How long of Tapcon do I need?

The Tapcon® screw requires a minimum embedment of 1” and a maximum embedment of 1-3/4”. To determine the maximum length screw to use for any specific application, add the thickness of the material to the minimum embedment of 1” to get the minimum length screw required.

How far should a Tapcon screw go into concrete?





The minimum depth of embedment for the Tapcon screw is 1 inch, and the maximum embedment is 1-3/4 inch. The depth of the hole should be drilled to allow a minimum space at the bottom of the hole of 1/2 inch. The minimum depth of the hole equals 1 inch plus 1/2 inch or 1-1/2” inches.

How long of a concrete anchor do I need?

As a rule of thumb, the space for the nut and washer is equal to the diameter of the wedge anchor being used. For example, if a 2×4 is being fastened to concrete with a 1/2” wedge anchor then the minimum length of wedge anchor would be 1-1/2”(2×4) + 2-1/4”(minimum embedment) + 1/2”(space for nut and washer) = 4-1/4”.

What size Tapcon do I need?

The 3/16” tapcon uses a 5/32” bit, the 1/4” tapcon needs a 3/16” diameter bit, the 3/8” tapcon requires a 5/16”, the 1/2” tapcon requires a 7/16” bit, a 5/8”tapcon needs a 1/2” bit and the 3/4” tapcon requires the use of a 5/8” carbide tipped bit.

How much weight do Tapcons hold?

1,360 lbs. *A safety factor of 4:1 or 25% of ultimate pullout/shear value is generally accepted as a safe working load.

Are Tapcon screws better than anchors?





Tapcon and wedge anchors are pre-installed mechanical anchors that attach structural objects to concrete structures. However, the wedge anchor suits heavier-duty applications, vs the Tapcon anchor that typically serve lighter deployments. Another difference between them is in their fastening method.

Why do my Tapcons keep breaking?

The base material may be too abrasive or too hard for the threads of the tapcon to tap. The base material may be too soft or sandy and not allow for the tapcon threads to hold properly.

How long should masonry screws be?

Length of Screw



The length of masonry screw must be equal to the thickness of the material being fastened plus a minimum of 1” with a maximum embedment of 1-3/4”.

How close to the edge of concrete Can I drill?

4 in.



Don’t Drill too Close to Edges



To avoid these disasters, don’t drill any closer than 4 in. from the edge. If there’s no other option, turn off the hammering action on the drill. Also, avoid wedge-type anchors.

Why are Tapcon screws blue?

Tapcon+ unmatched performance in concrete, block and brick applications make them an excellent alternative to expansion anchors, plugs, lag shields and have a blue corrosion resistant coating that enables them to withstand the harshest conditions.

How much weight can concrete anchors hold?

Masonry and concrete anchor types are considered light-duty, medium-duty or heavy-duty, based on how much weight they can support. Light-duty anchors are good for wall hangings that weigh up to 50 pounds. Medium-duty anchors are good for wall hangings that weigh up to 200 pounds.

How much weight can a 3/8 concrete anchor hold?



Technical Specifications for Drop-In Anchors

Size Minimum Embedment Pull-Out (lbs.)
1/4” 1” 939
3/8” 1-9/16” 1560
1/2” 2” 3105
5/8” 2-1/2” 3323

How much can a concrete screw hold?

These concrete anchor bolts, or bolt anchors for wood, are available in several sizes and will hold up to 200 lbs. The sleeves pinch the sides of the predrilled hole and get tighter as you tighten the screw or bolt.

Are Tapcon screws strong?

Stainless Steel Tapcons are reliable, strong, and have outstanding corrosion resistance. These screws are ideal for using to attach fixtures and lumbers to all types of masonry bases, including concrete, brick, and block.

Do you need a pilot hole for Tapcon?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Hello I am Bob Carlisle president of concrete fastening systems today we'll be demonstrating how to install our concrete fasteners. The tapcon screw is designed for use in concrete brick or block.

Are Tapcons permanent?



The Tapcon SG (Storm Guard) is a modified design that is meant to be permanently attached and used to anchor metal or plywood panels to wood, block, or concrete.

Are Tapcon screws rated for outdoor use?

Original Blue Tapcon® Concrete Screw. The Tapcon® concrete screw with the Climaseal® coating gives excellent rust resistance when used for indoor applications and outdoor applications. Tapcons come in two diameters: 3/16” and 1/4”.