Tapcon® screws
can be used when you need to fasten/attach a sign to concrete. Tapcons
are designed for use in concrete and are manufactured with a hex washer
head that is perfect for attaching signs to concrete. The size of the
hole that needs to be drilled in the concrete depends on the diameter of
the concrete screw being used. A 3/16" diameter Tapcon® requires a
5/32" bit and a 1/4" diameter Tapcon® requires a 3/16" bit. Tapcons
have special hardened threads that tap into the concrete. These
concrete screws should be embedded into the base material a minimum of
1" and a maximum of 1-3/4". The minimum length of the screw chosen
should be determined by adding the thickness of the material being
fastened to the maximum embedment of 1". The longest screw that should
be used is determined by adding the thickness of the material being
fastened to the maximum embedment depth of 1-3/4".
A hammer drill must be used when fastening a sign to concrete,
brick or block base material because it will provide the best quality
hole tolerance. Hole tolerance is critical when installing fasteners
into the base material. The hammer motion breaks up the material and the
rotation pulls the material out of the hole. It is important to always
wear eye and ear protection when using a hammer drill. The hole for a
Tapcon® screw should always be drilled 1/2" deeper into the base
material than the screw will penetrate the concrete. When using concrete
screws in outdoor applications, stainless steel Tapcons should be used
since they are more rust resistant and will provide an atttractive
appearance that will last for a longer period of time.
Below are step by step instructions on how to use Tapcons to fasten/attach a sign to concrete:
1. Once a location has been chosen for the sign, place the sign
on the concrete and mark the hole locations on the base material.
2. Using a hammer drill, drill the correct diameter of hole for
the Tapcon® being used. A 3/16" diameter should have a 5/32" hole
drilled while a 1/4" screw should have a 3/16" hole drilled. Make sure
that the hole is drilled a minimum of 1/2" deeper than the screw will
penetrate the concrete.
3. Clean the hole of all debris and dust created during the drilling process.
4. Place the sign back into position and insert the concrete
screw(s) through the sign and into the hole drilled in the concrete.
5. With the drill in rotation mode, turn the screw slowly. Avoid
stripping the threads being tapped into the concrete. Keep turning the
screw slowly until the head of the screw is flush with the sign. Repeat
this procedure for all holes drilled.
Tapcon® screws
are an excellent choice for attaching a sign to concrete. It is
important to follow all instructions when installing Tapcons to ensure
proper and safe placement of these concrete anchors.
As with any anchoring project, it is important to keep safety in mind and follow instructions carefully. Always remember to wear safety goggles, handle all tools with extra care and follow all technical specifications. This article is meant to serve only as a basic explanation of concrete fasteners. Always refer to manufacturer's instructions or consult a contracting expert during any anchoring project.
Article Written By:
Bob Carlisle, President of Concrete Fasteners
Concrete Fasteners, Inc. has over 40 years of experience selling concrete fasteners. We can ship out one box or a whole pallet of concrete anchors. Our products are of the highest quality... "your satisfaction is guaranteed". We ship all orders the same day the order is received.