Concrete Drilling and Fastener Installation
Purchase a Range of Concrete Screw Lengths
Purchase a range of lengths to ensure that you have the suitable screw size on hand. Choose a screw that will pierce the concrete at least 1 in. Add 1 in. to the thickness of the material you’re attaching to determine the shortest length of screw required In hard, solid materials like concrete or stone, this 1-in. Screw embedment will function perfectly. Use longer screws, up to 1-3/4 in., for optimal strength. embedding in soft brick or less thick materials You may need to try a few different lengths to locate a screw that you can completely drive and that holds firmly.
Blue concrete screws are available at home centers, hardware stores, and lumberyards, or you may buy them by phone or online. Screws come in a variety of lengths, in packets of 8 or 25, and in boxes of 100. The more the quantity purchased, the lower the price. Drill bits are commonly packaged in packs of 25 or more. If you undertake a lot of tasks, it’s good having a couple of screw sizes on hand.
Make certain that the hole is sufficiently deep.
Concrete screw holes should be at least 1/4 in. deep. deeper than the screw will penetrate to allow for dust collection during the drilling operation See the diagram above. However, it is not always straightforward to determine how deep you are digging. If the hole is too shallow, the screw will not fit. Furthermore, digging any deeper than necessary is a waste of time and effort. As a result, most hammer drills include an adjustable depth stop.
Troubleshooting
If you’re having difficulties getting the screw all the way into the hole, check sure it’s deep enough. If it is and you are still experiencing problems, the hole most likely has too much grit in it. Remove the screw and clean out the hole by inserting and removing the bit many times. Drive the screw one more. Back it out and redrive it a few times if it’s still stubborn. If everything else fails, add another screw a few inches away. Finally, consider using a slightly shorter screw for the remaining holes.
Make use of a Hammer Drill.
Pilot holes in less thick materials, such as soft brick, can be drilled with a normal drill and a carbide-tipped bit. However, in most circumstances, a hammer drill will be required. Corded hammer drills range in price from $65 to $400, while cordless models start at $230. Hammer drills may also be rented for around $35 per day.
Precisely sized carbide-tipped bits are frequently provided with screw packs, but you may also buy one individually. Match the bit size to the screw size: 5/32-in. 3/16-inch bit screws, as well as 3/16-in. 1/4-in. diameter bit
Drill with a firm hand and consistent pressure.
Driving concrete screws requires precise precision. If you don’t provide enough downward pressure, the bit may fall off the head, especially if you’re using Phillips head screws. Maintain consistent pressure on the screw and operate the drill at a moderate to medium pace for the best results.
To avoid breaking screws, use a delicate touch. Heavy-duty drills are ideal because they can operate at a constant slow pace. Stop when the screw is flat with the surface and your material is securely fastened.
If you have any concerns concerning the drilled pier method or want to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of other methods, please contact RLM Retrofit Foundation. Call us if you need a Foundation Inspection Near Me Pacific Palisades or repair.
