Concrete screws securely fasten objects to concrete surfaces by directly screwing into pre-drilled holes – providing a strong hold for medium to high load applications, such as attaching brackets, pipes, electrical boxes, or structural elements to concrete walls, floors and ceilings. There are many considerations when choosing the proper cement screw for any application to ensure success.
The first consideration is diameter – cement screws commonly come in two diameters, either 3/16 inch or 1/4 inch. The measurement refers to the outside diameter of the screw, which allows the screw to be inserted through a hole in the fixture equal to the diameter of the cement screw being installed. For heavy duty projects, larger diameters are available.
Length is also an important consideration. Concrete screws come in a variety of lengths from 1 1/4 inch long to 6 inches. The length needed for any application usually depends on the thickness of the fixture being fastened to concrete.
Cement screws are also manufactured from a variety of materials and finishes – these include zinc-plated carbon steel, galvanised steel and stainless steel. The zinc-plated cement screw should be used in indoor dry applications. When there is moisture present or in corrosive environments, galvanised or stainless steel are better suited. These screws can be used in solid concrete, hollow precast concrete, brick, CMU, block and mortar joints, and the holding strength of the cement screw is dependent on the strength of the base material as well as on the quality of the installation.
Two head styles are available when it comes to concrete screws – hex washer and flat countersunk – and are usually dependant on the type of application. The hex washer head utilises a nut driver for installation and the flat countersunk requires the use of a Phillips drive.
Then there’s the matter of reusability. Ultimately, cement screws can be removed but should not be reused in the same hole because holding values may be diminished or non-existent. Using the cement screw in another hole can be done if the cutting edge of the screw is able to tap threads.
Becca is the latest member to join our team and is eager to get stuck into the world of fasteners. She brings an enthusiastic and fresh outlook on what we do editorially and will be leading our social media activity – including sourcing material, editing articles and posting online.
