Which anchors should we use for solid clay or cement bricks in older South African homes?

For single-layer solid clay or cement bricks we recommend expanding sleeve anchors or zinc-plated bolts for heavier rods and pelmets, as they give the best hold for substantial curtain loads.

Can we drill into mortar instead of the brick face, and why is that better?

Yes - where possible we drill in the mortar joint because mortar is easier to repair and less likely to chip or crack than the brick face, making it a safer and tidier fixing point.

How do we stop the drill bit from wandering and avoid chipped paint when starting holes?

We place masking tape over each marked hole and use the tape to steady the bit, and we always start with a steady, perpendicular drill action (preferably a hammer drill) to reduce wandering and paint flake.

How far apart should we put middle support brackets for long rods to prevent sagging?

For heavy curtains we add a middle support every 120-150 cm, while for light sheers we space supports every 180-220 cm to keep the rod straight and avoid sag.

What should we do if drilling causes a cracked brick or flaking paint?

For small chips we stop and fill with an exterior-grade masonry filler; for larger cracks we remove the anchor, repair the face, and relocate the bracket to an adjacent mortar joint or new position to ensure a secure fixing.

How to install curtain rods on brick walls safely and neatly

Practical step-by-step instructions for installing curtain rods on brick walls in South African homes - tools, anchors, layout tips and common fixes.

Published:July 10, 2026

Updated:September 8, 2026

5 min read

Photo by Nuray Yüksel on Pexels

Right anchors matter

Match anchor type to solid or hollow brick and the curtain’s weight.

Sources

South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)
House & Leisure - home improvement and decor advice
BBC - DIY: How to drill into brick and masonry

Why brick needs a different approach

Solid brick walls are durable, but they don’t take standard screw plugs the same way plasterboard does. If we treat the wall like it deserves-using the right anchors, drill bit and mounting pattern-we avoid cracked bricks, slipped brackets and sagging rods. This first section explains how to choose fastenings, the tools to prepare, and how to plan the layout so curtains hang evenly across the window opening.

Tools and materials you’ll need

Hammer drill (rotary hammer preferred) with masonry drill bits (4 mm-8 mm depending on anchor).
Masonry anchors: nylon wall plugs for lighter loads, sleeve anchors or rawlbolts for heavier rods and pelmets.
Spirit level, tape measure, pencil and masking tape.
Curtain rod kit with brackets, or separate brackets sized for your rod and curtain weight.
Safety glasses, dust mask and a small vacuum or brush for dust clean-up.

How to pick anchors for South African brickwork

We match anchor type to both the brick (solid vs hollow) and the curtain load. For single-layer solid clay or cement bricks common in older South African homes, expanding sleeve anchors or zinc-plated bolts give the best hold for heavier curtains or rods with multiple brackets. For lighter curtains and modern cavity or hollow-brick walls, use good-quality nylon plugs sized to the screw diameter. If you’re unsure which your wall is, tap it - a solid, dull sound usually means solid brick; a hollow ring suggests a cavity.

Plan before you drill

Measure and mark the bracket positions from the inside edges of the window frame. A standard, neat look places brackets 10-15 cm beyond each side of the window and 10-20 cm above the frame top, but adjust for ceiling height and curtain length. Mark a straight horizontal line across both bracket centres using a spirit level; masking tape along the chalk line helps keep pencil marks visible and reduces paint flake.

If you’re fitting a long rod, plan to add a middle support bracket every 120-150 cm for heavy curtains and every 180-220 cm for light sheers to avoid sag. Note the rod’s inner diameter and the bracket’s screw positions before drilling.

Browse curtain hardware or find suitable rods on Curtains Blinds to see compatible brackets and recommended loads. Curtains Blinds

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Step-by-step installation on brick

Follow these steps carefully. Take your time with drilling; rushing is the most common cause of errors.

1. Mark and protect

Transfer your level line to the wall and mark each bracket hole. Put masking tape over each mark - the tape helps prevent the drill bit from wandering and reduces chipped paint.

2. Drill pilot holes in the mortar where possible

If your marked position sits over mortar between bricks, prefer that spot: mortar is easier to repair and usually safer to drill than the face of a brick. If you must drill into brick faces, keep the drill steady and perpendicular; use a masonry bit the same diameter specified by your anchor's instructions.

3. Clean, fit anchors and test fit

Brush or vacuum dust from the hole, tap in the anchor to flush with the wall, and loosely screw the bracket into place. Don’t fully tighten until all brackets are in position - this lets you adjust alignment if needed.

4. Final mount and checks

Tighten all fixings evenly, mount the rod, and add the curtains. Check for level and for any movement at the brackets. For heavier curtains, re-check the middle support and use larger anchors if you notice any give.

Quick practical note: If you plan to use a pelmet or a tracked system, ensure the wall anchors you select are rated for the combined weight. Pelmets often add R200-R800 in materials and fixings depending on size; budgeting for stronger anchors is sensible.

Common problems and how we fix them

Cracked brick or flaking paint

If drilling causes a small chip, stop and fill with an exterior-grade masonry filler. For larger cracks, remove the anchor, repair the face, and move the bracket to an adjacent mortar joint or a new brick face spaced by at least one brick to avoid a weakened area.

Bracket pull-through under load

This usually means the anchor or screw was undersized. Replace with a larger sleeve anchor or a short rawlbolt that expands behind the brick. If the wall is hollow, use hollow-wall anchors or consider a toggle bolt rated for the weight.

When to call a pro

If you encounter reinforcing wire, very hard engineering bricks, or suspect there are hidden services (electrical conduit), stop drilling and consult a tradesperson. Likewise, if you need to install a heavy motorised track or a continuous pelmet, getting professional fixing advice will save time and cost in the long run.

Practical examples from South African homes

In older townhouses with single-skin plaster over brick, we often move bracket points into the mortar to reduce visible chipping. In newer sectional-title units with thin external brick veneer, we recommend checking for cavity or plasterboard behind the brick first - the anchor choice changes significantly. For small rental apartments where decorating permission is limited, use lightweight rods and nylon anchors so holes are smaller and easier to repair when you move out.

For curtain and hardware options, see our related article on home furnishings for choices and styling ideas. Choosing durable, low-maintenance home decor and soft furnishings for South African homes and check Curtains Blinds for products that match the rod style you prefer. Curtains Blinds

If you’d like, we can tailor a shopping list of rods, brackets and anchors based on your window measurements - or you can explore curtain hardware in our Curtains Blinds category to find compatible fittings quickly. Curtains Blinds

Last updated: September 8, 2026

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How to install curtain rods on brick walls safely and neatly

Right anchors matter

Sources

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

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Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Measure and support

Drill carefully

Why brick needs a different approach

Tools and materials you’ll need

How to pick anchors for South African brickwork

Plan before you drill

Step-by-step installation on brick

1. Mark and protect

2. Drill pilot holes in the mortar where possible

3. Clean, fit anchors and test fit

4. Final mount and checks

Common problems and how we fix them

Cracked brick or flaking paint

Bracket pull-through under load

When to call a pro

Practical examples from South African homes

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