Fasteners and Hardware — FAQ
What's the difference between concrete screws and plastic anchors?
Concrete screws thread directly into masonry, providing higher load capacity and faster installation. Plastic anchors require a separate screw and expand against the hole—they're cheaper but weaker, best for loads under 25 pounds.
Do I absolutely need a hammer drill for concrete screws?
Yes. Standard drills lack the percussion action needed to pulverize concrete. For anything harder than old mortar, a hammer drill with carbide-tipped masonry bits is mandatory—expect 5-10x longer drilling time without it.
What size drill bit do I use for a 3/16" concrete screw?
Use a 5/32" carbide-tipped masonry bit. This creates the precise hole diameter for optimal thread engagement. A 1/64" variance can reduce pull-out strength by 20-30%, so measure bits with calipers before drilling critical anchors.
Can these screws be used in cinder block?
Yes, but with caveats. Hollow cinder block requires longer fasteners (minimum 2-1/2") to span both faces. For single-face mounting into block webs, reduce load ratings by 50% compared to solid concrete embedment.
How deep should I drill for a 2" concrete screw?
Drill 1/4" deeper than the screw length—so 2-1/4" depth for a 2" screw. This extra depth accommodates drilling dust that can't be fully removed. Always use a depth stop on your drill to prevent blowing through the backside of walls.
Are concrete screws removable and reusable?
Removable yes, reusable no. You can back them out with a drill, but the threads deform masonry during installation. Re-driving into the same hole reduces holding power by 60-70%. Always drill new holes for critical loads.
