What is a wedge anchor?
A wedge anchor is a mechanical type expansion anchor that consists of four parts: the threaded anchor body, the expansion clip, a nut, and a washer. These anchors provide the highest and most consistent holding values of any mechanical type expansion anchor.
When should I use one?
A wedge anchor is designed for fastening in concrete only.
Can I use this anchor with brick or block?
No, this anchor is designed to be used specifically with concrete. It is not for use with any other masonry materials.
What are these anchors made of?
These anchors are made of zinc plated carbon steel, hot-dipped galvanized, 303 stainless steel, and 316 stainless steel.
Is a stainless steel wedge anchor stronger than a zinc plate wedge anchor?
No. Wedge anchors are made from different materials and plated with different materials, but this does not affect the holding values of the anchor. The holding value tables and information are the same for each anchor, regardless of the different materials.
Can I get one in grade-8 steel?
No. The standard zinc plated anchor is made from grade-2 steel. There is no need for higher grade steel in this kind of anchor because the concrete at 2000 psi to 4000 psi is the weakest link, compared to the approximately 50,000 psi of grade-2 steel.
Are Red Heads and wedge anchors the same thing?
Yes, they are both the same type of fastener. Red Head is a type of wedge anchor manufactured by a company called ITW, Inc. The term wedge anchor is the generic term for a type of concrete anchor.
How do I install a wedge anchor?
Simply assemble the correct tools and materials, drill a hole, install the anchor, and finish it with a hammer and torque wrench. For detailed installation instructions, please visit our Tips & Tricks page.
What size hole should I drill?
The diameter of the hole to be drilled into the concrete should be equal to the diameter of the anchor being installed.
How deep should I drill the hole?
The hole needs to be drilled a minimum of 1/2” deeper than the anchor will penetrate the concrete. Each diameter anchor has a minimum embedment for installation to allow the anchor to achieve its minimum holding values.
Do I have to clean the hole before installation?
Yes, it is imperative to clear the hole of all dust and debris to ensure that the anchor has the best environment to achieve its proper holding values.
How much should I tighten the nut on the anchor?
Once the nut is finger tight, use a wrench to tighten two to three full turns. This should ensure proper installation torque. Use a torque wrench to ensure specific torque values for the diameter anchor being installed.
How much space do I need to leave between anchors?
As a general rule, it is recommended to allow a minimum of ten anchor diameters between anchors measured from center point to center point.
How will I know how deeply an anchor is embedded in the concrete if it is already installed?
All wedge anchors have a stamp identification that indicates the overall length of the anchor. Subtracting the length of the anchor above the concrete from the length corresponding to the stamped letter will help you determine the embedment depth of the particular anchor.
How do I remove this anchor?
Once this anchor is installed in the concrete, it cannot be removed without damaging the concrete or without using a cut-off saw to cut the anchor off at the surface of the concrete.
Are any of these kinds of anchors made in the USA?
Yes, Concrete Fasteners Inc. offers a full line of domestic wedge anchors in zinc plated carbon steel, hot-dipped galvanized, 303 stainless steel, and 316 stainless steel.
