Mounting a Blink doorbell on brick requires the right tools and techniques to ensure a secure, long-lasting installation. This guide walks you through every step—from choosing the right drill bits to aligning the mount—so your smart doorbell stays firmly in place and functions perfectly.
Key Takeaways
- Use a hammer drill and masonry bits: Regular drills won’t cut through brick; a hammer drill with carbide-tipped masonry bits is essential for clean, safe holes.
- Anchor screws properly: Plastic wall anchors or sleeve anchors provide strong support in brick, preventing the doorbell from loosening over time.
- Choose the right mounting location: Pick a spot near your door, out of direct rain, and within Wi-Fi range for optimal performance.
- Follow Blink’s angle guidelines: The doorbell should be tilted slightly downward (5–15 degrees) to capture visitors clearly and avoid glare.
- Test before final tightening: Always check the doorbell’s view and connectivity before securing the mount completely.
- Seal holes to prevent moisture: Use outdoor-rated silicone caulk around screw holes to protect against water damage.
- Consider a mounting bracket adapter: If your brick is uneven, a universal mounting plate can help level the doorbell.
How to Mount Blink Doorbell on Brick: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Installing a Blink doorbell on a brick wall might seem intimidating at first—after all, brick is tough, uneven, and unforgiving compared to wood or siding. But with the right tools, a bit of patience, and this detailed guide, you can mount your Blink doorbell securely and professionally in under an hour. Whether you’re upgrading your home security or replacing an old doorbell, this tutorial will walk you through every step, from planning your installation to testing the final setup.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to safely drill into brick, choose the best mounting hardware, align your doorbell for optimal video quality, and avoid common pitfalls. We’ll also cover troubleshooting tips and maintenance advice to keep your Blink doorbell working flawlessly for years. No prior experience? No problem. We’ve broken everything down into simple, easy-to-follow steps.
Let’s get started!
Why Mounting on Brick Is Different
Visual guide about How to Mount Blink Doorbell on Brick
Image source: doorbellmount.com
Brick is a dense, hard material that requires special tools and techniques. Unlike wood or drywall, brick doesn’t allow for easy drilling or screwing. If you try to use a regular drill or standard screws, you’ll likely end up with cracked bricks, loose mounts, or a wobbly doorbell that eventually falls off.
Additionally, brick walls are often uneven, which can make it tricky to get a level mount. Moisture is another concern—brick is porous and can absorb water, so sealing your installation is crucial to prevent rust, mold, or electrical issues.
But don’t worry. With the right approach, mounting your Blink doorbell on brick is not only possible—it’s durable and reliable. The key is preparation, the correct tools, and attention to detail.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything ready will save time and prevent frustration mid-installation.
Essential Tools
- Hammer drill: A standard drill won’t work on brick. A hammer drill combines rotation with a pounding action to break through hard surfaces.
- Masonry drill bits (5/32″ or 3/16″): Carbide-tipped bits designed for brick and concrete. Match the bit size to your wall anchors.
- Screwdriver or drill driver: For tightening screws once the holes are drilled.
- Level: A small bubble level ensures your doorbell is straight.
- Pencil or marker: For marking drill points.
- Tape measure: To measure height and alignment.
- Safety gear: Safety glasses and a dust mask are essential when drilling into brick.
Mounting Hardware
- Wall anchors: Plastic expansion anchors or metal sleeve anchors (also called wedge anchors) work best in brick.
- Stainless steel screws: Use corrosion-resistant screws (typically #6 or #8 size) that match your anchors.
- Blink mounting plate: Comes with your Blink doorbell kit. Some models include a wedge mount for angled installation.
- Optional: Universal mounting bracket: Helpful if your brick surface is uneven or you need extra adjustability.
Additional Supplies
- Outdoor silicone caulk: To seal screw holes and prevent water intrusion.
- Vacuum or brush: To clean up brick dust after drilling.
