Wire Brushes
Wire brushes for drills are perfect for rust removal, paint stripping and surface cleaning. With twist knot, cup and wheel styles available, these accessories make metal prep fast and efficient on site.
Who Uses Wire Brushes?
Ideal for prep work, cleaning and finishing in construction and maintenance trades:
- Fabricators – Remove rust or paint from metalwork before welding or coating.
- Painters & Decorators – Strip surfaces clean before recoating metal fences or railings.
- Engineers – Clean parts, flanges and machine beds during service jobs.
- General Builders – Prep structural fixings and brackets for bonding or painting.
Wire Brushes Are Ideal for Jobs Like:
- Rust removal from steel, iron or aluminium
- Paint stripping on handrails, gates and surfaces
- Cleaning welds and preparing joins
- Removing corrosion or scale from metal fittings
- Surface finishing prior to coating or bonding
How to Choose the Right Wire Brush
Wire brushes come in various shapes, sizes and wire types. Here's what to check:
1. Brush Shape
Cup brushes are great for large flat areas, while wheels clean edges or narrow spaces. End brushes are ideal for inside pipes or corners.
2. Wire Type
Twist knot wires offer aggressive cleaning, ideal for rust. Crimped wires are softer, better for delicate prep and finishes.
3. Shank Compatibility
Make sure your brush has a 6mm or 1/4" shank to fit standard drill chucks. Check max RPM for safe operation.
Accessories That Help With Surface Prep
Pair your brush with the right tools and safety gear for the job:
1. Dust Masks
Protect your lungs when working with rust, scale or paint removal.
2. Safety Glasses
Flying debris is common – always wear rated eye protection during use.
3. Drill Speed Controllers
Maintain low RPMs for control and safety when working with aggressive brushes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can wire brushes remove rust?
Yes – twist knot or heavy-duty crimped brushes can remove surface rust effectively when used with a drill or grinder.
Are wire brushes safe on stainless steel?
Use stainless wire brushes to avoid contaminating stainless steel. Carbon steel brushes can lead to corrosion if mixed.
What speed should I use my drill at?
Medium to low speeds work best. High RPMs can overheat the wire or cause premature wear. Always follow manufacturer RPM limits.
Can I use these with an impact driver?
Not recommended – impact drivers deliver percussive force which can damage brush integrity. Stick to drill drivers or grinders.
Do they come in sets?
Yes – many kits include a mix of cup, wheel and end brushes to suit different surfaces and shapes.
