How to hang a trellis on a brick wall

Homeowners install a trellis in the garden to add visual interest to their yard, soften harsh edges and give vines a place to grow. Although the trellis itself isn't normally the focal point, a trellis allows for better display of the vines and flowers. Installing a trellis onto a brick wall isn't difficult, especially if you have the correct tools and fasteners.

Measure and mark where you want to attach the trellis on the brick wall, using a tape measure and pencil. Exact measurements will depend on the size of your trellis. Mark a line on the wall and use a level to ensure that the line is straight. You want the screws several centimetres away from each corner, and keep the trellis up off the ground a few centimetres to prevent it from rotting. If your trellis is triangular-shaped, plan for attaching the screws at the top two corners and in the lower centre of the trellis.

Drill holes in the brick wall, using a drill bit slightly smaller than the diameter of your concrete screws. This allows the screws to fit snuggly in the bricks and keeps the trellis in place better.

Cut 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inch) pieces of PVC pipe with a hacksaw. You need one piece of cut PVC pipe for each screw you drill into the brick wall. The PVC pipe acts as a spacer between the trellis and the brick wall, which allows the vines to adequately grow around the trellis and receive enough air and sunlight.

Place the spacer over where you drilled the hole, and have a friend hold the trellis in place.

Drill the concrete screw through the trellis and spacer and into the wall. Ensure that the screw is tight. Repeat for each of the other corners.

Plant your vines near the base of the trellis, and drape some of the vines on top of the trellis. Follow the directions from the nursery for exact spacing and watering requirements for your specific plants.