Master Carpenter Hack: How to Fasten Wood to Concrete with Standard Construction Screws
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- čas přidán 27. 08. 2024
- ATTN: Viewers in Canada now have access to tools used in this video through Amazon.ca to get the low online prices you expect WITHOUT extra import duties, etc! Go to: www.amazon.ca/... to find tools and supplies seen used in this video if you can't find them locally. Purchases made through these links are the same low online prices you expect but Amazon.ca pays small ad fees to Next Level Carpentry which I really appreciate... thank you!!
Fastening wood quickly and securely to concrete is a simple job with this method from my contractor's 'Bag-o-Tricks'. Learn how to use standard construction screws to attach wood (or just about any other material) to any type of foundation wall or concrete/masonry surface with consistent, predictable results!
Focus on the main message here: ANY fastener that strips out when being driven can be made to grab firmly by simply adding a piece of copper wire to the hole! Don't get bent out of shape by the whole 'galvanic reaction' thing... unless the concrete is quite wet it's not a reasonable concern IMHO and you should focus on solving the wet concrete issue first.
These links take you to my Amazon Influencer's page where there's a list of some of the tools I use on this type of project:
DeWalt DWD 520 hammerdrill (Bosch no longer makes the drill I use in the video so I use this one now):
www.amazon.com...
Bosch masonry drillbit set:
www.amazon.com...
Makita 18v brushless cordless drill kit... my favorite!
www.amazon.com...
Clic Readers cheater glasses:
www.amazon.com...
3M Band Style Hearing Protector:
www.amazon.com...
This Amazon page shows a whole bunch more tools I use in the Next Level Carpentry shop and recommend for handling a very diverse range of projects:
www.amazon.com...
Amazon pays small ad fees to Next Level Carpentry from any sales which helps support this channel and is greatly appreciated!
HACK is right Hacks use crap methods like this. Master carpenters use the right materials. They plan ahead and don't say "I don't want to have to get some Tapcons"
Big Thumbs Down
The best thing that happens every time a nitwit like you who absolutely doesn't get it posts a lame comment like yours is that the CZcams algorithm picks up on it and the video gets another 50,000 views by people who do get it... so thank you for outing yourself as an ignoramus for the benefit it has for the rest of us! 😅
Big thumbs up for sure!
NOBODY LIKES YOU!!
People who leave rude comments and play expert online must be lacking something in their life. This wasn't a hack on a Boeing aircraft. Seriously, just fastening a board to comcrete.
This isn't holding a whole house up. It's barely supporting weight. I cuss whoever put up the exposed sheet wall cover at the house I grew up in because the nails pulled right out and I'd have to fix it. The nails were the right thing to use. The method is in question. The result is frustrating. I'd rather replace the rotted sheet and find it was successfully held up with screws and wire than have to repair it because nails pull out.
OK, but if you live in the real world, you'll be asked to fix stuff at your relative's house when visiting them in the middle of nowhere Brasil, or you'll have to fix something your kid broke lest you pay 1000 euros to some cheap Airbnb landlord on an island somewhere. You can open the code book for what screws to use, but this guy shows us what we need to know.
For those of us that never thought they would be doing this type of work as adults and didn't feel the need to listen to our dads when he wanted to teach us these things, I thank you for the very valuable and helpful lessons.
Zip Ties. Drill the hole, stick a zip tie in the hole, clip it off flush, do it again so now there are 2 zip ties in the hole and flush with the wall. Set the screw into the hole and the screw will go between and grab the zip ties and expand right into the concrete and it acts exactly like this as well. Used this method for years and works every time.
Kind of like a poor man version of the toggler anchors. I like it!
Excellent idea.
