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Drilling a hole sounds simple — until you hit the wall and realise not all walls behave the same.
Plasterboard, timber, brick, and concrete all need different approaches. Using the wrong tool is the fastest way to blunt drill bits, crack walls, or give up halfway through.
Here’s how to choose the right tool without overthinking it.
The Short Answer
- Plasterboard or timber: A standard cordless drill
- Brick or concrete: A drill with masonry drill bits (sometimes a hammer drill)
The wall material matters more than the hole size.
Drilling Into Plasterboard (The Easiest Case)
For plasterboard (sometimes called drywall), you’ll need:
- A cordless drill
- A standard drill bit
- The correct wall plug if you’re mounting something
Tips:
- Drill slowly
- Let the bit do the work
- Stop as soon as you break through
If you’re mounting anything heavier than a picture frame, use proper wall plugs rated for the weight — or fix into a timber stud if possible.
Drilling Into Timber or Studs
This includes:
- Timber studs behind plasterboard
- Wooden battens
- Shelves or boards
You’ll still use:
- A cordless drill
- Standard drill bits
Best practice:
- Drill a small pilot hole first
- Use screws long enough to bite into the timber
- Don’t over-tighten — stripped screws are very common
Drilling Into Brick or Concrete
This is where most people get stuck.
You’ll need:
- A drill
- Masonry drill bits (this part is non-negotiable)
For small holes in brick, a normal drill can work.
For concrete or larger fixings, a hammer drill makes the job much easier.
Important:
- Regular wood or metal bits will not work on masonry
- Pushing harder doesn’t help
- Slow, steady pressure works best
a masonry drill bit set like this on Amazon is usually all you need for home jobs
Do You Need a Hammer Drill?
Not always.
You’ll want one if:
- The wall is solid concrete
- You’re drilling several holes
- The bit isn’t making progress
For occasional home use, many people borrow or hire one rather than buying.
A basic cordless drill like this one on Amazon is typical of what you’re looking for.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wood bits on masonry
- Drilling too fast
- Forcing the drill when it stalls
- Skipping wall plugs in plasterboard
Most problems come from mismatched bits, not weak drills.
Basic Safety Tips
- Wear eye protection (brick and concrete dust is nasty)
- Keep the drill straight
- Watch for hidden cables and pipes
- Stop if the drill overheats
There’s no prize for finishing fast.
Final Thought
Before you drill, ask one simple question:
What is this wall actually made of?
Answer that, and the right tool choice becomes obvious.