5 Most Common Epoxy Anchoring Mistakes

#1 Incorrect Drill Depth and Size

Every anchor has a required depth and size for the threaded rod anchor that provides the required load strength within the concrete

foundation. It’s common for installers to drill too short and not accurately measure the

depth of the hole. Taking the time to measure and accurately drill the hole is the first step in

guaranteeing the anchor will maintain its required value.

#2 Not Properly Cleaned

Concrete dust and small trash can easily block the full embedment depth of the threaded rod anchor. Debris and dust can easily mix

with the epoxy lessening the composition and curing strength of the epoxy. It is important to make sure each hole is brushed and cleaned using compressed air, a hand pump, or dust

blower before installing the anchor. Failing to do so puts the project at risk.

#3 Standing Water in the Hole

It’s common to see standing water on job-sites. Whether it’s caused by natural rain or

from clean-up crews it can easily fill or partially fill a drilled hole. It is required that

the concrete hole is dry before epoxy installation. All water has to be removed

from the hole using a vacuum and/or compressed air prior to cleaning.

#4 Temperature Too Cold

External temperatures can have negative effects on the proper mixing and curing of epoxy. When

installers leave epoxy exposed to external temperature the epoxy can be too cold to properly install. The cartridge temperature has a minimum temperate range for installation. It’s important to

keep the epoxy inside to maintain the required temperature range. To solve this issue, installers will keep epoxy stored inside a job site trailer or

under controlled temperature.

#5 Incorrect Curing Times

Adhesive curing times can vary between 4 and 48 hours, so it’s important to not disturb,

torque, or load the anchor until it is fully cured. It’s common for installers to assume

epoxy curing times. That’s why it’s important to check epoxy curing time tables as per

manufactures recommendations to accurately plan and prepare project timelines

to accommodate curing times.