I like it
ZIP TIES DON'T OFFER THE ADDED STRENGTH OF COPPER AS A BUSHING TO THREAD INTO..............."cheers!"
i like the idea of the additional (soft) metal (copper) better
I LOVE coming across these "could'a had a V-8" slap-forehead videos. I've been doing remodeling for decades, and this simple trick could have easily given me DAYS of my life back. My grandfather (long ago passed away) always used to say about construction "if it holds, it's the right answer". For levity sake, I'll also toss in that my old grand-dad once said after watching an ad for "cordless screwdrivers"... "ALL of my screwdrivers are cordless."
Me , carpenter for 35+ years , this is a good tip from a guy that obviously knows his stuff ...and better still is prepared to take the time out to share his knowledge with others, there will always be detractors and knockers ...funny thing is you don't see these type of people sharing insights into their skillsets because they don't have any ...simple stuff really...shut up or put up , I have decided to subscribe to this channel after seeing this video ..thanks for sharing :)
Really appreciate your viewpoint in this comment Tony. Thanks for subscribing too! I'm pinning your comment to the top of the list for awhile for its straightforward and sensible message. Best, Matt
This is a very reliable method that I've used numerous times in a pinch. You folks posting negative comments obviously have never tried this, first of all, but secondly you don't seem to understand that he's demonstrating a method, not presenting a video for state board scrutiny. A lot of viewers will find this video to be quite helpful. Great job.
Old school tricks, sometimes forget about new modern techniques. Old tricks will never die. Well done sir.
Thanks, Zed Man... School of Hard Knocks is my Alma mater for them 'old school tricks'... I suspect you've earned a degree there too? :-)
agree great job i have often ran out of plugs great idea
I've been doing my own renovations and building most of my life and this is one of the best hacks I've seen. Always been a proponent of tapcons, but this puts an entirely new dimension on fastening to concrete. Thanks for sharing your expertise!
This gentleman knows his craft. I respect his intelligence and confidence. Good job!
I tried this in a project where I am putting in plywood wall in my cement garage. Your trick with the wire works like a champ. Thanks!
He didn't learn this from a university... Thank you sir for your generosity .
You're most welcome lin juan... I sometimes feel like I need a university degree in psychology to deal with some of the crazy comments this video seems to attract! 🙄😎 Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry i agree, colleges don't give you solid foundation on how things work in real life . Thank you for your hard work and patience sharing neat tricks of the trade!
Glad to share tricks of the trade with appreciative viewers like you, @@valpanig ... Thanks for commenting! Best, Matt
This skill was clearly learned in the University of "Hard Knocks". Thanks for sharing..
@@robkocol5664 there's a whole semester course titled "why Pros don't use Rawl plugs" which must be mastered before graduating from the School of Hard Knocks😁😎 Best, Matt
It's in my nature to look for points of failure in EVERYTHING. Safety is paramount. I am impressed with this 'hack'. It has been added to the list. Thank you!
Thanks for recently watching and commenting on NLC videos First Last... much appreciated. Best, Matt
I made a mental note of this video when you first posted it over 2 years ago. I had my first chance to try this method last weekend. Wow! I am amazed at how well it worked. I had to put 6 screws into concrete block and they are really holding. I'm impressed. Thanks Matt.
Glad to hear it PCJ52... no surprise at all to me but I'm pinning your comment to the top for benefit of other viewers, especially those who can't see past a 'plastic plug paradigm' to a much better way. Thanks for watching and commenting on this! Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry Happy to make a tiny contribution.
nice trick. I've always used rebar tie wire. same principle...
Hi I'm a carpenter for over 30 years I must say that is a great tip thank you for this great solution... thank you
I had been a carpenter for probably 15 years when I first saw this trick and have used it ever since... you're most welcome... Best, Matt
Oh my, amazing how many "die-hards" are still out there who fail to see or consider what the offer is. I believe you mention it in your video, that you would first determine what application is required based upon the job at hand. You offered a viable and very workable solution when in a "fix". These "work-arounds" are great when I get a call from the kids to come and fix something around their home and the Hardware store isn't open! Thanks Matt, appreciate the tips and your manner of explanation.
