I'm looking to install some metal shelves against a 50-year-old brick wall and want to use the brick footings for the shelf brackets. I'm concerned about whether drilling into the brick will weaken the structure. I was considering using epoxy anchors with some 2x4s resting on the ground and attaching the shelves to those. Is this a good plan?
3 Answers
As long as the mortar and the brick itself are in good shape, you should be fine! Just make sure to use a masonry bit with a hammer drill. Avoid drilling into the mortar lines, though, as it can weaken the connection and lead to problems down the line.
Having worked with brick for years, I'd recommend using a standard combi drill on the hammer setting instead of an SDS drill, as the latter can really blow the brick apart. Drill only to about 50-60mm deep, and if you hit any voids, opt for injectable epoxy to secure your fixings quickly! Good luck!
You should be okay to drill, but aim for the mortar joints to reduce damage to the brick. Using epoxy anchors might be a bit much, but they'll definitely hold well if you choose to use them.