Save this hack for the next time you want to hang photos or set up shelves.
DIY pros have revealed the tricks they use to strengthen the fastening of screws in brick walls.
Tanner (@clikaco) shared his frustration when trying to insert a screw into the mortar wall of his home in a video that went viral.
“It's very frustrating when you're trying to drive a screw into mortar or an old brick wall and the mortar collapses and the screw won't catch,” he explained.
If you find yourself in this predicament because you don't have a wall outlet, Tanner's trick might help.
Also known as roll plugs, these are plastic items that can be inserted into holes to secure them in place before inserting screws.
The handy Instagrammer said the homemade hack saved her “the hassle of going to the store.”
When the wall collapsed and the screws could no longer hold, Tanner filled in the holes to create a more secure grip.
To do this, he cut a zip tie into small pieces and placed them in a gap in the wall.
This move meant that his screw had less space and could create a stronger hold.
Tanner demonstrated this strength by screwing a large bracket into a wall and holding on to it.
He lifted his feet off the floor and placed his entire weight on the wall bracket.
For those in a “pinch,” Tanner recommended creative and budget-friendly options.
Instagram users shared their own DIY suggestions for the same problem.
One viewer wrote: “I use an old pen that's out of ink, great trick, but always make use of what you have in your work area.”
“You could also use a matchstick. Just break off the red phosphorus part,” another follower suggested.
“Copper wire should be used instead of plastic, which decomposes over time,” said another official.
How a wall outlet works
The experts at Construction Fasteners and Tools broke down why you should use wall plugs when drilling mortar.
“When drilling holes in mortar using screw expansion plugs or other fasteners, the force of the anchor pushes against the intact brick, rather than expanding the material,” they explained.
However, I warned you not to use that item without examining the wall first.
“Deeper holes or expansion anchors can weaken the already weak brickwork,” they said.
“Anchors create excessive circular stresses in the material, which can cause cracking.”
Another Instagram user commented: “Go outside and find a twig the size of a golf tee. It works perfectly.”
Chopsticks to take home are also very useful! one follower wrote:
Next time I will recommend the golf tee! another helpful viewer said.
“This is something we professionals use, especially on doors where the hinge screws are loose.
“Insert the golf tee and add [part] Easy to cut! ”