Introduction to Brick Drilling
Embarking on a project that involves masonry can often be daunting, particularly when it involves precise tasks such as drilling into brick.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, the key to successful brick drilling is understanding the right techniques and tools for the job.
This guide aims to demystify the process, providing clear and concise steps to ensure your work on a brick wall, brickwork, or even a brick fireplace retains its integrity while achieving your project goals.
The first step to any brick drilling project is to select the proper equipment.
Drilling into a brick wall at home requires a different approach compared to working with plaster and brick or when you’re looking to hang something on the surface.
The concern of how to drill into brick without cracking it is paramount; hence, choosing the correct drill bit and knowing whether to use a hammer drill or a regular drill is crucial.
For those situations where a hammer drill isn’t available, we’ll cover how to drill into brick without a hammer drill, ensuring you still get the job done efficiently.
It’s not just about making a hole; it’s about the finesse of how to drill a screw into brick or how to drill wood into brick without compromising the structure.
From the way you apply pressure to how you handle the drill speed, every aspect matters.
We’ll cover scenarios such as how to screw into a brick wall without a drill, drilling into brick mortar specifically, or even more niche tasks like how to drill house numbers into brick.
With the advice provided, you’ll be able to tackle any project, ensuring a sturdy hold for anything from frames to shelves, all while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your brick elements.
Tools and Equipment Needed for Brick Drilling
Before delving into the practicalities of brick drilling, it is essential to acquaint oneself with the tools and equipment required to carry out the task effectively. This preparatory step is vital to ensure that the process is smooth and that the integrity of the brick is not compromised during drilling.
- Drill Types:
- Hammer Drill: Primarily used for drilling into hard materials like brick and concrete. Its hammering action makes it ideal for such tasks.
- Rotary Drill: A suitable alternative when a hammer drill is not available. Although less effective, it can be used with the right techniques.
- Cordless Drill: Offers convenience and mobility, although it may lack the power required for drilling into brick unless it is specifically designed for masonry work.
- Drill Bits:
- Masonry Bit: Specifically designed to cut into brick and mortar. It is crucial to select the appropriate size for the screw or anchor.
- Carbide-Tipped Bit: Offers a durable option that can withstand the rigidity of brick materials without losing sharpness.
- Measuring and Marking Tools:
- Tape Measure: This is essential for precise measurements to ensure the holes are drilled in the correct location.
- Pencil or Marker: Used to mark the exact spots where the holes need to be drilled.
- Protective Gear:
- Safety Goggles: To protect eyes from brick dust and debris.
- Dust Mask: To prevent inhalation of fine brick dust particles.
- Ear Protection: Necessary when using loud power tools to prevent hearing damage.
- Additional Accessories:
- Anchor or Wall Plug: These are inserted into the drilled hole before the screw, ensuring a secure hold.
- Screw: Selected based on the weight and type of object being hung.
- Level: To ensure that the drilled holes are aligned and the mounted objects will be level.
In conclusion, having the right tools and equipment is the foundation of mastering the art of brick drilling. The correct drill and drill bit make the process of creating holes for screws or anchors straightforward, while the use of proper measuring tools ensures accuracy in your work.
Safety equipment is non-negotiable, as it protects you from the potential hazards associated with drilling. With this toolkit assembled, you are now prepared to proceed with the confidence that you have the necessary resources to maintain precision and safety in your brick drilling projects.

Preparing for Brick Drilling
The preparation for brick drilling is a crucial phase that sets the stage for the actual task, ensuring precision and preventing damage to the brick and the drill bit. It is a process that requires careful planning and attention to detail.
- Inspect the Drilling Area:
- Examine the brick surface for any signs of damage. Avoid drilling into cracked or loose bricks, as they may crumble or break.
- Identify the type of brick and mortar, as some may require different drilling techniques.
- Plan the Drill Points:
- Measure the area where you intend to drill using a tape measure to ensure accuracy.
- Mark the drill points with a pencil or marker, and use a level to confirm that these points align horizontally or vertically as needed.
- Choose the Correct Drill Bit:
- Select a masonry bit of the appropriate size for the holes you need to drill. This bit should match the size of the wall plug or anchor you intend to use.
- If you’re drilling into brick without a hammer drill, ensure that the masonry bit is compatible with your rotary drill.
