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BlogOur content is meticulously curated through independent research, testing, reviews, and AI-driven recommendations, all designed to present you with the finest product choices. When you make a purchase through our links, it could result in us earning a commission.The Best Masonry Anchors to Secure an Item to Brick or Concrete
Last updated: 1 Jul 2024Whether you're hanging shelves, mounting a TV, or securing a heavy object, using the proper anchors is essential for ensuring a safe and sturdy installation. Masonry anchors provide the reliable support needed to prevent items from falling and causing damage or injury, giving you peace of mind in both residential and commercial settings.
The best masonry anchors are easy to install yet strong enough to handle significant loads. In our research, we evaluated the masonry anchors based on their ease of installation, materials, and length; ultimately, we chose the Confast Concrete Masonry Anchor as our favorite. Read on to see the rest of our list!
- Best Overall: Confast Concrete Masonry Anchor Shop Now ➔
- Best Value: SNUG Fasteners Masonry Anchors Shop Now ➔
- Most Versatile: KURUI Masonry Anchors Shop Now ➔
- Best for Beginners: T.K.Excellent Masonry Anchors Shop Now ➔
- Best for Lightweight Objects: Qualihome Masonry Anchors Shop Now ➔
View all ContentsThe Best Masonry Anchors
Best Overall
Not all anchors are created equal, and the Confast Concrete Masonry Anchor takes the cake when it comes to masonry anchors. Able to withstand anything you throw at this little guy, this anchor is made to be extremely durable and long-lasting. This tough little anchor is made of high-quality materials that can stand up to even the most demanding applications. Plus, it comes with a drill bit so you can get started on your project immediately.
Each package contains a total of 100 anchors, making it a good kit able to take on any home renovation job you might have planned. And with their flat Phillips head, they can be driven in with a screwdriver, making this anchor kit the best overall on this list.
Pros
- High-quality steel build
- It can be used on many surfaces
- Easy to screw in
Cons
- It is a little difficult to remove
Best Value
Whether you’re looking to hang up a new picture frame or secure a bookshelf to the wall, these SNUG Fasteners masonry anchors are ideal for the job. The flathead Phillips design and diamond tip make it easy to screw the anchors into concrete, brick, block, or other hard materials. The blue EnviroSeal coating looks great and provides added corrosion resistance for long-lasting performance.
Plus, the deep threads offer superior holding strength to keep your items securely in place. The package includes 100 screws and one masonry drill bit, making it easy to start your project immediately. Moreover, the affordable price makes these anchors an excellent value for your money.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Durable and long-lasting
- Corrosion-resistant coating
Cons
- It can be difficult to remove from wall
Most Versatile
It’s not easy being a wall, being forced into a situation where you have to hold up the burden of an entire roof. And sometimes, when it’s cold out, and all you want is to stay put, people expect you to be cheerful and welcoming. But that’s why we have anchors. To help hold things up, Kurui presents their comprehensive anchors that come in a kit of 115 screws and anchors. In five different sizes, these galvanized screws and wall plug bolts will ensure that your walls can keep doing what they do best.
These anchors offer a wide range of applications, from hanging mirrors and curtain rails to decorative pictures and photo frames. And with their clear plastic organizer box, you can easily find the right size for your project. So go ahead and put up that new towel rack – your walls will thank you.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Suitable for many types of projects
- Easy to remove
Cons
- The plastic anchors can break easily
Best for Beginners
Why settle for regular anchors when you can have the heavy-duty T.K.Excellent Blue Conical Plastic Anchors? As these anchors are exceptionally robust, they can be used in multiple indoor and outdoor applications. They also provide the surface with a cleaner, flush look, while the high-quality build ensures long-lasting results.
These bad boys expand on three sides for increased holding power, so you can rest assured that your project will stay put. The best part is that they come in a handy kit with everything you need, including a Masonry Drill Bit, Phillips/slotted pan head self-tapping screws, and a plastic case. What more could we ask for?
Pros
- Easy for beginners to install
- Large amount of anchors per set
- Very affordable price
Cons
- Difficult to use on solid concrete
Best for Lightweight Objects
Sometimes, all that a home renovation project is missing is a good anchor to hold things in place. With these Ribbed Plastic Masonry Anchors, they’ll never have to worry about their shelves caving in or pictures falling off the wall again! These light-duty anchors are easy to install and provide extra support for those who need them most.
The anchor split expands in three directions, providing maximum holding power, and the ribs prevent the anchor from rotating while the screws are drilled in. This kit comes with 100 anchors, 100 screws, and one drill bit – everything you need to get the job done right. These anchors will give your home the support it needs!
