How To Drill Into A Lintel
How to drill into a lintel is something many people only discover the hard wayâwhen their drill suddenly grinds to a halt above a window or door. Lintels are built tough for a reason: they support the structure above the opening, whether theyâre made from concrete or steel.
The key is understanding that brute force wonât get you far – technique and patience will. With the right drill bit, a steady approach, and a few simple adjustments, the job becomes far less intimidating. In this post, Iâll walk you through exactly what to do so you can hang that curtain rail, blind, or bracket securely – without wrecking your drill or your nerves.
Understanding Lintels: Concrete vs. Steel
The first step is to identify what your lintel is made of. They generally come in three varieties, and your drilling method will depend entirely on the material.
- Concrete Lintels: Typically used above window and door openings in masonry structures, a concrete lintel is a common find in many homes. They are strong but can be drilled effectively with the right drill and bit.
- Steel Lintels: Often found in modern buildings or properties with cavity walls, standard steel lintels support heavy loads. They require a different approach to concrete.
- Stainless Steel Lintels: These are specified for their superior durability and corrosion resistance. You’ll find them in buildings over three storeys high or in any property located in an aggressive environment, such as coastal areas. They are significantly harder to drill than standard steel.
Tools You’ll Need
To ensure the drilling process goes smoothly, gather the following tools before you start:
- A Powerful Drill: A combi drill with a hammer function will work, but a more powerful SDS drill is ideal for drilling into hard surfaces like concrete.
- Masonry Bit: Specifically for drilling into concrete lintels.
- HSS Drill Bit: A good quality high-speed steel (HSS) bit is suitable for drilling into standard mild steel lintels.
- Cobalt or Carbide Drill Bits: Essential for drilling into tough stainless steel. Standard HSS bits will likely fail.
- Cutting Fluid: A must-have for drilling into any type of steel to reduce heat and friction.
- Wall Plugs: Essential for securing screws into drilled holes in concrete.
- Self-Tapping Screws: Engineered to cut their own thread and fix directly into steel.
- Safety Gear: Safety goggles, gloves, and hearing protection are non-negotiable.
How to Drill a Lintel: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Safety First!
Before you even plug in the drill, put on your safety goggles, gloves, and hearing protection. Drilling into hard materials can send sharp fragments flying and generate significant noise.
2. Mark Your Spot
Carefully measure and mark the exact spot you want to drill. Use a pencil to make a clear mark on the surface. Double-check your measurements, especially if you’re hanging something that needs to be level, like a curtain rail.
3. Start Drilling (The Right Way)
Your technique will differ depending on the lintel material.
- For Concrete: Insert a masonry bit into your drill and switch it to the hammer setting. Start drilling on a low speed to create an initial indentation, which will stop the bit from wandering. Once the hole is started, you can increase the speed and apply firm, steady pressure.
- For Steel: Switch your drill to the rotary-only setting (no hammer action). Start by drilling a smaller pilot hole to guide the larger bit. Apply a few drops of cutting fluid to the mark before you begin. Use a moderate speed and apply steady, firm pressure. Let the drill bit do the work; forcing it will only generate excess heat.
4. Insert Your Fixings
Once you’ve drilled the hole to the required depth, it’s time to add your fixings.
- In Concrete: Clear any dust from the hole and firmly push in a wall plug until it is flush with the wall. You can then drive your screw into the plug for a secure hold.
- In Steel: Wall plugs are not used for steel. You can use a self-tapping screw, which will form its own thread as you drive it into the pilot hole.
5. Check Your Work
Before hanging your item, give the screw a gentle tug to ensure it’s secure. Check that the hole is at the right angle and depth for your needs.
Tips and Tricks
- Managing Heat on Steel: Steel gets very hot when drilled, which makes it even tougher. Apply cutting fluid periodically to keep the bit and the lintel cool and make drilling easier. If you see smoke or the bit glows red, stop immediately and let it cool.
- Avoid the Edges: Don’t drill too close to the edge of the lintel. This can weaken the lintel or cause the surrounding plaster to crack and break away.
- More Fixings, More Support: If you’re hanging heavier items like thick curtains or a television bracket, increase the number of fixing points for added strength and peace of mind.
Potential Challenges
Drilling can sometimes present unexpected hurdles. Concrete is often reinforced with steel bars (rebar), and hitting one can stop your masonry bit in its tracks. If this happens, don’t try to force it. The easiest solution is to abandon the hole and drill a new one a few centimetres away.
If you’re struggling to make any progress on a steel lintel, double-check you are using the correct drill bit (cobalt or carbide for stainless steel) and technique. A lack of progress is almost always due to using the wrong bit or not using cutting fluid.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to drill into a lintel is an invaluable skill for any homeowner. While 64% of homeowners feel they lack the necessary DIY skills, simply taking the time to learn the correct process can make all the difference.
By identifying your lintel type, choosing the right tools, and prioritising safety, you can tackle this task with confidence and achieve a professional, secure finish every time.
Happy drilling!
