What you need to know before drilling a hole in your house wall

When it comes to hanging pictures, shelves, or installing new items in the house, drilling the wall seems like a simple task. However, a poorly planned hole can cause serious damage, such as puncturing a water pipe, hitting electrical wiring, or compromising the structure of a wall. Keeping that in mind, we prepared a guide to ensure you carry out this process safely and accurately. By following each step in order, you will avoid headaches and ensure a professional finish for your decor.

1. Identify the type of wall

The first step before drilling is to know what material the wall is made of. The most common types are masonry (ceramic or concrete bricks), drywall (plaster), or cellular concrete blocks. To find out, lightly knock on the surface: hollow walls are usually drywall, while a more solid sound indicates masonry. This information is crucial because each type requires specific nails, drills, plugs, and screws. Using the wrong accessory can result in loose holes, falling objects, or even cracks in the wall.

2. Locate pipes and wiring

Before turning on the drill, it is essential to check for any pipes or conduits behind the chosen spot. There are metal and wiring detectors (scanners) that help locate these installations, but if you don't have one, consult the hydraulic and electrical plans of the property, if available. It is also a good practice to avoid drilling near outlets, switches, or faucets, as conduits typically pass through these areas. This care can prevent leaks, electrical shocks, and costly repairs.

3. Mark the drilling point accurately

After ensuring the area is free of pipes and wiring, mark the exact drilling point with a pencil or masking tape. Use a level or ruler to align multiple holes, especially in the case of shelves or brackets that need to be straight.

This simple step ensures a more aesthetically pleasing result and prevents the object from being crooked. It also helps save time since you won't need to redo the hole.

4. Choose the correct drill bit, plug, and screw

Each type of wall and object requires the appropriate set of drill bit, plug, and screw. For masonry walls, use concrete drill bits and nylon plugs compatible with the diameter of the hole. For drywall, prefer specific plugs, like butterfly or toggle types. Heavy objects like cabinets or TVs require metal plugs and reinforced screws. Investing in the right pieces prevents the holes from widening and ensures the safety of what will be hung.

5. Use protective equipment

Drilling a wall creates dust and small fragments that can hit your eyes and respiratory passages. Therefore, wear some safety items such as goggles, a mask, and, if possible, gloves. It is also recommended to protect the floor with newspaper or a tarp to make cleaning easier afterwards. If you are working at height, use a stable ladder and never lean on makeshift furniture. Safety should come before any rush.

6. Drill carefully and finish properly

When you start drilling, keep the drill steady and perpendicular to the wall. Start at low speed until the bit penetrates a few millimeters, then increase the speed. Don't force the machine; let the bit do the work. After drilling, remove the dust with a vacuum or brush before inserting the plug. When finishing, screw the object carefully to avoid damaging the material. This finish ensures that the item is well secured and safe.