Tips for Selecting and Installing Concrete Screws

Concrete Screws for MEP & HVAC

Concrete screws are commonly used in the MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) sectors as they provide a strong and secure hold that can withstand heavy loads and vibration. Also, unlike expansion anchors they are easier to install and can be used to fix into cracked concrete and even close to edges.

Concrete screws are ideal for a variety of purposes and can be used for fixing into concrete walls, floors, and ceilings to:

• Suspend pipes
• Mount electrical boxes and conduit
• Hang HVAC equipment, such as air conditioning units and ductwork
• Mount brackets

By using concrete screws in MEP and HVAC applications, contractors can ensure that their installations are strong, secure, and safe. Even though concrete screws typically have a higher cost, because they are so quick and easy to install, using concrete screws can generally still help to save time and labour costs for construction projects. Additionally, with concrete screws if installations need to be repositioned, this is relatively simple to do, when compared to other common fixing options such as expansion anchors.

Selecting the Right Concrete Screw

Before installing, contractors first have to select the right concrete screw for their application based on the project requirements and manufactures recommendations:

• Substrate Type: Different substrates, such as concrete, cracked concrete, brick, or block etc. require different types of screws. Make sure to choose a screw that is specifically designed for the type of substrate.

• Screw Head Type: Various concrete screw head types have different applications and allow for varying degrees of tightening. Types include:
  • Hex Head – for more heavy-duty applications as the hex head allows for firmer tightening and solid through-fixing of rails, wall plates etc.
  • Pan Head - ideal for fastening channel directly to the ceiling for the installation of pipes or ventilation ducts. Offer a flush fix against the surface of the attached material.
  • Rod Hanger - offer a fast alternative to traditional expansion anchors, and are suitable for hanging threaded rod from ceiling installations.
  • Stud Anchor – their male connection threaded screw is suitable for fixing pipe clamps, brackets and channel with maximum efficiency. Simplifying overhead installations.

• Strength / Weight Load: Consider the size and strength of the concrete screw required. Make sure to choose a screw that is rated for the item weight.

• Depth: Consider the depth of the pilot hole to be drilled and how thick the actual substrate is to be drilled. Some concrete screws require a deeper hole than others, which could impact the integrity of the substrate.

• Frequency: Consider the size and number of items to be hung, how close together will the concrete screw fixings need to be in order to distribute the weight of the item/s evenly.

• Specified Approvals: Has a certain approval rating been stipulated for the project, such as the concrete screws / anchors used must be ETA (European Technical Assessment) approved.

Check out our Concrete Screw range here.

Tips for Correctly Installing Concrete Screws

Once you’ve selected the concrete screw for your project having taken the above factors into account follow the tips below to help ensure a safe and secure install:

• Drill a pilot hole: Use a masonry bit to drill a pilot hole in the concrete to insert the screw. Make sure the hole is the correct diameter and depth for the concrete screw being used. Avoid any reinforcement and space the screws correctly.

• Clean the hole: Remove any dust or debris from the pilot hole using a blow-out pump before inserting the concrete screw. This will help ensure a strong, secure hold.

• Use the correct tool and tightening torque: Gently tap the concrete screw into the pilot hole, then use a tool with the stipulated torque setting for tightening but do not over tighten. If you overtighten the screw or use a tool which is too powerful, you risk breaking the concrete screw or impacting its performance.

• Check for stability: Once the item is hung, check to make sure the fixing is secure, level and stable.

• Manufacturer's instructions: Most importantly always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing concrete screws (or for any other type of anchor), as they provide specific guidance which is important for:
  • Safety: to ensure the concrete screw is used in a safe and proper manner, reducing the risk of injury or damage to the surrounding area.
  • Product performance: The manufacturer's instructions will specify the correct way to install the concrete screw, which will ensure that it performs as intended and can support the weight it’s designed to hold.
  • Warranty: Most manufacturers offer a warranty on their products, but that warranty may be voided if the product is not installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Correct installation: The manufacturer's instructions will specify the correct size of pilot hole to drill, the depth to insert the concrete screw, and the proper torque for tightening the concrete screw. These details are critical for ensuring a proper fit and a secure hold.

By following these tips along with the manufacturer's instructions, MEP and HVAC contractors can ensure their installation is safe, secure, and performs as intended. Remember, although concrete is a strong and durable material, it can be brittle and prone to cracking. So, as well as following manufacturer’s instructions for installation, always take precautions when working with concrete and wear the correct PPE, such as safety glasses, gloves, and masks to prevent injury.

Summary of Concrete Screws Benefits

Concrete screws are a great alternative to using expansion anchors. Benefits include:

• Quicker and simpler installation as they can be drilled straight in.

• Can be used in cracked concrete and even close to edges.

• Less dust on site as they require smaller drill holes.

• Greater flexibility as they can easily be removed and repositioned.

• Peace of mind as they provide a solid anchor setting.

Concrete screws also comply with the 18th Edition BS 7671:2018 IET wiring regulations, which now require only metallic fixings to be used for cable installations.

Need an Anchor Test or Further Concrete Screw Advice?

We can arrange anchor tests in accordance with recommendations of BS8539. Once completed a detailed report is provided to show the conformance of the fixing to the required project load levels.

We can also undertake site visits to advise on the types of concrete screws or suggest alternative fixing solutions.

Contact our team on 01322274226 or [email protected] for further information.