How to Install Ring Doorbell Plus on Brick

Installing a Ring Doorbell Plus on brick requires special tools and techniques to ensure a secure, long-lasting mount. This guide walks you through every step—from drilling into brick to connecting your device—so you can enjoy reliable home security without damaging your exterior.

Key Takeaways

• Use a masonry drill bit: Regular drill bits won’t cut through brick—always use a carbide-tipped masonry bit for clean, safe holes.
• Anchor screws properly: Plastic wall anchors or sleeve anchors provide strong support in brick and prevent the doorbell from loosening over time.
• Choose the right mounting angle: The Ring Doorbell Plus works best when angled slightly downward to capture visitors and avoid glare.
• Protect wires from weather: Use silicone sealant around screw holes and wire entry points to prevent moisture damage.
• Test before finalizing: Always test the doorbell’s Wi-Fi connection and motion detection before securing everything in place.
• Consider a mounting wedge: If your brick surface is uneven, use the included wedge or purchase an adjustable mount for optimal viewing angle.
• Follow local codes: Check local regulations about drilling into historic brick or shared walls, especially in apartments or condos.

How to Install Ring Doorbell Plus on Brick: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’ve decided to upgrade your home security with the Ring Doorbell Plus—smart choice! This video doorbell offers 1080p HD video, two-way talk, motion detection, and seamless integration with the Ring app. But if your front door is framed by beautiful (and tough) brick, you might be wondering: Can I really install this without damaging my wall?

The good news? Yes, you absolutely can—and it’s easier than you think when you use the right tools and techniques. Installing a Ring Doorbell Plus on brick isn’t much different from mounting it on wood or siding, but it does require extra care to avoid cracking the brick or creating loose mounts.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of installing your Ring Doorbell Plus on a brick surface. Whether you’re a DIY beginner or a seasoned home improver, you’ll learn how to drill safely into brick, secure the mounting plate, connect the wires, and set up your device for optimal performance. We’ll also share pro tips to protect your investment and troubleshoot common issues.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a securely mounted, fully functional Ring Doorbell Plus that enhances your home’s security—and looks great doing it.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before you grab your drill, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Skipping this step can lead to frustration, damaged brick, or an unstable installation.

Here’s your checklist:

• Ring Doorbell Plus kit: Includes the doorbell, mounting plate, screws, anchors, and mounting wedge (if needed).
• Power drill: A cordless drill with adjustable torque is ideal.
• Masonry drill bit: 3/16″ or 1/4″ carbide-tipped bit designed for brick and concrete.
• Hammer drill (optional but recommended): Makes drilling into hard brick much easier and reduces the risk of cracking.
• Screwdriver: Phillips head, usually included in the Ring kit.
• Measuring tape: For accurate placement.
• Pencil or chalk: To mark drill points.
• Level: Ensures your doorbell is straight.
• Wall anchors: If not included, use plastic expansion anchors or metal sleeve anchors rated for brick.
• Silicone sealant: To waterproof screw holes and wire entry points.
• Wire strippers (if hardwiring): Only needed if connecting to existing doorbell wires.
• Safety gear: Safety glasses and dust mask—brick dust is no joke!

Pro tip: If you’re not confident using a hammer drill, consider renting one from a hardware store. They’re affordable for a day and make the job much smoother.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Picking the perfect spot for your Ring Doorbell Plus is crucial. You want a location that gives you a clear view of your doorstep, captures motion effectively, and is within range of your Wi-Fi signal.

Ideal Placement Guidelines

• Height: Mount the doorbell between 48 and 60 inches from the ground. This ensures it captures faces clearly and avoids being blocked by plants or mailboxes.
• Angle: The camera should face slightly downward—about 15 to 30 degrees—to reduce glare from the sun and improve motion detection.
• Proximity to door: Install it within 6 to 10 inches of the door frame for the best view of visitors.
• Wi-Fi signal: Use the Ring app’s signal strength tool to test connectivity before drilling. Weak signals can cause lag or disconnections.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Too high or too low: Mounting above 60 inches may miss faces; below 48 inches risks vandalism or obstruction.
• Direct sunlight: Avoid spots where the camera faces directly into the morning or afternoon sun—this causes overexposure.
• Obstructed views: Keep the lens clear of overhangs, plants, or decorative elements.
• Shared walls: In apartments or townhomes, check with your landlord or HOA before drilling into shared brick walls.

Once you’ve found the ideal spot, use a pencil to mark the center point where the mounting plate will go.

Step 2: Prepare the Mounting Surface

Brick is strong, but it’s also brittle. Preparing the surface correctly prevents cracks and ensures a clean, professional installation.

Clean the Brick

Use a stiff brush or vacuum to remove dirt, dust, and loose mortar from the area where you’ll drill. This helps the drill bit grip better and reduces the risk of slipping.

Check for Obstructions

Before drilling, use a stud finder or tap gently on the brick to check for electrical wires, plumbing, or metal lath behind the surface. If you hear a hollow sound, you’re likely safe. A solid thud might indicate a structural element.

Mark Drill Points

Hold the mounting plate against the brick at your chosen height and angle. Use a level to make sure it’s straight. Then, mark the two screw holes with a pencil.

Pro tip: If your brick surface is uneven, use the included mounting wedge to adjust the angle. Place it between the plate and the wall for a better camera view.

Step 3: Drill Into the Brick

Now comes the most intimidating part—drilling into brick. But with the right technique, it’s totally manageable.

Set Up Your Drill

Insert the masonry drill bit into your drill. If you’re using a hammer drill, switch it to “hammer” mode. This setting combines rotation with a pounding action that breaks through hard materials.