- Set Up the Drill:
- Insert the chosen drill bit into the drill, ensuring it is securely fastened.
- If using a hammer drill, set it to the hammer setting. For other drills, adjust the settings to suit masonry drilling if available.
- Safety Precautions:
- Put on safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling brick dust, which can be harmful to your lungs.
- Use ear protection to safeguard your hearing from the noise of the drill.
- Prepare the Work Area:
- Clear the area of any obstacles that might impede your movement while drilling.
- Lay down a drop cloth or tarp to catch dust and debris for easier cleanup.
- Drill Practice:
- If you’re unfamiliar with the drill or the process, practice on a spare piece of brick or similar material to get a feel for the pressure and speed needed.
In summary, preparation for brick drilling is a multi-step process that includes inspecting the work surface, planning, and marking drill points, choosing and setting up the appropriate drill bit, implementing safety precautions, and preparing the work area.
Taking the time to prepare carefully can make the difference between a job well done and one that could potentially damage the brick or result in less than satisfactory results. Once these preparatory steps are completed, you are well-positioned to proceed with drilling into the brick with confidence and precision.
Choosing the Right Drill Bit for Brick Drilling
Selecting the appropriate drill bit is critical for effective brick drilling. The right choice ensures not only the success of your project but also the safety of your tools and the longevity of the brick structure.
- Assess the Material:
- Identify whether you are drilling into pure brick, plaster, and brick or a brick-and-mortar combination. The density and hardness of these materials can vary, which will influence your choice of drill bit.
- Masonry Bit Selection:
- Standard Masonry Bit: Ideal for general brick drilling tasks. They usually have a tip made of tungsten carbide to withstand the hardness of masonry materials.
- Carbide-Tipped Bit: A durable option that is effective for prolonged drilling sessions, as it maintains sharpness over time.
- Bit Size and Type:
- Choose a drill bit that corresponds to the size of the hole you need. If you’re planning to insert an anchor or a wall plug, the bit should match the diameter of these fixtures for a snug fit.
- For more complex tasks, like drilling into the brick to hang something substantial, use a longer and thicker bit to ensure the hole can accommodate the necessary hardware.
- Drill Bit Length:
- Consider the length of the bit if you’re drilling through a thick piece of brick or if you need to reach a certain depth within the wall.
- Compatibility with Drill:
- Ensure the bit’s shank is compatible with your drill model. Most modern drills use a standard chuck, but some may require SDS shank bits for heavy-duty drilling.
- Special Considerations:
- For jobs that require drilling without a hammer drill, choose a high-quality masonry bit designed for use with a standard rotary drill.
- When drilling into brick without cracking it, opt for a bit with a finer tip to start the hole gently and reduce pressure on the brick.
In conclusion, selecting the right drill bit for brick drilling hinges on understanding the specific requirements of your project, including the material you’re drilling into and the nature of the task at hand.
By considering factors such as the material, bit size and type, bit length, compatibility with your drill, and any special considerations relevant to your project, you can ensure that you choose a drill bit that will provide the performance and results you need.
With the correct drill bit in hand, you’ll be well on your way to executing precise and clean drilling into brick, whether it’s for a simple home project or a more complex construction task.
Techniques for Drilling into Brick Without Cracking It
Drilling into brick without causing cracks requires a steady hand and a strategic approach. Brick, while durable, can be susceptible to cracking if not handled correctly during the drilling process. The following techniques are designed to help you drill into brick successfully without damaging the material.
- Starting the Drill Hole:
- Begin with a small pilot hole. Use a small masonry drill bit to start, which will help prevent the brick from cracking.
- Apply gentle pressure and use a low speed to ease the bit into the brick, creating a guide for larger bits.
- Gradual Bit Size Increase:
- Gradually increase the drill bit size. Once the pilot hole is established, switch to larger bits incrementally until you reach the desired hole size.
- This step-by-step approach reduces the risk of exerting too much force on the brick at once, which can lead to cracks.
- Using the Correct Drill Setting:
- If using a hammer drill, ensure it’s set to the drill-only mode initially to avoid the percussive action that could potentially crack the brick.
- Once the hole is started and you’re proceeding with a larger bit, you can engage the hammer function to facilitate drilling.