Mark,
I'm quite relieved to learn there's still enough viewers like yourself that are ABLE to see what's being 'offered'! I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody!
Compare the "likes" to "dislikes" - that'll tell you all you need to know to keep doing what you're doing...
I'm a pretty particular kind of guy, as far as quality level goes. I don't like to see shoddy, half-assed work-arounds by semi-skilled (or unskilled) people - and examples abound! But job-tested, ingenious work-arounds by skilled craftsmen are always welcomed and admired. And by the way, your presentation is excellent. Well thought out advice, presented succinctly and understandably. Bravo.
ReRe,
Thanks for your thoughtful and reasoned comment! It's frustrating to get slammed by those, unlike yourself, that 'can't see the forest for the trees' and totally miss the point shown in the video. Bravo backatcha!
Best,
Matt
UGH some Canadian guy just came in here and talked my ear off for ten minutes, then I read your whole comment with a Canadian accent. Sorry man
Hi, I have a handyman business, work as a sole trader, I come across your video last year and I have never tried your technique before until today I run out of wall plugs to secure skirting boards, so I followed your instructions. I was very impressed , very quick and easy and work really well. Absolutely Brilliant. Thank you for sharing 👏
Your video is awesome. For none believers and sceptics, instead of writing negative comments, just give it a go 😁.
I think you just discovered why I have not used a plastic plug for decades in my own custom carpentry business! I do use a lot of tapcons too for certain projects were more strength and corrosion resistance is required but use this method frequently for a wide range of fastening applications... 😎
Thanks for the informative video. I'm not a professional. Just a DIYer that knows my limitations. I'm mounting some wood supports to a cinder block wall in my garage for a folding work bench I built connected with a piano hinge. This was a great mounting method for me to use. I saved myself a trip to the big box TAPCON store and some $$$. Using a heavy duty hand me down hammer drill from my father, along with your excellent tip, made the job pleasurable. Can't imagine how anyone could have any issues with what you're sharing. I'm sure it's just a matter of time before someone criticizes the color of wire you used. Thanks again. Much appreciated.
'criticizes the color of wire' LOL!!! Glad to hear you grasped the tip here and found it useful Paul... nice! Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry "Criticizes the color of wire" LOL indeed.
In the UK however.... That would be COL...Cry Out Loud.
The PC Brigade Zealots over there are running (ruining) the country.
But hey, let's stay positive: No politics here, right?
Hey Matt,
Just wanted to say hey and thanks. It's been a while since I've watched one of your videos, but as a younger carpenter with only 20 years in the trades, I still appreciate the knowledge that you so graciously present to us for no charge. It's unfortunate that so many people come to the comment section with a "hey you're doing this wrong" mentality and verbiage, rather than a "thank you for sharing, what about this?" or "have you tried (insert method), if so what were your results?" attitude. For those who take the time to read this comment, keep in mind that the first come off as an attack, and the other as graciously inquisitive. Which attitude do you think would be better for society to progress further faster? Keep putting yourself out there Matt, and everyone else as well! Just remember that certain approaches to conversations will breed negativity and other will breed growth for all. Cheers!
I'd add two 'hearts' or thumbs ups to your comment if I could Jacksmiles... it just made my day. Inquisitive optimists like you and I will probably always be left wondering when hit with 'hey you're doing this wrong' comments instead of the infinitely more productive 'what about this' ones. As a 'content producer' the most frustrating part is that the most vociferous 'doing this wrong' commenters, when challenged on their own level, are the first to scream 'you're just a hack who can't take constructive criticism'. Truly maddening at times which is the reason I'm going to 'pin' your comment for awhile so others might absorb it's positive, constructive influence. Best, Matt
Great comment!
Thanks guys! Best, Matt
good idea with the wire. would just like to say, depending on climate,it's a a good idea to use treated wood on concrete or masonry. thanks again.
