of time, ensuring long-lasting performance for heavy-duty hanging tasks.
- Splits for Grip: The innovative splitting function activates after screwing in the anchor, expanding the teeth into the drywall for a secure and reliable mounting point.
Pros
- Superior performance compared to standard pound-in type anchors, providing increased weight capacity and being gentler on drywall.
- Effectively solves problems with loose shelf brackets, offering a reliable solution.
- Versatile and suitable for a wide range of professional and personal projects.
- Cost-effective, offering better results than higher-priced alternatives.
- Easy to use, eliminating the need for pre-drilling holes.
- Holds screws securely, ensuring stability and durability.
Cons
- Some users experienced slight wobbling during installation, potentially due to the recommended drill bit sizes not being a perfect fit.
- In certain cases, the anchor’s drill feature may not work as expected, requiring the use of a separate drill bit to create a hole.
- The anchor may leave a larger hole compared to the size of the screw, requiring filling when moving out.
GATEWAY Drywall Anchors and Screws Kit | Price |
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How to Pick the Best Anchor for Brick? – Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to installing objects on brick walls, choosing the right anchor is crucial for a secure and long-lasting attachment.
The strength and durability of brick require specific anchors designed to withstand its unique properties.
In this comprehensive buyer’s guide, I will walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting the best anchor for brick, ensuring your installations stay firmly in place.
Consider the Load Capacity
The first step in choosing the right anchor is determining the weight or load it needs to support.
Anchors come with varying weight capacities, so it’s important to match the anchor’s load capacity with the weight of the object you intend to hang.
Ensure the anchor you choose has a load capacity that exceeds the weight of your item to provide a secure and stable installation.
Types of Anchors for Brick
There are several types of anchors suitable for brick walls, including sleeve anchors, wedge anchors, and expansion anchors. Each type has its own installation method and advantages.
Sleeve anchors, for example, expand against the sides of the hole when tightened, providing a strong grip. Wedge anchors, on the other hand, use a wedge-shaped end to secure tightly into the brick.
Consider the specific requirements of your project and choose an anchor type that best suits your needs.
Anchor Size and Length
Selecting the right anchor size and length is crucial to ensure proper installation and maximum holding strength.
The anchor’s size and length should match the brick’s thickness and the hole’s depth. Choosing an anchor long enough to penetrate deep into the brick is important for optimal stability.
Measure the thickness of the brick and the depth of the hole carefully to determine the appropriate anchor size and length.
Material Compatibility
Anchors come in various materials, including stainless steel, zinc-plated steel, and nylon. Consider the environmental conditions in which the anchor will be used.
If the installation is exposed to moisture or outdoor elements, stainless steel or zinc-plated steel anchors are recommended due to their corrosion resistance.
For indoor applications, nylon anchors can be suitable. Ensure the anchor material is compatible with the conditions of your project to prevent deterioration or rust.
Installation Method
Different anchors require specific installation methods, and choosing one that aligns with your skill level and available tools is essential.
Some anchors may require pre-drilling holes, while others have self-drilling capabilities.
Consider the installation process and ensure you have the necessary tools and expertise to complete it successfully.
Consider Expansion and Contraction
Brick walls can undergo expansion and contraction due to temperature changes, and this movement can affect the stability of the anchor.
To accommodate this movement, consider using anchors with some flexibility, such as sleeve anchors or expansion anchors.
These types of anchors can adjust to the brick’s slight movement, maintaining a secure hold over time.
Explaining 3 Types of Brick Anchors
When it comes to anchoring objects to brick walls, there are three common types of anchors: sleeve anchors, wedge anchors, and expansion anchors. Let’s explore these anchors in more detail:
Sleeve Anchors
Sleeve anchors are versatile and widely used for securing objects to brick walls.
They consist of a threaded stud, a cone-shaped nut, and a sleeve that expands against the sides of the hole when tightened.
This expansion creates a secure grip and distributes the load over a larger area, enhancing the anchor’s stability.
Benefits
- Sleeve anchors are known for their high load capacity, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.
- These anchors can be easily adjusted or removed if necessary, providing flexibility during installation or when repositioning objects.
- Sleeve anchors can be used with brick and concrete, block, and other solid masonry materials.
Common Uses
- Securing shelving units, cabinets, and heavy wall-mounted objects.
- Installing handrails, light fixtures, and curtain rods.
- Mounting outdoor structures like awnings and satellite dishes.
Wedge Anchors
Wedge anchors are specifically designed for secure fastening in brick and concrete. They feature a cone-shaped end and threads along the shaft.
When tightened, the wedge anchor expands against the walls of the drilled hole, providing a tight and reliable hold.
Benefits
- Wedge anchors offer excellent holding power, making them suitable for applications where stability is crucial.
- They can be installed quickly by inserting the anchor into a pre-drilled hole and tightening the nut with a wrench or a socket.
- Wedge anchors can support substantial weight and are commonly used in structural applications.
Common Uses
- Securing structural components, such as columns, beams, and posts.
- Installing equipment and machinery on brick walls.
- Anchoring heavy-duty brackets, brackets, and supports.
Expansion Anchors
Expansion anchors, also known as mechanical anchors, work by expanding within the drilled hole to create a secure grip.
These anchors consist of a bolt or screw, an expansion sleeve, and a nut or washer. As the anchor is tightened, the expansion sleeve expands, gripping the sides of the hole tightly.
Benefits
- Expansion anchors can be used with various base materials, including brick, concrete, and block. They are simple to install, requiring only basic tools.
- Expansion anchors are available in different sizes and lengths, allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your specific project.
- These anchors can handle moderate to heavy loads, depending on the size and type chosen.
Common Uses
- Securing electrical boxes, conduit straps, and light fixtures to brick walls.
- Hanging shelves, mirrors, and artwork.
- Mounting signage and decorative elements.
By understanding the benefits and uses of sleeve, wedge, and expansion anchors, you can make an informed decision to ensure a secure and reliable attachment to your brick walls.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, choosing the right anchor for your brick wall is crucial to ensure the stability and security of your installations.
Sleeve anchors offer versatility, while wedge anchors provide strong holding power, and expansion anchors are easy to install.
Consider the weight of your objects and the specific requirements of your project when selecting an anchor.
By making an informed choice, you can confidently hang shelves, mount fixtures, and secure heavy objects to your brick walls with peace of mind.
FAQ
What is the best way to anchor to a brick wall?
One popular option is using self-tapping brick anchors, which provide reliable fastening.
Another widely used choice is concrete screws, often referred to as Tapcon® masonry screws.
These heavy-duty screws offer versatility and can be used in various brick applications, including mortar joints, CMU, block, or solid concrete.
With their strength and adaptability, self-tapping brick anchors and concrete screws are excellent solutions for anchoring to brick walls.
Can I use a plastic anchor in brick?
While light-duty ribbed plastic anchors can be used in various applications such as concrete, hollow block, and wallboard, using them in solid brick is generally not recommended.
Solid brick requires more robust and specialized anchors to ensure proper stability and secure attachment.
For solid brick applications, it is advisable to use anchors specifically designed for brick, such as metal anchors or heavy-duty masonry screws, which provide a stronger grip and reliable support.