How to Screw Into Concrete

Setting a screw in concrete takes special tools and some talent. With the right information and the correct fasteners, you can quickly turn unused walls in your basement or garage into valuable storage areas. Or, you can use masonry screws to attach furring strips to the concrete walls and from there, add drywall to finish your basement.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Protective gear such as eye protection, earplugs and a dust mask
• Anchors and screws
• Carbide-tipped drill bits
• Hammer drill
• Hammer
• Screwdriver
• Masking tape
• Canned air

1. Choose the right fastener for the job. Calculate the weight of the object that must hang from the concrete. Also, make sure the screw is long enough. Read the packaging to get the correct fastener.

2. Wear protective gear. This includes eye protection, earplugs and a dust mask.

3. Mark the concrete where the screw goes. Either use a permanent marker or make an "X" with masking tape.

4. Insert a carbide-tipped drill into your hammer drill. The carbide tip holds up to the density of the concrete better than a regular drill. Mark the depth of the hole with masking tape on the drill bit.

5. Use a hammer drill to make a pilot hole. A hammer drill cannot burn out the motor on a tough substance like concrete as easily as a regular drill.

6. Drill a hole the size specified on the packaging of the fastener. Blow out any excess dust.

7. Tap the anchor gently into the hole using a hammer. Insert the screw, and tighten it. Don't over-tighten the screw, or it might break the concrete surrounding the anchor.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't place the screws too close together. This may cause the concrete to crack.