Thanks for adding 'depending on climate' as a qualifier Scott, it's quite true. Always amazes me when some viewers get their undies in a bunch making declarations about 'NEVER use untreated wood on concrete' like treated wood has been around for centuries instead of decades. Go figure?
Best, Matt
GREAT!
"Funny" to see you do this... I used to work for a PHONE COMPANY (not in the USA) and we needed to fasten wood to blocks just like you showed.
We had no dowels handy so I used wires from a 100-pair phone cable -- JUST AS YOU DID !!
This was MANY YEARS AGO -- 1974 to be exact! I am glad to be in same company as you !
BEST !!
Phone cable is often the best because it's so easy to adjust 'grab strength' by adding or removing those tiny wires! I probably didn't learn this trick until around 1989 or so so you beat me to it Al Catraz (great channel name BTW!) Best, Matt
I figured this out by myself. Quite thrilled that A MASTER uses the same method. Made my day sir. Thank you.
This MASTER has been using this little trick since he borrowed it from a fellow tradesman 30 years ago... not sure where he learned it but great minds think alike, right?! Best, Matt
I'm in construction and thank you Matt! It will come in handy in my stucco repair business here in Arizona. Thanks again, Matt!
I've since used this trick for loose screws in door hinges, works well! A year on and still holding!
I did this trick on a number of framing with 14-2 scrap electrical wires and it sure does grab. In some instance I even overkill by adding construction glue to the stud for peace of mind. Good video, thanks for confirming we all need to think outside the box at time!
Ive been fixing bits of wood to masonry walls for 60 plus years starting with timber wedges, lead and fibre plugs etc. and have never had full confidence in more recent methods as it is always dependant on the density and cohesive integrity of the material of the wall.
Ive used all sorts of fillers when a plug wont hold but Ive never thought of using insulated wire which combines plastic and metal.
Brilliant idea ! Just goes to show that there is always a very effective answer to a problem if only you are smart enough to think of it.
Thank you.
Bam! Was just pulling my hair out having a bunch of screws stripping out their holes in block, watched this vid and now I’m gold.
Many thanks.
Ian Brown, timing is everything right?! I really appreciate your comment here which you will better understand if you read some of the negative comments about this simple and effective method.
Best, Matt
Yessir. Works every time, the real beauty is that it can be removed and rescrewed in the same hole. Tapcons are usually one and done.
You know it ethaniel... it even helps 'stripped out' 'one and done' tapcons grab with the right wire size. Best, Matt
@ethaniel bennett I dont know where you are or how many tapcons you have drilled but the ones up here in Canada are very durable, not "one and done". They can be taken out and re-fastened without compromising strength. Tapcons are to code for timber to concrete fastening up here, so that's what we use. Ill admit I have used this technique once or twice in a pinch, but don't prefer it, as it's not up to code. When I do use this technique, I prefer to squeeze a tiny but of epoxy in the hole before I stick the wire in/put the board up. Just as a safety- but really, just buy a box of proper concrete fasteners and charge the client for it. If you are losing bids because the customer doesn't want to pay for the correct type of materials/fasteners, then I'd look for other jobs. Of course, not everyone has that luxury, so you do you boo. *(I do realize this video is for home owners and DIYers. But if you are gonna go through the trouble of making a video, why not teach them how to do it right?)*
@@mattchibi So a tapcon that's driven direct, without an added piece of wire, that doesn't hold as well as one with added wire that won't budge is preferred because "it's not up to code". I'd be curious to see the written code that defines that parameter. My guess is that the pullout/holding power is what code addresses, not how it was accomplished.
I was having a lot of trouble getting Tapcons to work in the brick walls of my daughter's house. I used this method with GRKs and it worked perfectly. Thanks so much for the tip.
Thanks for watching and commenting Edward... this is still one of the most useful 'hacks' I know and use...