- Maintaining Drill Stability:
- Keep the drill steady and at a right angle to the brick surface to ensure that the force is distributed evenly.
- Avoid wobbling or changing angles, as this can enlarge the hole irregularly and cause stress fractures.
- Drilling Technique:
- Do not apply excessive pressure. Let the drill bit do the work.
- Periodically withdraw the drill bit to remove dust and debris from the hole, which reduces friction and prevents overheating.
- Managing Drill Speed:
- Use a variable speed drill so you can control the RPMs. Starting slowly and increasing speed gradually can prevent the bit from binding and causing a crack.
- Pulse the trigger if necessary to gain better control over the drilling speed.
- Cooling the Drill Bit:
- If drilling multiple holes or one very deep hole, periodically stop to allow the bit to cool down.
- You can also dip the bit in water for quicker cooling, but make sure to dry it before resuming to prevent water from entering the drill.
In conclusion, the techniques for drilling into brick without cracking it are centered around patience and precision.
Starting with a small pilot hole, gradually increasing the bit size, using the correct drill setting, maintaining stability, refining your drilling technique, managing the drill speed, and cooling the drill bit is all part of a careful process that ensures a clean drill without damage to the brick.
By adhering to these methods, you can achieve a professional finish in your brick drilling projects, maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of the brickwork.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Drill into Brick
Drilling into brick is a task that requires precision and care to prevent damage to the bricks and ensure a safe work environment. Follow this step-by-step guide to drill into brick safely and efficiently.
- Preparation:
- Wear safety goggles, a dust mask, and ear protection to safeguard against brick dust and noise.
- Lay down a drop cloth to catch debris.
- Use a pencil and a level to mark the exact spot where you will be drilling.
- Select the Proper Drill Bit:
- Choose a masonry bit for brick drilling. The size should correspond to the size of the hole you need.
- If you’re without a hammer drill, use a high-quality masonry bit suitable for rotary drills.
- Drill Setup:
- Secure the correct drill bit in the chuck of your drill.
- If using a hammer drill, start on a non-hammer setting to create a pilot hole.
- Pilot Hole:
- Align the drill bit with the mark on the brick.
- Start the drill at a slow speed to establish a pilot hole, applying light pressure.
- Drilling the Hole:
- Once the pilot hole is established, gradually increase the speed.
- For hammer drills, you can now switch to the hammer function for more efficient drilling.
- Maintain Pressure and Speed:
- Apply steady pressure, but do not force the drill.
- Withdraw the bit occasionally to clear out dust and debris.
- Depth Check:
- Periodically check the depth of the hole to ensure you don’t drill too deep.
- Use a depth stop or a piece of tape on the drill bit as a guide.
- Finalizing the Hole:
- Once you reach the desired depth, withdraw the drill while it’s still running to help clear any remaining debris.
- If necessary, use a hand brush or a can of compressed air to remove dust from the hole.
- Installing the Anchor or Screw:
- If using an anchor, insert it into the hole. It should fit snugly without being forced.
- Thread the screw into the anchor, leaving enough of the screw exposed for whatever you’re hanging.
- Cleanup:
- Clean up all dust and debris.
- Inspect the hole and surrounding brickwork for any signs of cracks or damage.
In conclusion, drilling into brick requires the right tools, a systematic approach, and safety considerations.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that you drill safely and efficiently, achieving a secure and clean result for your brick drilling project.
Whether you’re mounting house numbers, hanging a picture, or attaching fixtures, this guide will help you to accomplish the task with confidence.
Tips for Drilling into Brick Mortar
Drilling into brick mortar can sometimes be a preferable option, especially if you’re concerned about causing damage to the bricks themselves, which are more costly to replace than the mortar. Mortar is also generally softer than brick, making it easier to drill into.
Here are some tips to ensure that you drill into brick-and-mortar safely and effectively.
- Evaluate the Mortar’s Condition:
- Inspect the mortar to make sure it is not crumbling or too old. Drilling into damaged mortar can cause it to disintegrate.
- Choose the Right Drill Bit:
- Use a masonry drill bit that is appropriate for the size of the hole you want to make. Because mortar is softer than brick, standard masonry bits should suffice.
- Drill Setup:
- If you have a hammer drill, you can use it, but be cautious with the hammer action, as mortar is softer than brick.
