Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size drill bit do I need to drill a hole for a wedge anchor?
A: Hole diameter is equal to anchor diameter. So, choose a drill bit that is equal to the anchor diameter being used.
Q: How do I remove a wedge anchor from concrete?
A: Once installed, concrete wedge anchors cannot be removed without causing damage to the surrounding concrete. However, the anchor can be sawed off. Also, if the hole is drilled deep enough, the wedge anchor can be hammered into the hole until it is flush with the surface to hide the anchor if needed.
Q: How deep does the wedge anchor need to be embedded into the concrete?
A: Each wedge anchor diameter has a minimum embedment. It is important to look at the wedge anchor technical data to determine the minimum embedment for your application.
Q: How close together can I install concrete wedge anchors?
A: The concrete anchor industry has established a minimum standard of ten (10) anchor diameters for spacing between anchors.
Q: How close to an unsupported edge can I install a concrete wedge anchor?
A: The concrete anchor industry has established a minimum of five (5) anchor diameters from an unsupported edge.
Q: How important is it to clean out the hole before inserting a wedge anchor?
A: Very important! The hole must be cleaned out by using compressed air/shop vac/wire brush to remove all of the loose dust in the hole. This will minimize slippage after the wedge anchor is set.
Q: How do I determine the length of wedge anchor required?
A: Add the thickness of the material to be fastened, plus the minimum embedment for the diameter of anchor being used, plus the nut and washer (typically equal to the diameter itself).
Q: Can I install the concrete wedge anchor in brick or block?
A: No, the concrete wedge anchor is designed for use in solid concrete only.
Q: From what type of steel is the wedge anchor made?
A: Standard and galvanized wedge anchors are made from AISC12L14 carbon steel. Stainless steel wedge anchors can be made from 303 or 316 Stainless Steel.
Q: What does the letter on the top of the wedge anchor mean?
A: The letter is a length identification system used for inspecting the anchor once it has already been set. Once set, the total length of the anchor cannot be determined, so eachletter corresponds to a specific overall length. View the complete Wedge Anchor Length Identification chart.
Q: Can I use a wedge anchor in a brick wall to attach a LCD television?
A: No, the wedge anchor is designed for use in solid concrete only.
Q: Are galavanized wedge anchors rust proof?
A: No, galvanized wedge anchors have a physical barrier protecting the exposed steel which makes the anchor rust resistant but not rust proof.
Q: What are some of the reasons that I would have to use a 316 stainless steel wedge anchor and not a 303 stainless steel wedge anchor?
A: There are many factors that may cause a highly corrosive environment where a 316 stainless steel anchor should be used. Some of these factors include: pressure-treated lumber, ocean salt air, fertilizers and the exposure of dissimiliar metals. The 316 stainless steel anchors are estimated to cost 2x the amount of the galvanized wedge anchor, that is why users prefer the galvanized wedge anchors.
Q: Is the galvanized wedge anchor stronger than the zinc plated wedge anchor?
A: No, the plating on the wedge anchor doesn't determine the strength of the anchor itself. The plating only determines the corrosion resistance of the anchor.
Q: Do I have to pre-drill the holes for a wedge anchor or can I drill them through the fixture?
A: The installer can drill the hole through the fixture into the concrete for installation if the hole diameter in the fixture is large enough for the bit to fit through.
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