Start Drilling

• Position the drill bit on one of your pencil marks.
• Apply gentle, steady pressure—don’t force it.
• Drill slowly at first to create a pilot hole, then increase speed slightly.
• Drill to a depth of about 1.5 to 2 inches to accommodate the wall anchor.

Repeat for the Second Hole

Move to the second mark and repeat the process. Keep the drill perpendicular to the wall to ensure straight holes.

Clean the Holes

Use a vacuum or compressed air to remove brick dust from the holes. Dust can prevent anchors from expanding properly.

Safety reminder: Always wear safety glasses and a dust mask. Brick dust can irritate your eyes and lungs.

Step 4: Install Wall Anchors

Wall anchors are essential for securing screws in brick. Without them, the screws could loosen over time due to vibration or weather.

Choose the Right Anchor

The Ring kit includes plastic anchors, but for brick, we recommend upgrading to metal sleeve anchors or heavy-duty plastic ones rated for masonry.

Insert the Anchors

• Tap the anchor gently into the hole using a hammer.
• Make sure it’s flush with the brick surface.
• If it’s too tight, widen the hole slightly with the drill.

Secure the Mounting Plate

• Hold the mounting plate over the anchors.
• Insert the screws through the plate and into the anchors.
• Tighten with a screwdriver or drill on low torque—don’t over-tighten, or you could crack the brick.

Pro tip: Use a piece of tape to hold the plate in place while you screw it in. This keeps everything aligned.

Step 5: Connect the Wires (If Hardwiring)

The Ring Doorbell Plus can run on battery or be hardwired to existing doorbell wires. Hardwiring provides continuous power and eliminates battery changes.

Turn Off Power

Before touching any wires, turn off the power to your doorbell at the circuit breaker. Use a voltage tester to confirm it’s off.

Strip the Wires

If your old doorbell wires are frayed or too short, strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from the ends using wire strippers.

Connect to the Doorbell

• Loosen the terminal screws on the back of the Ring Doorbell Plus.
• Insert the wires into the terminals (polarity doesn’t matter).
• Tighten the screws to secure the connection.

Tuck Wires Neatly

Use zip ties or wire clips to secure excess wire behind the mounting plate. This prevents strain on the connections.

If you’re using battery power, skip this step and proceed to mounting the device.

Step 6: Mount the Ring Doorbell Plus

With the mounting plate secure and wires connected, it’s time to attach the doorbell.

Attach the Device

• Align the doorbell with the mounting plate.
• Slide it down until it clicks into place.
• Use the included security screw to lock it in—this prevents theft.

Check the Angle

Look through the Ring app’s live view to ensure the camera angle is correct. Adjust the mounting wedge if needed.

Step 7: Seal and Weatherproof

Brick is porous and can allow moisture to seep in. Sealing the installation protects your doorbell and prevents water damage.

Apply Silicone Sealant

• Run a thin bead of silicone around the edges of the mounting plate.
• Fill the screw holes and any gaps where wires enter the wall.
• Smooth with your finger or a tool for a clean finish.

Let the sealant dry for at least 24 hours before exposing it to rain.

Step 8: Set Up the Ring App

Now that your doorbell is physically installed, it’s time to connect it to your home network.

Download the Ring App

Available on iOS and Android, the Ring app guides you through setup.

Follow the On-Screen Instructions

• Create or log in to your Ring account.
• Tap “Set Up a Device” and select “Doorbell.”
• Scan the QR code on the back of your doorbell.
• Connect to your Wi-Fi network.
• Test the live view, motion detection, and two-way talk.

Adjust Settings

Customize motion zones, alerts, and recording preferences in the app. Enable “Pre-Roll” to capture a few seconds before motion is detected.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful installation, you might run into a few hiccups. Here’s how to fix them.

Doorbell Won’t Power On

• Check if the battery is charged (for battery models).
• Verify the wires are connected securely (for hardwired models).
• Ensure the circuit breaker is on.

Weak Wi-Fi Signal

• Move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
• Reposition the doorbell slightly if possible.
• Update your router’s firmware.

Motion Detection Not Working

• Adjust motion zones in the app.
• Clean the lens—dirt or spider webs can block sensors.
• Ensure the doorbell is angled correctly.

Water Seeping Into the Wall

• Reapply silicone sealant around the mounting plate.
• Check for cracks in the brick and repair with mortar if needed.

Doorbell Falls Off

• This usually means the anchors weren’t installed properly.
• Remove the doorbell, redrill the holes, and use heavier-duty anchors.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance

To keep your Ring Doorbell Plus working smoothly for years:

• Clean the lens monthly: Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust and smudges.
• Check screws annually: Vibration can loosen them over time.
• Update firmware: The Ring app will notify you of updates—install them promptly.
• Replace the battery: If using battery power, recharge or replace every 6–12 months.
• Inspect for damage: Look for cracks in the casing or mounting plate after storms.

Conclusion

Installing a Ring Doorbell Plus on brick might seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and a little patience, it’s a totally doable DIY project. By following this guide, you’ve learned how to choose the perfect location, drill safely into brick, secure the mount with proper anchors, connect the wiring, and weatherproof the installation.

Not only will your doorbell look sleek and professional, but it will also provide reliable security for your home. Whether you’re watching for packages, greeting visitors, or deterring intruders, your Ring Doorbell Plus will give you peace of mind—rain or shine.

Remember: take your time, prioritize safety, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional if you’re unsure about drilling into historic or load-bearing brick. With proper care, your Ring Doorbell Plus will serve you well for years to come.

Now go enjoy that extra layer of security—you’ve earned it!