Concrete Screw
Anchors · Tapcon (brand) · masonry screw · concrete screw anchor
Definition: A concrete screw (Tapcon is the leading brand) is a case-hardened screw with alternating high-low threads that cut directly into concrete, brick, or block — no anchor body needed.
Anatomy
■ Head■ Shank■ Threads■ Point
Governing standards: ICC-ES AC193
Common Sizes
| Inch | Metric | Head width | Head height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3/16 | 4.8 mm | 5/32 drill | 1 min embed |
| 1/4 | 6.4 mm | 3/16 drill | 1-1/4 min embed |
Representative sizes. Full dimensional data lives in the standards listed below.
Grades & Strength
| Grade | Material | Tensile (psi) | Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (blue) | case-hardened carbon steel | — | Tapcon blue |
| Stainless | 410 stainless, hardened | — | For corrosive environments |
Materials
- Case-hardened carbon steel (blue coated)
- Stainless steel
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Removable — unscrew and reuse the hole
- No separate anchor body
- Fast with an impact driver
Cons
- Needs an exact-size pilot hole
- Can spall brick edges if too close
- Hole must be drilled to correct depth
Typical Uses
- Electrical boxes and conduit straps
- Furring strips on masonry
- Window and door frames to concrete
- Light fixtures on brick
Alternatives & Related
- Wedge Anchor — Much higher strength for structural loads
- Sleeve Anchor — Where a larger body anchor is preferred
Top Picks
- Tapcon concrete screws — 3/16 + 1/4 in, blue
Where to Buy
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
FAQ
What is a Tapcon?
Tapcon is a brand of concrete screw — a blue, case-hardened screw that cuts its own thread into concrete, brick, or block. The name is used generically for masonry screws.
What size drill bit for a Tapcon?
Use the bit specified for the diameter — 5/32 in for 3/16 in screws and 3/16 in for 1/4 in screws — drilled 1/4 in deeper than the embedment.