Pros
- Perfect for holding up small objects
- Affordable price point
- Easy to screw in and remove
Cons
- Can’t hold up heavy objects
The Best Masonry Anchor Buying Guide
When choosing masonry anchors, you need to make sure you pick ones that are appropriate for the job. If you’re just putting up a light piece of artwork, you can probably get away with using lighter-duty anchors, while a mirror would require you to go all-out and get heavy-duty ones. Here are a few factors to keep in mind.
Things To Look for in Masonry Anchors
Material
The first thing you need to consider is the material of the anchors. Masonry anchors are typically made of one of three materials: steel, plastic, or nylon. Steel anchors are the strongest and most durable type but also expensive. Plastic anchors are cheaper and easier to find, but they’re not as strong as steel anchors. Nylon anchors are more durable than plastic but not as strong as steel.
Size
Next, the size of the masonry anchor also needs to be considered. The size is usually listed in the product description, but it’s also important to ensure that the anchor is the right size for the hole you’re drilling. An anchor too large might not fit inside the hole and would require additional drilling, whereas, If it’s too small, it might not be able to hold the weight of whatever you’re hanging.
Load requirements
Last but not least, you must ensure that the masonry anchors can meet the load requirements for your project. This includes the weight of the people or things that will be hanging from the anchors, as well as any dynamic loads (such as wind or wave action) that might act on them. Be sure to check with a qualified engineer to make sure your anchors are up to the task.
Light duty
These expansion anchors are best suited for attaching framing hardware to wood or lightweight concrete. These include the plastic sleeve type, cone expansion, and drive pin anchors.
Medium duty
Medium duty expansion anchors are intended for medium-weight concrete, brick, or block. However, they are not recommended for use in seismic or hurricane regions. These include the wedge expansion anchor and the drop-in anchor.
Heavy duty
Heavy-duty expansion anchors are the workhorses of the industry and can be used in a wide variety of applications in concrete, brick, or block. They are also suitable for use in seismic and hurricane regions. Heavy-duty expansion anchors include the sleeve-type expansion anchor, the rod hanger anchor, and the adhesive anchor.
Types of Masonry Anchors
Plastic
Plastic anchors are the most common type of masonry anchor. They are made of nylon or another plastic and have various shapes, including plugs, anchors, and expansion anchors. Plastic anchors are used for light-duty applications in soft masonries, such as drywall.
Machine screw anchors
Machine screw anchors are made of metal and have a thread screwed into the masonry. These are the most accessible type of anchors to remove. Machine screw anchors are used for medium-duty applications in soft and hard masonries.
Drop-in anchors
Lastly, drop-in anchors are a setting tool placed in pre-drilled holes where they expand and lock it in place. These anchors are most frequently used in heavy-duty jobs, especially when working with concrete and masonry.
Masonry Anchors FAQ
What are masonry anchors?
Masonry anchors are fasteners designed to secure objects to masonry surfaces such as brick, concrete, or block. They come in various types and sizes to accommodate different applications and load requirements.
How do I choose the right masonry anchor for my project?
Choosing the right masonry anchor depends on factors such as the type of masonry, the weight of the load, and the environment. Consider the load requirements, masonry type, installation conditions, and anchor type before you buy.
How do I install masonry anchors?
Installation procedures can vary by anchor type (always read the instructions before attempting to install) but generally include these steps:
- Drill a Hole: Use the appropriate drill bit size for the anchor.
- Clean the Hole: Remove dust and debris from the hole.
- Insert the Anchor: Place the anchor into the hole.
- Fasten the Screw: Tighten the screw into the anchor to secure it in place.
What tools do I need for installing masonry anchors?
The basic tools required include:
- Drill: With a masonry drill bit.
- Hammer: For tapping in anchors if necessary.
- Screwdriver or Drill Driver: For inserting screws.
- Level or Measuring Tape: To ensure accurate placement.
Can I use masonry anchors for outdoor projects?
Yes, but you should select anchors that are designed for outdoor use and resistant to corrosion. Look for anchors made from stainless steel or coated for weather resistance.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when using masonry anchors?
- Using the Wrong Anchor Type: Ensure the anchor suits your specific application.
- Incorrect Hole Size: Match the drill bit size to the anchor specifications.
- Not Cleaning the Hole: Dust and debris can weaken the anchor’s grip.
- Overtightening: Can damage the anchor or the masonry.
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