- For non-hammer drills, proceed as you would with brick, but you might find the drilling process quicker.
- Marking the Spot:
- Use a pencil to mark where you want to drill. A level can help ensure that the holes are aligned if you’re drilling multiple points.
- Start Drilling:
- Align the drill bit with your mark, start slowly, and increase speed as needed. The mortar will give way more easily than brick, so a gentle approach is crucial.
- There’s no need to apply excessive pressure since the softer mortar will not require as much force.
- Depth Control:
- Be mindful of the depth you need to drill. Mortar joints are not as deep as bricks, so a depth stop or tape on the drill bit can be helpful to avoid drilling too deep.
- Dust Management:
- Regularly withdraw the drill bit from the hole to clear out mortar dust. This will help prevent the drill bit from getting stuck and reduce wear on the bit.
- Final Checks:
- Once you’ve drilled to the required depth, use a brush or a burst of compressed air to clean out any residual dust from the hole.
- Ensure the hole is the correct size and depth for the fixture you’re installing.
- Inserting the Fixture:
- If using an anchor or plug, gently tap it into the hole. It should fit snugly within the mortar.
- Screw in the fixture or item you’re attaching, making sure it is secure.
- Cleanup:
- Remove all debris and clean the area thoroughly.
- Check the integrity of the mortar around the hole to ensure no additional cracking or damage occurred.
In summary, drilling into brick mortar requires less force and can be a more forgiving process than drilling directly into brick.
By evaluating the condition of the mortar, using the right tools, being mindful of the drilling depth, and cleaning up after the process, you can effectively drill into mortar and secure fixtures without damaging the surrounding bricks.
It’s a useful technique for hanging lighter items or when you want to preserve the appearance and structure of the bricks.
She was drilling into Specific Brick Surfaces: Fireplace, Plaster, etc.
Drilling into specific brick surfaces like a fireplace or a wall that combines plaster and brick requires an understanding of the unique challenges posed by these surfaces. Each surface has distinct characteristics that influence the drilling approach.
Drilling into a Brick Fireplace
- Assessing the Surface:
- Check the brick and mortar for signs of wear or damage due to heat and age. Avoid drilling into any compromised areas.
- Heat Considerations:
- Never drill into a fireplace when it’s in use or still hot. Heat can affect the integrity of the brick and the safety of the drilling process.
- Choosing Bits:
- Use masonry drill bits that can withstand higher temperatures, as bricks in a fireplace may be more brittle due to repeated heating and cooling.
- Safety Precautions:
- Wear fire-resistant gloves as an added precaution, and ensure the area is clear of flammable materials.
Drilling into Plaster and Brick
- Surface Analysis:
- Identify the areas that are plaster and which are brick. Plaster is much softer and may cover the brick partially or entirely.
- Pilot Hole:
- Start with a pilot hole through the plaster using a masonry bit appropriate for the combined material.
- Pressure and Speed:
- Apply gentle pressure to avoid cracking the plaster. Once through the plaster, you can apply more pressure to penetrate the brick.
- Dust Management:
- Expect more dust production when drilling through plaster and brick. Use dust extraction or a vacuum to manage debris.
General Tips for Drilling into Brick Surfaces
- Drill Bit Selection:
- Always opt for tungsten carbide-tipped masonry drill bits. They are designed to penetrate tough surfaces without excessive force.
- Drill Speed:
- Use a variable speed drill to start slow and increase speed gradually, minimizing the risk of cracking.
- Pressure Application:
- Maintain steady, even pressure, and let the drill bit do the work without pushing too hard.
- Cooling the Bit:
- In extensive drilling sessions, periodically withdraw the bit and cool it to prevent overheating, which can cause damage to both the bit and the surface.
- Hole Depth:
- Mark your drill bit with tape to ensure you drill to the correct depth, which is especially important when dealing with varying surface thicknesses.
- Final Inspection:
- After drilling, inspect the hole and surrounding area for any signs of damage. Clean up the debris and make sure the hole is the right size for your anchors or screws.
In conclusion, when drilling into specific brick surfaces like fireplaces or plaster-covered bricks, it’s important to consider the material’s resilience and condition.
