How to Secure Arlo Camera Outside on Brick Walls Easily

How to Secure Arlo Camera Outside on Brick Walls Easily

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Securing your Arlo camera on brick walls is simple and effective with the right mounting hardware and weatherproofing techniques. Use heavy-duty masonry screws and anchors designed for brick to ensure a stable, vibration-free installation that withstands harsh outdoor conditions. Pair this with silicone sealant around the mount to block moisture and prevent long-term damage.

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How to Secure Arlo Camera Outside on Brick Walls Easily

Key Takeaways

  • Use masonry screws: Securely mount Arlo cameras on brick with corrosion-resistant screws.
  • Anchor for stability: Always install wall anchors to prevent camera wobbling or theft.
  • Weatherproof the setup: Seal gaps and use outdoor-rated enclosures to protect wiring.
  • Optimize camera angle: Test positioning before final installation to cover blind spots.
  • Secure cables discreetly: Use conduit or clips to hide and protect wires from damage.
  • Check signal strength: Ensure strong Wi-Fi or cellular connection before mounting permanently.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest: setting up an Arlo camera on a brick wall can feel like a DIY nightmare. You want security, not a weekend spent drilling holes and cursing at stubborn mortar. Whether you’re protecting your home, checking on deliveries, or keeping an eye on the kids, how to secure Arlo camera outside on brick walls easily is about more than just installation—it’s about peace of mind.

I’ve been there. My first attempt? A crooked mount, a wobbly camera, and a neighbor who thought I was building a birdhouse. But after trial, error, and a few trips to the hardware store, I cracked the code. Brick walls aren’t the enemy—they’re just misunderstood. With the right approach, you can mount your Arlo camera securely, avoid damage, and keep it running for years.

This guide walks you through the entire process, from tools to troubleshooting. We’ll cover everything you need to know to get it right the first time—no guesswork, no frustration.

What You Need

Before you start, gather these tools and materials. Don’t worry—most are probably already in your garage or toolbox.

How to Secure Arlo Camera Outside on Brick Walls Easily

Visual guide about how to secure arlo camera outside on brick walls

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  • Arlo camera and mount (check if it’s weatherproof for outdoor use)
  • Masonry drill bit (6mm or ¼ inch works for most Arlo mounts)
  • Hammer drill (or a regular drill with a hammer setting)
  • Masonry screws and wall anchors (usually included with the mount, but double-check)
  • Level (to avoid that “leaning tower of Arlo” look)
  • Pencil (for marking drill spots)
  • Vacuum or brush (to clean dust from drilled holes)
  • Stud finder (optional, but helpful for locating mortar lines)
  • Silicone sealant (to weatherproof the screw holes)
  • Rubber grommets or rubber washers (to reduce vibration and protect the wall)

Pro tip: If you’re not sure about your Arlo model’s compatibility, check the manual. Some older models need a separate outdoor housing. But newer Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential cameras are designed for outdoor use—just make sure they’re rated IP65 or higher.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Secure Arlo Camera Outside on Brick Walls Easily

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

Not all brick walls are created equal. You want a location that gives you the best view, avoids glare, and keeps the camera safe from tampering.

  • Pick a spot with a clear line of sight to the area you want to monitor (e.g., front door, driveway).
  • Avoid direct sunlight—it can cause lens flare and overheat the camera.
  • Mount it high enough (8–10 feet) to deter tampering but low enough to get a clear face or package view.
  • Look for a spot near a power source if you’re using a wired model (like Arlo Ultra 2).

Use a ladder (safely!) to test the view. Point your phone or a temporary camera to see what the Arlo will capture. Adjust as needed before drilling.

Personal insight: I once installed a camera too close to a tree branch. Every time the wind blew, I got false motion alerts. A quick reposition saved me hours of frustration.

Step 2: Mark the Mounting Points

Hold the Arlo mount against the brick where you want it. Use a level to make sure it’s straight—this matters more than you think. A crooked mount = a crooked camera = a crooked view.

Once it’s level, use a pencil to mark the screw holes. If your mount has two holes, mark both. If it’s a single-point mount, mark the center.

Here’s a pro move: use a stud finder to locate the mortar lines. Drilling into mortar (the soft gray stuff between bricks) is easier and less likely to crack the brick. Avoid drilling into the brick itself unless you have no choice.

Warning: Drilling into brick is doable, but it’s harder and riskier. If you hit a hard brick, your drill bit can slip or break. Mortar is your friend.

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes

Now the fun part: drilling. Use a masonry bit (6mm or ¼ inch) that matches your screws. Set your drill to “hammer” mode—this helps break up the brick or mortar as you drill.

  • Start slow. Apply gentle pressure and let the drill do the work.
  • Drill to the depth of your anchor (usually about 1.5 inches).
  • Keep the drill straight. Don’t wobble—it can widen the hole and make the anchor loose.

After drilling, use a vacuum or brush to clean out the dust. A clean hole = a secure anchor.

Personal insight: I once skipped cleaning the hole. The anchor wouldn’t seat properly, and the camera wiggled in the wind. A 30-second cleanup would’ve saved me a redo.

Step 4: Insert Anchors and Screws

Push the plastic wall anchor into the hole. Tap it gently with a hammer if it’s tight. Don’t force it—you want it flush with the wall.