- Cloth or rag: For wiping down the area before installation.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Picking the perfect spot for your Blink doorbell is critical. A poor location can lead to blind spots, Wi-Fi dropouts, or damage from weather.
Ideal Placement Guidelines
- Height: Mount the doorbell between 48 and 60 inches from the ground. This ensures it captures faces clearly without being too high or too low.
- Proximity to the door: Install it within 6–10 feet of your front door. This gives a clear view of visitors approaching.
- Wi-Fi signal strength: Check your smartphone or tablet near the intended spot. If the signal is weak, consider using a Wi-Fi extender or relocating the doorbell slightly.
- Protection from elements: Avoid areas directly exposed to rain, snow, or harsh sunlight. A slight overhang or awning helps protect the device.
- Angle and view: The doorbell should face the walkway or driveway. Avoid pointing it at bright lights, windows, or reflective surfaces that cause glare.
Test the View First
Before drilling, hold the Blink doorbell (or its mounting plate) in place and use the Blink app to preview the camera view. Walk up to the door as a visitor would and check if the camera captures your face clearly. Adjust the position if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Mounting Surface
Brick can be dusty, dirty, or covered in paint or sealant. Preparing the surface ensures a clean, stable mount.
Clean the Area
Use a stiff brush or cloth to remove dirt, cobwebs, or loose mortar from the brick. If there’s old paint or sealant, gently scrape it away with a putty knife. A clean surface helps the mounting plate sit flush and improves adhesion if you use caulk later.
Check for Obstructions
Look behind the brick (if possible) for electrical wires, plumbing, or structural elements. While rare in exterior walls, it’s better to be safe. Use a stud finder with a deep-scan mode or consult building plans if available.
Mark the Mounting Holes
Hold the Blink mounting plate against the brick where you want to install it. Use a pencil to mark the center of each screw hole. Double-check the alignment with a level—this is crucial for a professional look.
Tip: If your brick is uneven, use a small piece of cardboard or a shim behind the plate to help it sit flat.
Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes in the Brick
Now it’s time to drill. This step requires care to avoid cracking the brick or damaging the drill bit.
Set Up Your Drill
Insert the correct masonry bit into your hammer drill. Make sure it’s securely tightened. Set the drill to “hammer” mode—this activates the pounding action needed for brick.
Drill Slowly and Steadily
Position the drill bit on one of your pencil marks. Start drilling at a slow speed to create a guide hole. Once the bit bites into the brick, you can increase speed slightly—but don’t force it. Let the hammer drill do the work.
Apply gentle, consistent pressure. If the drill starts to wander, stop and reposition. Drill to a depth slightly longer than your wall anchor (usually 1.5 to 2 inches).
Clean Out the Hole
After drilling, remove the bit and blow or vacuum out the dust. Brick dust is fine and abrasive—cleaning it out ensures the anchor fits properly.
Repeat for the second hole. Use your level again to confirm both holes are aligned.
Step 4: Insert Wall Anchors
Wall anchors provide the grip needed to hold screws in brick. Without them, screws would loosen over time.
Choose the Right Anchor
For brick, plastic expansion anchors or metal sleeve anchors work best. Plastic anchors are affordable and effective for light loads like a doorbell. Metal anchors are stronger and better for heavier devices or high-wind areas.
Insert the Anchor
Tap the anchor gently into the hole using a hammer until it’s flush with the brick surface. Don’t overdrive it—this can crack the brick or deform the anchor.
If the hole is too tight, use a slightly smaller bit to widen it slightly. If it’s too loose, try a larger anchor or fill the hole with epoxy (see troubleshooting section).
Step 5: Attach the Mounting Plate
With the anchors in place, it’s time to secure the Blink mounting plate.
Align the Plate
Hold the mounting plate over the anchors. Insert the screws through the plate and into the anchors. Start by hand-tightening one screw to hold the plate in place.
Check Level and Angle
Use your level to ensure the plate is straight. If your Blink model includes a wedge mount (for angled installation), attach it now. The doorbell should tilt slightly downward—between 5 and 15 degrees—to capture visitors’ faces and avoid sky glare.
