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Full Specification

Type

Concrete Screw (Tapcon)

Diameter

3/16"

Available Lengths

1-1/4", 1-3/4", 2-1/4", 2-3/4", 3-1/4"

Pilot Hole Diameter

5/32"

Pilot Hole Depth

1" min (embedment + 1/4")

Embedment Depth

1" minimum, 1-3/4" maximum

Recommended Torque

Driven, not torqued

Compatible Substrates

Concrete, Brick, CMU block (solid face)

Load Rating

150 lbs tension, 180 lbs shear safe working load — Ultimate: 600 lbs tension / 720 lbs shear — Ultimate values in 2000 PSI concrete (Confast). Allowable calculated at the industry-standard 4:1 safety factor. — Block is much weaker than concrete: 340 lbs ultimate (85 allowable) in medium-weight block, 220 (55 allowable) in light-weight block.

Material

Carbon steel (blue), Stainless steel (silver)

Removable

Yes

Best For

✓Electrical boxes
✓Door frames
✓Light fixtures
✓Sill plates
✓Furring strips

Not For

✗Hollow block cavities
✗Structural loads
✗Overhead applications without engineer approval

How a Tapcon Grips

Tapcon-style concrete screws cut their own threads directly into the base material, which is why the pilot hole is smaller than the screw's nominal diameter: the threads need solid material to bite into. Drill the hole too large and the threads have nothing to grip; too small and the screw strips or snaps during driving.

Installation Tips

1.Always use a 5/32" carbide Tapcon bit — standard bits won't create proper thread engagement

2.Drill 1/4" deeper than the screw length to avoid bottoming out

3.Do not reuse holes — threads cut into concrete are damaged on removal

4.Use stainless steel Tapcons for exterior applications

Frequently Asked Questions

What size drill bit does a 3/16" Tapcon need?

Use a 5/32" carbide masonry bit, drilled to 1" min (embedment + 1/4").

How much weight can a 3/16" Tapcon hold?

150 lbs tension, 180 lbs shear safe working load. Actual capacity depends on base material strength and embedment — verify against the manufacturer's ICC-ES ESR data for structural work.