Paul Bianchina: Simple solution for bolting into concrete

2021-12-08 12:19:03 By : Ms. Alice Lu

Fixing frames, fixtures, equipment, or anything else to concrete has always been a difficult task.

There are a variety of anchors on the market to complete this work, but many of them are difficult to install correctly, cannot be used near the edges of concrete slabs or foundation walls, or lack sufficient strength to meet building code requirements.

However, there is an anchor that can solve all these problems, and DIYers can easily install it without special tools. It is called Titen HD Heavy Duty Screw Anchor, manufactured by Simpson StrongTie, the company has long been known for its wide range of steel hangers and other construction fastening and connector supplies. I have personally used them in several projects and the effect is very good.

Titen HD looks a bit similar to traditional tension bolts, but all similarities are limited to this. These bolts are designed to be installed directly into the pre-drilled holes, no additional shielding or other types of anchors are required, and they only need to be screwed into place without any epoxy. For tool and equipment installation, if the equipment needs to be repositioned, they are also easy to disassemble.

Titen anchors have wide pitch carbon steel threads with serrated edges, allowing the threads to actually cut into the side of the hole. The standard size hexagon head can be driven by a traditional sleeve, and the bottom of the head flares out into the gasket, providing a clean finished appearance. There are small ratchet teeth on the underside of the washer to provide additional protection when subjected to vibrations and prevent the bolts from loosening.

The installation of the Titen HD anchor is very simple. First, drill a hole of the right size and depth in the concrete; the anchor provides the correct diameter and depth information.

Drilling into concrete requires the use of cemented carbide drill bits specially designed for masonry engineering. If you only have a few holes to drill, you can use a traditional cordless or electric drill. However, if you have to drill a lot of holes, or if the concrete is old and hard, you will get better results with a hammer drill, which combines circular drilling motion with in-and-out hammering motion. Hammer drills can be rented at most rental sites, and you can also obtain the necessary drill bits there. After drilling, use an air compressor to blow the accumulated dust out of the hole.

Next, position anything that is bolted to the drilled hole. Pass the Titen anchor bolt through the bolt to be tightened and insert it into the hole, and then use a socket wrench or impact wrench to tighten the bolt.

For frame installation, Titen anchor bolts can usually be used to replace traditional anchor bolts for many types of installations. Please consult your local construction department for specific information and requirements.

The original Titen HD can be used for cracked and uncracked concrete and uncracked masonry. It is suitable for dry, indoor, non-corrosive environments, and you can also use them for temporary outdoor applications. The size ranges from 1/4 inch to 3/4 inch in diameter and 1-3/4 to 15 inches in length.

There is also a version with a countersunk head for indoor corrosion-free applications that require a flush mounting surface, such as installing steel doors or installing certain types of fixtures. The size of the counterbore series includes 1/4 and 3/8 inch diameter, and the length is 1-7/8 to 5 inches.

For outdoor and corrosive environments, Simpson also offers several different versions of stainless steel Titen HD. Model 304 is a low-cost series designed for less extreme applications, which may only be wet or humid. For corrosive or chemical environments, or use around salt water, Type 316 is more resistant to corrosion.

Titen anchors in more common sizes can be purchased at most lumber yards, home centers, and hardware stores. Less common sizes and types may require special order, or they can be ordered online.

Have questions about Paul's house repair or renovation? You can contact him via email to improve your home@ykwc.net.

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