Best Concrete Anchor Types

Concrete is a fantastic building material, offering incredible strength and durability. But when it comes to attaching objects to concrete, standard screws and nails won't do. That's where concrete anchors come in. These specialized fasteners provide a secure hold for a variety of applications, from hanging cabinets to securing heavy machinery.

What are the best concrete anchors? Let’s explore the different types and strengths of top anchors and learn how to choose the right one for your project.

How Strong Are Concrete Anchors?

The strength of a concrete anchor depends on several factors:

• Anchor type: Different anchors have varying holding capacities. While wedge anchors are incredibly strong, plastic anchors are best suited for lightweight applications.

• Anchor size: Generally, larger anchors can hold more weight than smaller ones.

• Concrete strength: The strength of the concrete itself plays a crucial role. Anchors are rated for specific concrete strengths, so ensure you match the anchor to your concrete base.

• Embedment depth: The deeper an anchor is embedded in concrete, the stronger its hold.

Best Types of Concrete Anchors

Now, let's explore the most common types of concrete anchors:

Machine screw anchor

A simple and versatile option, machine screw anchors consist of a threaded metal body that expands when tightened with a screw. They are suitable for light-duty applications like securing cabinets, shelves, or electrical and light plumbing fixtures.

• Pros: They are easy to install, affordable, and readily available.

• Cons: They have limited weight capacity and aren’t suitable for outdoor use or in damp environments (due to potential rust). They also require precise hole size for proper expansion.

Lag shield

Lag shields, also known as lead shields, are another popular choice for light to medium-duty jobs. These metal sleeves feature internal threads and an expandable exterior. They work with lag screws, providing a strong hold in concrete, masonry, and brick.

Lag shields are suitable for light to medium-duty anchoring in concrete, masonry, and brick. Common uses include securing cabinets, shelves, grab bars, and furniture.

• Pros: They are relatively strong for their size and easy to install with readily available tools. They allow for disassembly by removing the lag screw (useful for temporary installations).

• Cons: They’re not ideal for heavy loads and may loosen over time due to vibrations. They also require a separate lag screw for functionality.

Strike anchor

Strike anchors are a variation of lag shields but offer a more secure hold. They feature a driving pin that expands the anchor body when hammered in, creating a tight fit within the concrete. Strike anchors are ideal for projects requiring vibration resistance.

It’s best to use them for light to medium-duty anchoring applications, such as securing beams, railings, or HVAC equipment.

• Pros: They are stronger and more vibration-resistant than lag shields, and are easy to install. They also provide a more positive expansion compared to lag shields.

• Cons: They have limited weight capacity compared to heavy-duty anchors and may damage surrounding concrete if hammered incorrectly.

Plastic anchor

Plastic anchors are the least robust option. They expand as you drive a screw into them, wedging themselves into the concrete. These anchors are best suited for very light-duty applications, like hanging pictures and small mirrors or securing light cables/wires to concrete. 

• Pros: They are incredibly cheap, easy to use, and require no special tools. Some plastic anchors come with pre-drilled heads for easier screw driving.

• Cons: They have very low weight capacity and aren’t suitable for outdoor use or in areas with temperature fluctuations (plastic can become brittle). They may also not provide a secure enough hold in cracked concrete.

Wedge anchor

Wedge anchors are considered one of the best concrete screws due to their exceptional strength. They consist of a threaded bolt with a wedge-shaped mechanism. As you tighten the nut, the wedge expands the anchor body, creating immense holding power. 

Learn more about how to install a wedge anchor for optimal performance. 

Wedge anchors are ideal for heavy-duty anchoring in concrete - they are suitable for securing beams, structural elements, machinery, railings, or safety equipment.

• Pros: They are extremely strong and reliable, as well as suitable for high-load applications. They are also versatile as they can be used with different bolt diameters.

• Cons: They require a setting tool for installation and are typically more expensive than other options. Also, the setting process can be more time-consuming compared to some anchors.

Sleeve anchor

Sleeve anchors function similarly to wedge anchors but offer more versatility. They consist of a hollow sleeve with a separate expansion wedge and threaded bolt. This allows for using different bolt diameters with the same sleeve anchor. 

Sleeve anchors are available in various strengths for light to heavy-duty applications. They are suitable for securing beams, railings, shelving units, window frames, or concrete furniture.

• Pros: They offer more adjustability than wedge anchors - different bolt diameters can be used with the same sleeve. They are available in various strengths and allow for disassembly by removing the bolt (useful for repairs or modifications).

• Cons: They require a setting tool for installation and can be more complex to install compared to some anchors. Selecting the proper sleeve size for the bolt diameter is crucial for optimal performance.

Drop-in anchor

Drop-in anchors are ideal for pre-drilled, uncracked concrete. They consist of a threaded expander bolt and a wedge mechanism. The anchor is inserted into the hole, and the wedge is driven down with a setting tool, expanding the anchor and creating a secure hold.

They are ideal for anchoring into concrete slabs or walls, and suitable for securing beams, cable trays, pipes, or machinery.

• Pros: They are relatively easy to install compared to some heavy-duty anchors. They work well in uncracked concrete and allow for pre-installation of the anchor into the object being secured before attaching it to the concrete.

• Cons: They may not be suitable for cracked concrete or applications requiring high vibration resistance. A setting tool might be required depending on the specific drop-in anchor type.