Tighten the Screws
Once the plate is level and aligned, fully tighten both screws with a screwdriver or drill driver. Don’t overtighten—this can strip the anchor or crack the brick.
Step 6: Install the Blink Doorbell
Now that the mount is secure, attach the doorbell.
Attach the Doorbell to the Plate
Slide the Blink doorbell onto the mounting plate. Most models click into place with a secure snap. You should hear a firm click when it’s properly seated.
Secure with Anti-Theft Screw (Optional)
Some Blink models include a small security screw to prevent theft. If yours has one, use the provided Allen wrench to tighten it. This makes it harder for someone to remove the doorbell without tools.
Step 7: Seal and Protect the Installation
Brick is porous and can allow moisture to seep in. Sealing your installation prevents water damage and extends the life of your doorbell.
Apply Silicone Caulk
Use a tube of outdoor-rated silicone caulk to fill the gaps around the screw heads and between the mounting plate and brick. Smooth it with your finger or a caulk tool for a clean finish.
This step also helps keep insects out and improves the overall appearance.
Let It Cure
Allow the caulk to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions—usually 24 hours. Avoid touching or adjusting the doorbell during this time.
Step 8: Test the Doorbell
Before calling the job done, test everything to ensure it works properly.
Check the Camera View
Open the Blink app on your phone and view the live feed. Walk up to the door and check if your face is clearly visible. Adjust the angle slightly if needed (some mounts allow minor adjustments).
Test Motion Detection
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion alerts. Make sure you receive notifications on your phone.
Verify Wi-Fi Connection
Check the signal strength in the app. If it’s weak, consider moving your router, using a Wi-Fi extender, or adjusting the doorbell’s position slightly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix the most common ones.
The Mount Is Loose or Wobbly
This usually means the anchors aren’t gripping properly. Remove the screws and anchors, then drill new holes slightly offset from the original ones. Use larger anchors or epoxy-based masonry anchors for extra hold.
The Doorbell Won’t Stay Level
If the brick is uneven, use a universal mounting bracket or add thin shims (plastic or rubber) behind the plate to level it. Avoid using too many shims—this can weaken the mount.
Water Is Seeping Into the Hole
Reapply silicone caulk and ensure it covers all gaps. For severe moisture issues, consider installing a small drip edge or awning above the doorbell.
The Camera View Is Blurry or Glared
Adjust the angle using the wedge mount. Avoid pointing the camera directly at the sun or bright lights. Clean the lens with a microfiber cloth if needed.
Weak Wi-Fi Signal
Move your router closer, use a Wi-Fi extender, or switch to a 2.4 GHz network (Blink doorbells don’t support 5 GHz). Avoid placing the doorbell behind metal doors or thick walls.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance
To keep your Blink doorbell in top shape, follow these simple maintenance steps:
- Clean the lens monthly: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust, dirt, or fingerprints.
- Check screws and mounts: Every few months, inspect the mounting hardware for looseness or corrosion.
- Update firmware: Keep your Blink app and doorbell firmware up to date for security and performance improvements.
- Replace batteries: Most Blink doorbells use AA lithium batteries. Replace them once a year or when the app alerts you.
- Inspect caulk: Reapply silicone caulk if it cracks or pulls away from the brick.
Conclusion
Mounting a Blink doorbell on brick doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools—especially a hammer drill and masonry bits—and a careful approach, you can achieve a secure, professional installation that enhances your home’s security and curb appeal.
Remember to choose a strategic location, drill carefully, use proper anchors, and seal your work to protect against the elements. Take your time, follow each step, and don’t hesitate to test and adjust as needed.
Once installed, your Blink doorbell will provide reliable motion detection, clear video footage, and peace of mind—all while withstanding the challenges of a brick exterior. Whether you’re a DIY beginner or a seasoned home improver, this guide equips you with everything you need to succeed.
Now go ahead—mount that doorbell and enjoy smarter, safer home monitoring!