How to Hang Pictures on Brick without Drilling

You have a brick wall, a framed print, and a lease that says no drilling. This guide is for renters and homeowners who want to hang pictures on brick without drilling and without damaging the masonry. We explain the methods that work, the weight limits to respect, and how to prepare the surface so your picture stays put.

We reviewed manufacturer instructions, product listings, and aggregated customer feedback to compare adhesive hooks, strips, and brick clips. The main criteria are weight capacity, surface compatibility, removal method, and how well each option handles brick texture.

Quick Picks for Hanging Pictures on Brick

• Best overall: Heavy-duty adhesive picture hanging strips for flat, painted brick with light to medium frames.
• Best value: A multi-pack of adhesive hooks that lets you arrange several small frames without buying separate hardware.
• Best for textured brick: Brick clips that grip the mortar joint and avoid adhesive altogether.

These picks are based on the methods and product types we analyzed. The right choice depends on your brick surface, the weight of your frame, and your lease terms.

Before You Buy: A Renter Checklist

• Read your lease wording on adhesives, fixtures, and wall damage before you buy anything.
• Identify your wall surface: painted brick, exposed brick, or brick with a sealed finish all behave differently.
• Plan the move-out removal step and keep the original packaging and instructions for reference.
• Match the product’s stated weight limit to the actual weight of the frame, glass, and hardware.
• Check the temperature and humidity in the room, since adhesive performance can change in damp or cold spaces.

Confirm lease terms with your landlord before installing anything. This guide is general guidance, not legal advice.

How to Hang Pictures on Brick Without Drilling: Step by Step

These steps apply to adhesive strips and hooks. For brick clips, skip to the clip-specific notes below.

1. Clean the brick. Dust and grit stop adhesive from bonding. Wipe the area with a damp cloth and let it dry fully.
2. Check the surface. Adhesive works best on smooth, painted brick. Rough or heavily textured brick may need a clip instead.
3. Mark your placement. Use a pencil and a level to mark where the top of the frame will sit.
4. Apply the strip or hook. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for pressing and waiting time before hanging.
5. Hang and check. Press the frame into place, then wait the recommended time before adding weight.
6. Remove carefully at move-out. Follow the removal instructions to avoid pulling paint or mortar.

For related methods, see our guide on how to hang shelves without drilling into walls.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Method for How To Hang Pictures On Brick Without Drilling

The best method depends on your brick surface and the weight you need to hold. Use the criteria below to compare options.

Weight Capacity

Every adhesive product has a stated weight limit. Stay under that limit and account for the frame, glass, matting, and any backing hardware. A lightweight print may be fine with a small strip, while a large framed piece needs a higher-rated product.

Manufacturers often state limits per pair or per strip. Read the packaging wording carefully and do not assume a multi-pack multiplies the limit unless the instructions say so.

Surface Compatibility

Adhesive strips bond best to smooth, clean, painted surfaces. Exposed brick with deep texture or loose mortar can reduce contact area and weaken the hold. Brick clips are designed to grip the mortar joint and may suit textured walls better.

Freshly painted brick needs time to cure before adhesive is applied. Check the paint manufacturer’s guidance and the adhesive instructions for the recommended wait time.

Removal and Damage Risk

Damage-free removal depends on following the instructions exactly. Pulling a strip too fast or at the wrong angle can lift paint or pull mortar. Keep the original instructions and removal tab accessible.

For more on clean removal, read how to remove command strips without peeling paint.

Frame Size and Shape

Small frames are easier to support with a single hook or a pair of strips. Large or heavy frames may need multiple strips spaced across the back. Check the product instructions for the recommended number of strips based on frame size.

Indoor Conditions

Humidity, temperature, and direct sunlight can affect adhesive performance. Bathrooms, kitchens, and unheated spaces may need a different approach. If the room is damp, consider a clip or a different mounting method.

Who Should Skip These Methods

Adhesive strips and hooks are not right for every brick wall. Skip them if your brick is heavily textured, crumbly, or has loose mortar, since adhesive may not bond reliably. Also skip adhesive if your lease explicitly forbids adhesives or if you need to hang an item above the product’s stated weight limit.

If you need to hang a heavy mirror or a large piece, consider a professional mounting service or a method approved by your landlord instead.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping surface prep. Dust and grit prevent a strong bond. Clean and dry the brick first.
• Overloading the strip. Stay under the stated weight limit and account for the full weight of the frame.
• Hanging too soon. Wait the recommended time after applying the strip before adding weight.
• Removing too fast. Follow the removal instructions to avoid pulling paint or mortar.

Why You Should Trust Us

We compare manufacturer specifications, product listings, and aggregated customer feedback. We do not physically handle the products. Our criteria include weight capacity, surface compatibility, removal method, and how well each option suits brick walls.

Affiliate commissions do not affect our rankings. We aim to give you clear, practical information so you can choose the right method for your wall and your lease.

Final Thoughts

For most renters with painted brick and light to medium frames, heavy-duty adhesive picture hanging strips are the best overall choice. They are easy to apply and remove when you follow the instructions. The trade-off is that they may not hold on rough or textured brick.

If you are hanging several small frames, a multi-pack of adhesive hooks offers good value. For textured brick or mortar joints, brick clips are the better fit. Each method has limits, so match the product to your wall and the weight you need to support.

For more renter-friendly ideas, see our guides on decorating apartment walls without nails and Command strips for heavy frames.

FAQs

What is the best way to hang pictures on brick without drilling in 2026?

The best method depends on your brick surface. For smooth painted brick, adhesive picture hanging strips are a common choice. For textured brick, brick clips that grip the mortar joint may work better. Always check the weight limit and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Can adhesive strips hold a heavy picture on brick?

It depends on the product’s stated weight limit. Check the packaging for the maximum weight and stay under it. For heavy frames, you may need multiple strips or a different method. Do not exceed the manufacturer’s limit.

Will adhesive strips damage brick when removed?

Adhesive strips are designed for damage-free removal when the instructions are followed. Pulling too fast or at the wrong angle can cause damage. Keep the removal tab accessible and follow the manufacturer’s removal steps.

How do I prepare brick for adhesive hooks?

Clean the brick with a damp cloth and let it dry completely. Remove dust and grit. If the brick is freshly painted, wait for the paint to cure before applying adhesive. Check the adhesive instructions for specific wait times.

What if my lease forbids adhesives?

If your lease forbids adhesives, talk to your landlord about approved methods. Brick clips may be an option, but confirm first. Always follow your lease terms and get permission before installing anything.

Sources and further reading

These pages come from the manufacturer or a public agency.

• Command brand picture hanging strips instructions
• Command brand hooks, ledges and caddies instructions
• Command brand FAQs

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