Installation Instructions for Tapcon® Concrete Screws
The installation of Tapcon® Concrete Screws can be completed by following the three easy steps described below. Concrete screws can be used in a wide range of applications including electrical boxes, wood headers, plywood, furring strips and exterior insulation systems. Tapcon® concrete screws are ideal for use with medium duty fastening applications. These screws come in a variety of sizes and styles and are easy to install. After installation, Tapcon® screws can be removed without disturbing the base material.
1. With sleeve off and drill bit exposed, drill pilot hole 1/4" deeper than recommended anchor embedment. Snap proper anchor socket onto end of sleeve. Slide drive sleeve over drill bit.
2. Insert head of Tapcon® anchor into hex or Phillips socket.
3. Put point of anchor into pre-drilled hole and drive until anchor is fully seated.
Installation Steps for the Large Diameter Tapcons
Installation Steps in Concrete:
- Using the proper size carbide bit, drill hole at least 1" deeper than anchor embedment.
- Using an electric impact wrench or socket wrench, insert anchor into hole and tighten anchor until fully seated.
Installation Steps in Concrete Block (CMU) (3/8" and 1/2" diameters):
- Using the proper size carbide bit drill hole at least 1" deeper than anchor embedment.
- Using a socket wrench insert anchor into hole and hand tighten anchor until full seated.
Tapcon® Concrete Screw Installation Video
Tapcon Screw Detailed Installation Instructions
Tapcon® screws are one of the most popular concrete anchors on the market. Tapcons are designed for use in concrete, brick or block. The strength of these screws makes it possible to use them in many different applications. They require a slightly smaller hole than the diameter of the screw.
These concrete screws are available in a 3/16" diameter and a 1/4" diameter. The 3/16" diameter screw needs a 5/32" hole and the 1/4" diameter screw needs a 3/16" hole. To determine the length of the tapcon screw needed, add the thickness of the material to be fastened to a minimum of 1" and a maximum of 1-3/4". This will give you the proper length of screw needed.
When fastening to concrete, brick or block, a hole needs to be drilled into the base material. A hammer drill must be used as it will create the best quality hole. Once the bit is chucked into the hammer drill, the depth of the hole to be drilled can easily be set by using the depth gauge on the hammer drill or by simply wrapping the bit with tape at the depth that is required.
Use eye and ear protection when drilling into concrete, brick or block with a hammer drill. Also make sure that the hammer drill is in hammer mode. Once these safety concerns have been addressed, drilling can begin. Continue drilling until the tape on the bit or drill gauge meets the base material. The hole must be cleaned of all concrete dust to ensure proper fastening. Using a wire brush and a vacuum or compressed air will ensure that the hole is cleaned out properly. Place the fixture over the hole making sure that the hole in the fixture is large enough to allow the Tapcon® screw to be inserted through it. Place the concrete screw through the fixture and into the hole. You can use the drill or a wrench to turn the screw, allowing it to tap threads into the base material. Make sure the screw is not turned too fast as the base material can be stripped and the screw will just spin in the hole.