Now, screw in the mounting screws. Don’t tighten them all the way yet. Leave them slightly loose so you can adjust the mount position.

Attach the mount to the screws and check it’s level again. Once it’s perfect, tighten the screws fully. Use a screwdriver or drill on low torque to avoid stripping the anchor.

Tip: If the screw feels loose, try a larger anchor or add a rubber washer for extra grip.

Step 5: Attach the Arlo Camera

Most Arlo cameras use a twist-and-lock mechanism. Align the camera base with the mount and twist clockwise until it clicks.

Test the connection by gently wiggling the camera. It should feel solid. If it moves, check the screws and anchors—something’s not tight enough.

For extra security, use the Arlo security screw (if included) to lock the camera in place. This prevents someone from twisting it off.

Personal insight: I skipped the security screw once. A raccoon (yes, really) knocked it loose at night. Now I always use it—even in “safe” neighborhoods.

Step 6: Weatherproof the Mount

Brick walls can be porous. Rain, snow, and humidity can seep into the screw holes and cause damage over time. To prevent this:

  • Apply a small bead of clear silicone sealant around the base of each screw.
  • Use rubber grommets or washers under the mount to create a watertight seal.
  • Let the silicone dry for 24 hours before exposing it to rain.

This step is easy to skip, but it’s the difference between a camera that lasts 5 years and one that fails after a bad storm.

Step 7: Test and Adjust

Power on the camera and open the Arlo app. Check the live view to make sure the angle and focus are right.

Walk around the area to test motion detection. Adjust the camera’s position if needed—most mounts let you tilt and swivel.

Enable night vision and test in low light. Make sure the IR lights aren’t blocked by the mount or nearby objects.

Tip: If the camera is too high, you might miss faces. If it’s too low, you’ll get too much ground and not enough sky. Aim for eye level of an average adult.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After installing dozens of Arlo cameras (and fixing my own mistakes), here are the real-world insights that make all the difference:

  • Use a template: Trace the mount on cardboard or paper. Tape it to the wall to test the view before drilling. Saves time and avoids “oops” holes.
  • Check your Wi-Fi signal: A weak signal means laggy video. Use an Arlo range extender or move the base station closer.
  • Avoid over-tightening: Brick is strong, but too much force can crack it. Snug is good—tight is risky.
  • Label your cameras: If you have multiple Arlos, name them (e.g., “Front Door,” “Back Gate”) in the app. Makes troubleshooting easier.
  • Clean the lens: Dust, rain, and bugs can blur the view. Wipe the lens with a microfiber cloth monthly.

Warning: Don’t mount the camera where it’s exposed to direct rain or snow. Even weatherproof cameras can fail if water pools on the lens. Aim for an overhang or eave.

Common mistake: Ignoring the power source. If you’re using a solar panel, make sure it’s angled to get 4–6 hours of sun daily. A shady spot = a dead battery.

FAQs About How to Secure Arlo Camera Outside on Brick Walls Easily

Q: Can I mount an Arlo camera directly into brick without anchors?
A: Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. Brick is hard and brittle. Without anchors, the screw can loosen over time, especially in wind or vibration. Anchors distribute the weight and keep the mount secure. Trust me: it’s worth the extra 5 minutes.

Q: What if I hit a brick and not mortar?
A: No worries. Just use a longer masonry bit (8mm or 5/16 inch) and a larger anchor. Drill slowly to avoid cracking. If the brick is too hard, consider relocating the mount by an inch or two. Mortar is always easier.

Q: How do I hide the power cord?
A: For wired models, use cord clips to run the cable along the wall. You can also drill a small hole near the mount and feed the cord through (seal it with silicone afterward). For solar, hide the panel behind a downspout or gutter.

Q: Will drilling into brick damage the wall?
A: Not if you do it right. Small holes (6mm) are barely noticeable. Use a masonry bit and avoid high torque. If you’re renting or worried about resale, talk to your landlord or use adhesive mounts (though they’re less secure).

Q: Can I install the camera myself, or should I hire a pro?
A: You can absolutely do it yourself! This guide walks you through every step. But if you’re uncomfortable with ladders, drilling, or working with tools, a handyman can do it in under an hour. Just make sure they follow these steps—not all pros know Arlo-specific tricks.

Q: What’s the best height for an outdoor Arlo camera?
A: 8–10 feet is ideal. High enough to deter tampering, low enough to capture faces and packages. For driveways, go a bit higher (10–12 feet) to get a wider view.

Q: How often should I check the mount?
A: Every 3–6 months. Tighten the screws, clean the lens, and check for cracks or water damage. A quick 10-minute check can prevent big problems later.

Final Thoughts

Mounting an Arlo camera on a brick wall doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right tools, a bit of patience, and this guide, you can do it yourself—and do it well. The key to how to secure Arlo camera outside on brick walls easily is preparation: choose the right spot, use the right hardware, and weatherproof like a pro.

Remember: security isn’t just about the camera. It’s about the details—the level, the sealant, the security screw. Those small steps make the difference between a camera that works and one that fails when you need it most.

So grab your drill, take your time, and get it right. Your future self (and your home’s security) will thank you. And if you run into a snag? Don’t panic. Even the pros make mistakes. Just fix it, learn, and move on.

Now go protect what matters. Your Arlo’s got your back.

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