If you have ever tried to fasten anything to concrete before, then you'll know that the job is virtually impossible without a good masonry anchor. It's hard enough choosing the right one for DIY home use, but if you need to use or retail masonry anchors regularly as part of your day-to-day business operations, then it's particularly important to get the right ones and know how to use them effectively. Choosing the right masonry anchors can make all the difference in the quality of the work you do, and the right one will ensure that your customers are happy with the job you’ve done, which means they’re also more likely to recommend you to other potential customers. Sounds pretty good, right?

What you need to know about masonry anchors

There are three broad types of masonry anchor; mechanical, powder-actuated and chemical. Unless you're building on a massive scale such as constructing a bridge, then you probably won't ever come across the chemical kind, and powder-actuated types are also not commonly used. Mechanical anchors are therefore the most prevalent and useful kind, but as products do vary depending on the manufacturer it's good to do some research into which supplier's products work best for you and your business.

GotStock offers a wide range of gotstock masonry anchors and as a member of the reputable Australian group, Wesfarmers Industrial & Safety, can be relied upon to offer a helpful solution to businesses who need to constantly manage their industrial consumable requirements. They also offer an Items Always in Stock promise so there are no delays in shipping.

The trademarked AnkaScrew brand is one of the best that GotStock have on offer, which is medium duty and particularly suited to fixing close to edges or into hollow bricks and blocks because it does not expand and damage the substrate. So bearing in mind that they work best in situations when it's not possible to insert a screw directly into the wall because you're working with drywall or concrete, what can you actually do with them?

Here are 3 uses for GotStock masonry anchors:

1. You can hang a shelf or cabinet by securing the anchor first and then insert the screw. Make sure you check the stated load capability of the anchor you choose, and consider only subjecting it to a quarter of the stated weight to make sure it can sustain it safely. The best type of gotstock masonry anchors for this would be the AnkaScrew or a similar screw-in type. You can speak to gotstock to see what they recommend if you’re unsure.

2. You can anchor desks and machinery in your office or factory environment using sleeve anchors which GotStock also sell. With this type, the sleeves pinch the edges of the pilot hole and get progressively tighter as you drive the screw into place. To ensure you buy the right length, remember that it's measured from the end of the anchor to the washer.

3. You can hang metal brackets with the use of GotStock's hammer-in anchors. This variety can also be used to hang furring strips and a separate screw is not required. They're easy to install but cannot be used in a surface that is crumbly.

It's best to think about exactly what purpose you have for masonry anchors and the type of surface you'll be routinely using in order to make the best choices. Whichever type you decide on, always remember that the safety instructions need to be followed and you can always contact the supplier to discuss your business requirements to ensure that you have the right equipment for the job.