Taking into account factors like heat exposure, surface coverage, and dust production will guide you in selecting the right tools and techniques for the job.
With these tailored approaches, you can successfully drill into a variety of brick surfaces while preserving their integrity and appearance.
Hanging Objects on Brick: How to Drill and Screw into Brick
Hanging objects on brick walls requires a careful approach to avoid damaging the brick and to ensure the object is securely mounted. Whether you’re hanging a picture frame, a television bracket, or shelving, the following guide will help you drill and screw into brick effectively.
- Selecting the Appropriate Fixings:
- Determine the weight of the object you will be hanging. Heavier items will require stronger wall plugs (also known as anchors) and screws.
- Choose the correct length and gauge of the screw for the depth of the brick and the weight of the object.
- Marking the Drill Points:
- Hold the object against the wall and use a pencil to mark where the screws will go. Use a level to ensure these marks are even.
- For multiple drill points, double-check the distance between points to match the hanging fixture.
- Drilling the Hole:
- Select a masonry drill bit that corresponds to the size of the wall plug you’ll be using.
- Drill into the brick at the marked points, keeping the drill level and applying steady pressure. Start with a lower speed and increase as you go.
- Inserting Wall Plugs:
- Once the hole is drilled, clear out any dust and debris.
- Gently tap the wall plug into the hole with a hammer until it’s flush with the brick.
- Attaching the Object:
- Line up the object’s mounting holes with the wall plugs.
- Insert the screws through the object into the plugs and tighten until secure. Do not overtighten, as this can strip the hole or crack the brick.
- Final Checks:
- Give a gentle tug on the object to ensure it is firmly attached.
- Check that the object is level once again before finalizing the installation.
- Cleanup:
- Clear away any remaining dust or debris from the drilling process.
- Store any unused screws or plugs for future projects.
In summary, drilling into brick to hang objects is a task that, while straightforward, requires attention to detail to execute properly.
By following the steps of selecting the right fixings, marking drill points accurately, carefully drilling the holes, inserting the correct wall plugs, and then attaching the object securely, you can hang items on a brick wall with confidence.
Always remember to consider the weight of the object and the integrity of the brick when choosing your materials and approach.
With these guidelines, your decorations or fixtures will be safely displayed on any brick surface.

Alternatives to Drilling into Brick
Drilling into brick isn’t always the preferred option for everyone, especially for those living in rental properties or those looking for less permanent solutions. Fortunately, there are several effective alternatives to drilling when you want to hang objects on brick surfaces.
These methods provide flexibility and prevent potential damage to brickwork.
- Adhesive Hooks and Strips:
- Pros: Easy to apply and remove without leaving marks. It is ideal for lightweight items like pictures, small mirrors, and decorative items.
- Cons: Limited by weight restrictions and may not adhere well to rough or painted brick surfaces.
- Brick Clips or Clamps:
- Pros: These clips latch onto the brick without the need for drilling or adhesives, making them great for hanging medium-weight items like framed photos and small planters.
- Cons: Compatibility with brick size is crucial; they may not fit all types of brick or mortar lines.
- Magnetic Hooks:
- Pros: If you have metal inserts in your brick walls, magnetic hooks can be a strong and easy-to-adjust solution.
- Cons: Limited to walls with metal components and may have weight limitations.
- Tension Rods:
- Pros: For openings in brick walls, such as windows in a brick facade, tension rods can be placed without any need for drilling. They’re great for hanging curtains or lightweight banners.
- Cons: Limited spaces where the rod can be tensioned between two solid points and not suitable for heavy items.
- Construction Adhesive:
- Pros: Offers a more permanent solution without drilling. It can be used to attach heavier items directly to brick.
- Cons: Difficult to remove and may damage the surface upon removal. Requires a flat area on the brick surface for a good bond.
- Suction Cups:
- Pros: Work well on smooth, glazed bricks for hanging lightweight items. Easy to apply and remove.
- Cons: It is not effective on rough, unglazed brick and has limited holding power.
- Hook and Loop Tape:
- Pros: Strong adhesive-backed hook and loop tape can be used for lightweight items and offers easy removal.
- Cons: The adhesive may not perform well on rough surfaces and could leave a residue upon removal.
When considering these alternatives, assess the weight and size of the item you wish to hang, the condition and type of brick surface, and whether the solution needs to be temporary or permanent.
