A Mini Guide To Wedge Anchors

Because they provide the highest and most reliable holding values for concrete applications, it doesn’t come as a surprise that wedge anchors are widely used in constructions nowadays. The fact that these fasteners are especially designed for concrete applications cannot be stressed enough. Attempting to use a wedge anchor to fasten other types of materials […]

Because they provide the highest and most reliable holding values for concrete applications, it doesn’t come as a surprise that wedge anchors are widely used in constructions nowadays. The fact that these fasteners are especially designed for concrete applications cannot be stressed enough. Attempting to use a wedge anchor to fasten other types of materials will render the fastener useless.

What happens if you use wedge anchors with different materials?

For starters, anchors require you to pre-drill holes appropriate for their size; inserting the fastener in a hole that is too large will determine it to spin and hence, it won’t provide the expected holding values. Moreover, let’s not forget that it’s impossible to remove wedge anchors once they are inserted into the appropriate size opening.

Even though they are widely used in constructions, these fasteners only provide excellent results with solid concrete. Therefore, if your project implies working with other types of materials – mortar joints, bricks or block – then you should discuss the right type of fastener to use with your provider. While you could argue that certain materials like granite or natural stone share the same strength as cement, the wedge anchors’ holding capabilities have not been tested on them. Therefore, if you choose to utilize them, you do so at your own risk.

 
Wedge anchors can be safely used indoors and outdoors

It is important to note that wedge anchors are the only mechanical fasteners of their kind that you can use in both indoors and outdoors settings. To be more precise, these fasteners are nowadays made of various steel alloys and feature four different types of plating based on the common construction application requirements.

Therefore, if your project implies using wedge anchors in outdoor applications that are submerged in water – such as a pool for instance – then you should opt for fasteners made of 304 or 316 stainless steel. As far as the plating is concerned, things are pretty straightforward: for dry indoors environments opt for zinc plating, while for outdoor settings with moderate to high humidity levels choose hot-dipped galvanized wedge anchors.

Requirements for using wedge anchors correctly

Although the fasteners are designed for concrete applications, constructors are highly advised to allow the material to settle for around 28 days before attempting to drill the hole for the anchor. In addition, wedge anchors should only be employed for static loads, meaning one that doesn’t move. Using wedge anchors in green cement or with loads subjected to vibrations and shocks will considerably reduce their holding value.