Threaded rod anchor

Threaded rod anchors are ideal for anchoring large objects or when through-bolting is required. They consist of a long, threaded rod with a mechanical or adhesive expansion mechanism at one end. 

These anchors are typically installed with a setting tool and are suitable for heavy-duty applications, such as securing beams, columns, structural supports, heavy machinery, or other large objects to concrete.

• Pros: They are extremely strong and suitable for high-load applications. They allow for through-bolting which can provide superior holding power. Some mechanical expansion anchors are reusable.

• Cons: Typically the most expensive anchoring option. They require careful planning and precise hole placement due to the through-bolting nature. Installation can be complex and time-consuming. 

Split drive

Split drive anchors are a relatively new type of anchor gaining popularity. They are installed by hammering a fluted pin into a pre-drilled hole. The pin splits and expands, creating a secure hold in concrete, brick, or masonry. 

Split drives are suitable for light to medium-duty applications in concrete, brick, or masonry. Common uses include securing cabinets, shelves, electrical fixtures, or cladding materials.

• Pros: They are very fast and easy to install and require minimal drilling debris cleanup. They work well in hollow-core concrete applications.

• Cons: They have limited weight capacity compared to other metal anchors. They aren’t suitable for outdoor use or in damp environments due to potential corrosion of the pin. Also, they may not be ideal for applications requiring high vibration resistance.

Concrete screws

Concrete screws are a convenient option for anchoring directly into concrete. They feature an aggressive thread design that cuts into the concrete as you screw them in. They are suitable for light to medium-duty applications in concrete and offer the advantage of fast and easy installation.

Concrete screws are commonly used to secure cabinets, shelves, electrical fixtures, or concrete furniture.

• Pros: They are very fast and easy to install and require minimal prep work. Some concrete screws come with pre-drilling tips for easier installation.

• Cons: They have limited weight capacity compared to other metal anchors and aren’t suitable for heavy-duty applications. They often require high-quality concrete for optimal performance - they may not work well in weak or crumbly concrete.

Which Concrete Anchor Is Right for Your Job?

Choosing the right concrete anchor for your project depends on several factors:

Weight load - Consider the weight of the object you are anchoring. Choose an anchor with a holding capacity exceeding the anticipated load.

Material - Some anchors are better suited for specific materials like concrete, brick, or masonry.

Application - Think about the application's demands. Will the anchor be exposed to vibration, moisture, or chemicals? Choose an anchor material and type that can withstand these conditions.

Installation method - Consider your comfort level and available tools. Some anchors require setting tools, while others are installed with a hammer or screw.

Here's a quick guide to choosing the right anchor:

• Light-duty (under 100 lbs): Plastic anchors, machine screw anchors, lag shields.
• Medium-duty (100-500 lbs): Strike anchors, sleeve anchors (light-duty versions), concrete screws.
• Heavy-duty (500 lbs and above): Wedge anchors, sleeve anchors (heavy-duty versions), threaded rod anchors.

Additional tips:

• Always consult the manufacturer's specifications for the specific anchor you choose. This will provide detailed information on load capacity, recommended drill bit size, and embedment depth.

• Use high-quality anchors from reputable manufacturers. 

• When in doubt, choose a stronger anchor than you think you might need. When it comes to unmatched holding power and versatility, wedge anchors reign supreme. At Fastenere, you can find top-quality wedge anchors without sacrificing convenience. We offer a wide selection of high-performance wedge anchors guaranteed to deliver the strength and reliability for your project demands. Learn how to choose the right wedge anchor for your needs and experience the confidence that comes with using premium wedge anchors. 

• For critical applications or projects involving significant weight loads, consult a professional engineer to ensure you select the appropriate anchor type and installation method.

Conclusion

Concrete anchors are a vital component for securely attaching objects to concrete surfaces. By understanding the strengths, functionalities, and selection factors outlined in this article, you can confidently navigate the world of concrete anchors. 

Remember, prioritizing quality anchors, adhering to manufacturer specifications, and consulting professionals for high-demand projects will ensure your project's success and longevity. So, the next time you need to secure something to concrete, don't underestimate the power of the right concrete anchor.

FAQs

What factors affect the strength of a concrete anchor?

Anchor type, size, concrete strength, and embedment depth are key factors affecting the anchor's hold.

What are the best types of concrete anchors for different applications?

• Light-duty (under 100 lbs): Plastic anchors, machine screw anchors, lag shields.
• Medium-duty (100-500 lbs): Strike anchors, sleeve anchors, concrete screws.
• Heavy-duty (500+ lbs): Wedge anchors, sleeve anchors (heavy-duty), threaded rod anchors.

When should I use wedge anchors?

Wedge anchors are ideal for heavy-duty applications, providing exceptional strength and reliability for securing beams, machinery, or structural elements.

What are the pros and cons of concrete screws?

They are fast and easy to install, suitable for light to medium-duty applications, but may not work well in weak concrete or heavy-duty scenarios.

How do I choose the right concrete anchor?

Consider the load, material (concrete, brick, or masonry), application demands (vibration, moisture), and installation method. Always consult manufacturer specs and opt for a stronger anchor when in doubt.

Do I need a professional for heavy-load applications?

Yes, consulting an engineer is recommended for critical projects involving significant weight loads to ensure proper anchor selection and installation.