Fastening to concrete needs the right anchor and a hammer drill, not regular screws and wall plugs. Done right, concrete anchors hold heavy loads securely for the life of the structure.
Choose the anchor
Match the anchor to the load: plastic anchors and concrete screws (like Tapcons) handle light to medium loads; sleeve and wedge anchors hold heavier loads; epoxy anchors are for the heaviest or structural fastenings. Pick the diameter and length for your job.
Drill the hole
Use a hammer drill with a masonry bit sized for the anchor, drilling slightly deeper than the anchor length. Vacuum or blow the dust out of the hole — debris stops anchors from seating and holding properly.
Set the anchor
Insert and set the anchor per its type (tapping, expanding, or epoxy-setting), then fasten your fixture. Don't overtighten, which can crack the concrete or spin the anchor. For outdoor or wet use, choose corrosion-resistant anchors.