Each alternative offers its own set of benefits and limitations, allowing you to choose the best method for your needs without compromising the integrity of the brickwork. This approach ensures that you can decorate your brick walls while preserving their original condition.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Brick Drilling
Drilling into brick can present a set of challenges that might hinder the progress of your project. Understanding how to troubleshoot these common issues can save time and prevent damage to both the brick and your drilling equipment.
- Drill Bit Not Penetrating:
- Cause: Blunt drill bit, incorrect bit type, or inadequate drill power.
- Solution: Ensure you’re using a sharp, carbide-tipped masonry drill bit. If the bit is dull, replace it. Also, make sure your drill is set to the hammer function if it has one and that it’s powerful enough for masonry work.
- Drill Bit Overheating:
- Cause: Continuous drilling without breaks, excessive speed, or too much pressure.
- Solution: Periodically withdraw the drill bit from the hole to let it cool down and clear out debris. Dip the bit in water if it gets too hot. Reduce the pressure and speed if necessary.
- Cracking the Brick:
- Cause: Applying too much pressure or using the hammer function too aggressively.
- Solution: Start with a pilot hole using a smaller bit and gradually increase the size. Use the drill-only function to start the hole, then switch to hammer mode if needed, applying gentle pressure.
- Dust Blockage:
- Cause: Accumulation of dust and debris in the hole.
- Solution: Withdraw the drill bit occasionally to remove the debris. Use a can of compressed air or a vacuum with a nozzle attachment to clear the hole.
- Anchor or Screw Not Holding:
- Cause: Hole too large or small, wrong anchor type, or the brick is too crumbly.
- Solution: Use a correctly sized drill bit and anchor for the screw you’re using. If the brick crumbles easily, consider using epoxy resin with the anchor for a stronger hold.
- Uneven Drilling Surface:
- Cause: Drilling at an angle or the drill slipping on the brick surface.
- Solution: Use a center punch to create a starting point that prevents the drill from slipping. Ensure the drill is held steady and perpendicular to the wall.
- Drill Stuck in the Hole:
- Cause: Bit binding in a tight or uneven hole.
- Solution: Gently reverse the drill to remove it from the hole. If resistance is felt, stop and investigate the cause to prevent breaking the bit.
- Inefficient Drilling:
- Cause: The drill is not powerful enough, or the battery is running low on cordless models.
- Solution: Use a corded drill for consistent power, especially for extended drilling sessions or tough projects. Ensure cordless drill batteries are fully charged.
In conclusion, effective troubleshooting is key to overcoming the challenges of brick drilling. By identifying the cause of any issue you encounter and applying the appropriate solution, you can ensure a smoother and more successful drilling process.
These tips not only help prevent damage to the brick and drill bits but also contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of your drilling project.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Brick Drilling
In mastering the art of drilling into brick, it’s evident that the process requires not just the right tools and techniques but also a keen understanding of the material you’re working with.
From selecting the appropriate drill bit and drill type, such as a hammer drill or a rotary drill, to applying the correct pressure and speed, every step is crucial to ensure a successful outcome without damaging the brickwork.
This guide has aimed to equip you with the knowledge to tackle projects involving brick, whether it involves hanging a simple picture frame or more complex installations like securing fixtures into a brick fireplace or drilling into plaster and brick surfaces.
Key to this process is the meticulous preparation and the careful selection of tools, which can make a significant difference in the ease and quality of the job.
Techniques such as starting with a pilot hole, gradually increasing drill bit sizes, and managing drill speed and pressure are essential in preventing common issues like cracking the brick or overheating the drill bit.
Moreover, exploring alternatives to drilling, such as adhesive hooks or brick clips, provides versatile solutions for those seeking less permanent or non-invasive methods for hanging objects on brick surfaces.
As we conclude, remember that patience and precision are your best allies in the endeavor to drill into brick effectively.
Whether you’re working on a brick wall at home, a brick-mortar joint, or a specialized surface like a brick fireplace, the principles outlined here should guide you toward achieving secure and aesthetically pleasing results.
With the right approach, even those new to DIY projects can confidently drill into brick, creating a solid foundation for whatever decorative or functional additions they wish to incorporate into their brick-bound spaces.