Brick walls can be a gorgeous addition to a home when done well. They can be so nice that some people (including me!) will make do with brick wallpaper just to replicate the look!
But as nice as exposed brick can be, they can be a nightmare to hang lights on.
In this article, we’ll walk you through some simple tips and tricks to get your lights set up on your beautiful brick wall in no time.
Let’s take a look.
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How to hang lights on brick wall (Step by Step)
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and supplies. You’ll need:
- Drill
- Masonry bit (at least 3/16″ diameter)
- Screws or anchors (depending on the weight of your lights)
- Light fixture (our Nordic Coloured Glass Pendant Light maybe?) or string lights
- Measuring tape
- Pencil (I’m sure you have one of these already!)
- Level
Step 2: Choose the Right Location
The first step is to choose the right location on the wall for your lights.
Use your measuring tape and pencil to mark the location where you want to hang your lights.
Step 3: Drill Holes in the Brick
Next, use your drill and masonry bit to drill the necessary holes into the brick where you marked the location for your lights.
We have suggested you use a drill bit that is at least 3/16″ in diameter to ensure that your screws or anchors will fit securely.
Step 4: Install Screws or Anchors
Once you have drilled your holes, it’s time to install your screws or anchors.
Choose the appropriate option based on the weight of your lights. If you’re unsure, it’s better to err on the side of caution and use anchors, as these tend to be rated for a higher weight.
Step 5: Hang Your Lights
Finally, it’s time to hang your lights!
Attach your light fixture or string lights to the screws or anchors using the appropriate hardware.
It’s best to use your level here so that your lights are straight, and then you can make any additional adjustments as needed! This will only be relevant however if the top of your light has a flat surface you can rest your level on, of course.
Alternative Methods
As effective as the above method is, we realise it does require some drilling, which may be a no-go for some people.
As such, below are two additional methods for hanging lights on brick walls that don’t require drilling.
Don’t ever say we haven’t got you covered!
Brick Clips
What are Brick Clips?
Brick clips are small metal clips designed to securely attach to the surface of a brick wall, without the need for drilling into the wall to install them.
They typically consist of two prongs that grip onto the top and bottom of the brick, and a hook or clip that protrudes outwards to hold an object in place.
As well as being perfect for hanging light fixtures, they are also commonly used for hanging items such as pictures, decorations, and signs. But, due to their sturdiness, they can also be used to securely mount heavier objects like shelves and mirrors.
How to Install Brick Clips
Installing brick clips on a wall is incredibly simple.
First, you’ll want to make sure the surface is clean. It doesn’t have to be spotless, but you don’t want to install the clips only to find out that the brick beneath looks dirty so you’ll have to remove it to clean them.
Next, place the clip where you want it on the wall and ensure its level. Using a hammer, tap the clip’s teeth (above and below the brick) into the mortar joints between the bricks, which will secure it to the wall.
Easy!
Benefits of Brick Clips
Easy installation: One of the main benefits of using brick clips is that they make the installation process quick and easy. Unlike traditional installation methods that require drilling into the brick or mortar, brick clips can be attached to the wall without any special tools or equipment.
No damage to the wall: By using brick clips, you can avoid damaging the brick or mortar of your wall, as there is no need for any drilling. This is particularly important if you want to avoid leaving permanent holes or marks on your wall, or if you’re renting and don’t want to make any permanent changes to the property.
Adjustable placement: With traditional drilling, the placement of your light fixture is fixed, and any adjustments require drilling new holes elsewhere on the wall. With brick clips, you can easily adjust the placement of your light fixture without the need for additional drilling.
Cost-effective: Lastly, brick clips are far more cost-effective than traditional installation methods, which may require special tools, equipment, and professional installation services. This makes them a great option for DIY’ers or those on a budget.
Adhesive Hooks
What are Adhesive Hooks?
Adhesive hooks are a type of hook that can be attached to a surface using an adhesive backing, which negates the need for drilling holes into the surface.
They are designed to be strong enough to hold a certain amount of weight, depending on the hook’s capacity – this will be specified on the packet.
How to Install Adhesive Hooks
Much like the brick clip installation, attaching adhesive hooks to a brick wall is very straight-forward.
To use adhesive hooks for hanging lights on a brick wall, simply select hooks that are rated to hold the weight of your lights, clean the surface of the brick where you want to place the hooks, and attach the hooks to the wall according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Then, hang your lights from the hooks and enjoy the ambience they provide!
Conclusion
Hanging lights on a brick wall may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s a relatively simple process.
And don’t forget – there are options if you want to hang your lights without having to drill into the brick too!
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