Installing house numbers on brick without drilling is a smart and practical solution for homeowners who want to avoid damaging their brick walls or creating permanent holes. Whether you’re renting, want to preserve the look of your brick facade, or simply want a quick and clean installation, there are plenty of effective ways to achieve this. In this guide, we’ll explore 12 proven methods to securely install house numbers on brick surfaces without the need for drilling, ensuring durability, visibility, and style.
Why Avoid Drilling Into Brick?
Drilling into brick may seem like the obvious method for mounting house numbers, but it carries some significant drawbacks. First, brick is a hard, brittle material that can crack or chip easily when drilled. This damage isn’t just unsightly; it can reduce the structural integrity of the wall. Also, once drilled, repairing brick can be costly and challenging.
Additionally, if you ever want to change or remove your house numbers, you’re left with unsightly holes and patches. For renters or historic homes, drilling might even be prohibited.
By avoiding drilling, you maintain the integrity and appearance of your brick facade, save time, and often simplify installation.
Essential Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the right tools and materials. Here’s a list to get you started:
- Heavy-duty outdoor adhesive or construction glue (e.g., Loctite, Gorilla Glue)
- Double-sided outdoor mounting tape (weatherproof rated)
- Command outdoor strips (damage-free mounting strips)
- Brick clips or brick hangers
- Backing board (wood or metal panel, if needed)
- Magnetic strips or magnets (for metal-backed bricks)
- Cleaning supplies: brush, cloth, rubbing alcohol
- Measuring tape and level (for proper alignment)
- Protective gloves
Having these items ready ensures a smooth installation and a professional finish.
Understanding Different Types of House Numbers
Choosing the right house numbers is just as important as the mounting method. Numbers come in various:
- Materials: Metal, plastic, wood, or acrylic
- Sizes: Larger numbers improve visibility from the street
- Styles: Modern, traditional, illuminated, reflective
- Durability: Weather-resistant finishes last longer outside
Select numbers that complement your home’s style and are appropriate for outdoor conditions. For example, metal numbers with powder-coated finishes resist rust and fading.
Preparing Your Brick Surface for Installation
Proper surface preparation improves adhesion and ensures your numbers stay put. Follow these steps:
- Clean the brick surface thoroughly — Remove dust, dirt, moss, and grease using a stiff brush and soapy water.
- Dry completely — Moisture reduces adhesive strength.
- Use rubbing alcohol — Wipe the area to remove any remaining oils or residues.
- Avoid porous or crumbly bricks — These surfaces don’t hold adhesives well.
With a clean and dry brick surface, your chosen method will perform at its best.
Method 1: Using Heavy-Duty Outdoor Adhesive
One of the simplest ways to install house numbers without drilling is by using a high-strength outdoor adhesive.
Step-by-step guide:
- Apply adhesive to the back of each number evenly.
- Press firmly against the brick for 30 seconds.
- Use a level to ensure numbers are straight before the adhesive sets.
- Allow 24 hours to cure fully.
Adhesive works best on clean, dry bricks and holds well even in wet conditions. Choose adhesives rated for outdoor use and compatible with brick and your number material.
Method 2: Double-Sided Mounting Tape for Brick
Double-sided tape designed for exterior use is another easy option.
- Choose tape with strong bonding and weatherproof qualities.
- Cut strips slightly smaller than your numbers.
- Press the tape to the back of the numbers, then firmly press the numbers on the brick.
- Hold in place for a minute to improve adhesion.
This method avoids mess and dries quickly, but may not be suitable for very heavy or large numbers.
Method 3: Command Strips for Exterior Use
Command strips offer a damage-free, removable option that’s surprisingly strong.
- Use Command strips specifically formulated for outdoor use.
- Attach strips to the back of each number.
- Press firmly onto the brick surface for 30 seconds.
- Wait 1 hour before releasing the numbers to ensure maximum adhesion.
These strips are great for renters or temporary installations and won’t leave residue.
Method 4: Using Brick Clips and Hangers
Brick clips or hangers are metal brackets that hook onto brick edges without drilling.
- Measure your brick’s thickness for the right clip size.
- Slide the clip onto the brick edge.
- Attach numbers to the clip using screws or adhesive.
Clips work well if your bricks have exposed edges and offer a sturdy, reusable mounting option.
Method 5: Magnetic House Numbers
If your brick wall contains metal elements or you can attach a metal plate:
- Use strong outdoor magnets attached to the back of your numbers.
- Secure a thin metal sheet onto the brick using adhesive or clips.
- Place numbers on the metal sheet via magnets.
This method allows easy removal and repositioning without damage.
Method 6: Installing on a Backing Board
For uneven bricks or when direct adhesion is difficult:
- Mount numbers on a wood or metal backing board.
- Attach the backing board to the brick with adhesive or clips.
- This creates a smooth surface and adds visual interest.
A backing board can be painted or stained to match your home’s style.
Tips for Ensuring Longevity and Weather Resistance
- Use weatherproof adhesives and tapes.
- Avoid installation in rainy or humid weather.
- Clean numbers regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
- Check adhesion annually and replace tape or glue if needed.
Weather-resistant finishes and regular maintenance ensure your numbers stay visible and secure for years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing House Numbers
- Skipping surface cleaning leads to poor adhesion.
- Using indoor adhesives not rated for outdoor use.
- Installing on damp or dirty bricks.
- Overloading tape or adhesive with heavy numbers.
- Misaligning numbers without using a level.
- Ignoring the manufacturer’s weight limits on clips or strips.
Avoid these pitfalls to achieve a neat, durable installation.
How to Remove House Numbers Without Damaging Brick
Each method requires different removal techniques:
- Adhesive: Gently heat with a hairdryer to soften the glue; peel numbers carefully.
- Tape/Command strips: Pull strips slowly at a 180-degree angle.
- Clips: Slide off clips from brick edges.
- Magnets/backing boards: Simply lift off.
Always clean residual adhesive with rubbing alcohol or adhesive remover safe for brick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It’s best to install when the brick is dry and temperatures are moderate to ensure proper adhesion.
Most adhesives are permanent but can be removed carefully with heat and solvents.
If applied and removed properly, high-quality outdoor adhesives won’t damage bricks.
Yes, but check if the paint is in good condition and clean the surface thoroughly.
Typically up to one year, depending on exposure to weather.
Using a backing board or brick clips can help provide a flat mounting surface.
Conclusion: Best Practices for Installing House Numbers Without Drilling
Installing house numbers on brick without drilling offers a practical, damage-free alternative that preserves your home’s exterior. Whether you opt for heavy-duty adhesives, outdoor tapes, Command strips, clips, magnets, or a backing board, preparing your surface well and choosing the right materials is key to a long-lasting installation. Avoid common mistakes, maintain your numbers regularly, and enjoy a clean, professional look that enhances your home’s curb appeal.
