One cannot use the same methods to anchor something to concrete that you would for wood or roofing tiles. You certainly don't want to be hammering nails into concrete! This begs the question, what should you use? You have two main options, a concrete fastener or a concrete anchor.

Help Selecting the Right Concrete Fastener or Anchor

Fastening in concrete may seem intimidating, but with the right tools and the right fasteners, it’s actually an easy job. Choosing the right fastener will depend on the amount of weight you’re fastening as well as the type of concrete you’re fastening into, meaning either porous or solid. 

For the most part, an anchor is acceptable for light-duty work. This includes putting a plastic anchor into a concrete wall and drywall, similar to what you would find in Florida homes built for hurricane codes. A concrete fastener, on the other hand, is better for medium- or heavy-duty projects. 

One we encourage you to pay special attention to are concrete screws. These special screws have a serrated cutting thread that starts small at the tip and then gets bigger towards the head. These screws actually cut into concrete as you drill them in. The threads sit in the pre-cut grooves that the tip end cuts. The advantage of choosing these concrete screws over another fastener option is that they’re removable. For a heavier-duty concrete project, you may want to pair the concrete screws with a chemical adhesive, like epoxy. 

What if you don't want the fastener to be removable, though? In this case, you're looking for wedge anchors. These are a permanent, heavy-duty fastener designed specifically for concrete. They can only be used in solid concrete and they’re also permanent. Don’t try to take them out once they're in place!

Another option to consider is a powder-actuated fastener. These are commonly used to fasten base plates to a concrete slab. You wouldn’t solely use this fastener to build a frame on a foundation. That being said, they're great to have around the job site, especially for interior walls and remodels. 

Don't Go into Your Project Unsure

If you still have questions, know that Fastener USA is here to help! Before starting any type of project, it is important to understand the factors that need to be considered when comparing the different types and styles of concrete fasteners. Each unique application will demand fasteners with specific features, uses, capabilities, and functions. Choosing the right product is an essential part of a successful concrete fastening job. That is why we make it easy to contact us and speak to an expert. Take the guesswork out of your next concrete project!