What is a hammer drive anchor?
A hammer drive anchor is a permanent fastener designed for simple, fast, and easy installation.
When should I use one?
These anchors are used for light duty fastening in brick, concrete block, or concrete—any solid type of masonry materials. From the garage to fireplaces to interior walls, these materials are all around us. These anchors permanently attach items that weigh 50 pounds or less to solid masonry materials.
What materials are in the anchors?
The body of the anchor is made from a non-rusting material called Zamac. The included nail is made from either a zinc plated carbon steel or 304 stainless steel.
Do the nails come with the anchor?
Yes. The nail and anchor are already assembled. They are available in certain diameters in stainless steel or zinc plated carbon steel.
What sizes of hammer drive anchors are available?
They come in two diameters, 3/16” and 1/4”. A variety of lengths are available, ranging from 3/4” up to 3”.
How do I install a hammer drive anchor?
It’s simple: drill the hole, insert the anchor, and hammer in the nail. For more detailed instructions, visit the Tips & Tricks page.
How do I know what length anchor I need for my project?
The length of the anchor is measured from underneath the head. To determine the length of anchor needed for a successful installation, add the thickness of the material being fastened to the minimum embedment depth, between 1/2” and 1-1/4”.
How deep should I drill the hole?
The hole needs to be drilled a minimum of 1/4” deeper than the anchor will be in the base material.
Do I need to spot the holes when I am installing the anchor?
No, the anchor can be installed through the hole in the fixture and directly into the predrilled hole in the base material.
How do I know that the anchor is set?
You will know that the anchor is set when the head of the nail is flush with the surface of the head of the anchor body.
If I’m installing multiple anchors for my project, how far apart should I install the anchors from each another?
Generally, these anchors should be spaced at a minimum distance of ten times the anchor diameter. To find that number, multiply the anchor diameter by ten. For example, 3/16” anchors should be spaced a minimum of 1.9” from each other, and 1/4” anchors should be spaced a minimum of 2.5” from each other.
Can I use a hammer drive anchor in outdoor applications?
The drive with a carbon steel zinc plated nail should only be used in dry, indoor environments. The anchor with the stainless steel nail can be used in outdoor or wet environments.
Can I use this anchor for overhead applications?
No, these anchors are not recommended for overhead use.
Can I install a hammer drive anchor in ACQ treated lumber?
No. There has not been any testing done to determine if this anchor is acceptable for installing into ACQ treated lumber.
Can I use this anchor in red brick?
These anchors require a solid base material. If the red brick is solid with no holes in it, then the hammer drive can be installed.
Are these anchors ever called different names?
Yes. Hammer drive anchors are also sometimes called Zamacs, pin anchors, metal hits, nailins, and pin drive anchors.
