Masonry Screws
Masonry Screws
Masonry screws are screws that tap threads into a predrilled hole in masonry. Masonry can be solid concrete, brick or block base material. The name brand most commonly associated with masonry screws is Tapcon®. The Tapcon® masonry screw was developed by ITW Buildex in the late 1970’s and sold online by Concrete Fasteners, Inc. Masonry screws are unique because the threads are hardened to tap threads into the masonry and designed to eliminate the dust created during the tapping operation.
Tapcon vs. Generic Masonry Screws
The Tapcon® brand masonry screw is American-made in contrast to most generic masonry screws that are made overseas and imported to the United States. Generic Tapcon® masonry screws do not install as easily as the Tapcon® and because they are not coated with the same rust protection, they will rust more quickly. Generic Tapcon® masonry screws threads also do not eliminate the dust created during the tapping operation and when used over maximum embedment depths, they will often shear off. Generic Tapcon® masonry screws are less expensive and can save money for the customer who is purchasing generic Tapcon® masonry screws. If the Tapcon® brand masonry screw is purchased on-line, the pricing will be less expensive than the generic masonry screw purchased locally. In addition, all sizes are in stock and stainless steel masonry screws are also available.
Blue Masonry Screws
The masonry screw is sometimes referred to as a blue screw, due to the fact that the original Tapcon® masonry screw was colored blue for product differentiation. All other masonry screws on the market today, including the Tapcon® screw are colored blue. This can make it difficult for the end user to know if the screw being used is the original American-made Tapcon®. Because the screw is blue does not mean that the coating is the same. The Tapcon® blue coating is a trademarked and patented process called Climaseal®. Many generic masonry screws are painted blue or have a type of coating that does not meet the same rust resistance qualities as the Climaseal® coating for the Tapcon® masonry screw.
Buying Masonry Screws Online
Buying masonry screws online can save users money, time and effort. At www.concretefastenes.com, every size is in stock including the standard blue, the stainless steel and large diameter tapcons. Each box of 100 Tapcon® masonry screws are packaged with one proper sized bit, which saves money because the bit does not need to be purchased separately. All the Tapcon® technical information is readily available to provide necessary answers about a specific application before a purchase is made. If several masonry screws are needed for a specific job or for the same day, then buying at a local store may be desirable. Online purchases, depending on shipping address, can be a minimum of one day or a maximum of four days. A small amount of planning can save a lot of money and also ensure that the original Tapcon® masonry screw is being used.
Need more questions about using masonry screws in your application? Browse this collection of Tapcon® screw FAQs.
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 the masonry screws. Always refer to manufacturer's instructions or consult a contracting expert during any anchoring project.
Article Written By:
Bob Carlisle, President of Concrete Fasteners
Tawny L. Sikon, Operations Manager
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.