Fastener Guide

How to Attach Wood to Concrete (Tapcon, Anchors & Adhesive)

  1. Pick the method by load: construction adhesive for trim and sleepers, Tapcon screws for plates and framing, wedge anchors for posts and ledgers.

    Save Step 1: Pick the method by load: construction adhesive for trim and sleepers, Tapcon screws for plates and framing, wedge anchors for posts and ledgers.

  2. Mark layouts, then drill with a hammer drill and carbide masonry bit — the bit diameter must match the fastener exactly (5/32 in hole for 3/16 in Tapcon).

    Save Step 2: Mark layouts, then drill with a hammer drill and carbide masonry bit — the bit diameter must match the fastener exactly (5/32 in hole for 3/16 in Tapcon).

  3. Drill at least 1/4 in deeper than the embedment and blow every hole clean — dust is the number one cause of weak holds.

  4. Drive Tapcons with an impact driver until snug, then stop — over-driving strips the threads they just cut.

    Save Step 4: Drive Tapcons with an impact driver until snug, then stop — over-driving strips the threads they just cut.

  5. For bottom plates, run a bead of polyurethane adhesive under the wood before fastening to kill squeaks and seal air gaps.

    Save Step 5: For bottom plates, run a bead of polyurethane adhesive under the wood before fastening to kill squeaks and seal air gaps.

  6. On pressure-treated lumber use only coated or stainless fasteners — bare steel corrodes fast against ACQ chemicals.

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