How to Anchor Wood Into Stone

Anchoring wood into stone requires specific fasteners for a sturdy connection.

Many homeowners have stone walls as decorative and functional protection against the weather elements. Different stones can be used across the wall surface to create a unique appearance. However, adding a wood shelf or other lumber product to the stone generates a fastening problem. Anchoring wood into stone will entail purchasing the proper fastener for a strong connection.

Things You'll Need

• Power drill
• Masonry drill bits
• Air compressor
• Sleeve anchors
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Drill a hole into the stone with a power drill fitted with a masonry drill bit. The drill's bit size should be approximately the same dimensions as the sleeve anchor.

2. Blow the stone debris from the drill hole with an air compressor. Make sure that the entire hole is clean; any residual dust or debris can impede the effectiveness of the sleeve anchor fastener.

3. Hold the wood item to be installed against the stone and the drilled hole. Align the drilled hole with the wood's open screw hole with your hands.

4. Slide a sleeve anchor fastener into the aligned holes.

5. Tighten the screw portion of the sleeve anchor by using a screwdriver. Make sure to hold the wood firmly against the stone to prevent accidental movement.

6. Stop the tightening process when the screw is flush with the wood surface. Overtightening can damage the stone or sleeve anchor, requiring a new drilled hole and sleeve anchor.

7. Gently remove your hands from the wood and stone connection. Check the security of the connection by trying to move the wood; it should be firmly set in place..

Tips & Warnings

• If the wood item does not have pre-drilled holes along its surface, it will be necessary to drill the holes into the wood prior to installing it against the stone wall.

• Use caution while drilling the holes into the stone. The stone's dense construction can easily break drill bits. Use eye protection and a face mask to prevent dust inhalation.

References

• Home Depot: Masonry & Concrete Anchors
• Bolt Depot: Sleeve Anchors
• Family Handyman: How to Choose and Use Concrete Fasteners