Good trick. I've been in this biz for 35+ years myself and I never thought of that but I can easily see how this works. Sometimes even Tapcons can be a little questionable when the hole isn't drill just right and this will fix that too. THANK YOU!
First time I was shown this little hack was for that exact purpose L. Scott: getting tapcons to grab in dicey brick and mortar on an historic building rebuild/repurpose project... been using and adapting it ever since... and it's been like 30+ years. Thanks for watching and commenting here!
@@NextLevelCarpentry Last year used Tapcons on joist hangers mounted on block and just didn't feel totally confident in them so I put a little Gorilla glue in each hole for piece of mind. I would have liked to known this trick. But now I do.
@@L.Scott_Music got to do what you got to do and the good part is not only is this better than Gorilla Glue it's quicker easier and less messy too. 😉😁😎
I actually learned this technique a couple of months ago from an electrician and ive been using this trick since, obviously not for repetitive screwing, but if i had to put in 5 or 6 screws is concrete and i dont have tapcon this is an amazing trick
Well, here ya go. I used this method on an first floor shutter on my house yesterday, & it worked perfectly.
The beauty of this little trick is that I didnt have to buy some over sized cement anchor with a big hex head,
I was able to use the decorative round nose screw that came with the shutter. Probably a 2½ #10.
BTW, those plastic inserts anchors?...they dry rot & pop after time.
This was the easiest fix I've attempted with this shutter (believe me, Ive done battle with
it several times over the years) so Thanks again!
Thanks for sharing that testimony Jim... it's yet another application this method is ideally suited for. Just amazing how simple it is, how well it works... and how much derisive commentary it recieves 🙄 Best, Matt
As Jean-Paul Sartre (never) said, "Hell is a CZcams comments section."
@@TheMrchuck2000 I never would have made such a connection between philosophy and carpentry but you are spot on! Mr Sartre would surely have revised his quote were he still around. Best, Matt
I feel like I need to gather & hoard some vinyl coated electrical wire for home projects now. I have plaster, drywall, cedar shakes, aluminium siding, wood siding, plastic (sheds), plywood (garage), or studs, depending on where on my properties I am working. I have used varying grades of plastic anchors to varying success. This trick sounds like it's going to save me money, time, energy, and trips to the store. Thanks!
Your list of repair responsibilities sounds similar to mine Nathan... good thing about electrical wire; a little bit goes a long way so only minimal 'hording' is necessary. The wad I show in the video is what I keep in a drawer for all sorts of things but I only carry with me a fistfull of pieces about 10" long. Variety is more important than quantity for most impromptu jobs. You also sound like you've got enough experience to know when, where and how to use this to get reliable results. Best, Matt
Done this a ton of times in a pinch when we didn't have the right size tapcons handy! Works fantastic.
I've even used this on something like a door hinge screw that's stripped out, shave a skinny piece of wood to fit in the hole, then put the screw back in. Gives the screw something to bite into again and Tightens it right up.
This is why we have to appreciate our old generations, the amount of knowledge and tricks they have is something that any new guy would think it's stupid or "there are tools for this" the fact is if you happen to be 2 hours away from a hardware store this will save you a whole day. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us.
Great tip. For formwork we always went 3/16ths hole with a piece of tie wire and a 16penny (double head for forms). I've also used 1/4" hole with 1/4 dowel rod and 16penny. The dowel rod would prevent spalling the surface of finished floors
I’ve used this method many times. It also works well with heavy weed wacker line. As with any ‘trick’ one must use some common sense to determine when it’s use is appropriate. Good job.
Great comment Robert... and I like your weed whip twine suggestion! Thanks. Best, Matt
Yup, that's the way I've done it for decades. I keep some standard 14 gauge (from house wiring) in the tool box and have 3/16" and 1/4" Bosch Bluegranite concrete drill bits available to fit my #10 or #12 or even #14 screw shanks. I don't try to match the bit size to the shank size too carefully; when I insert the piece of wiring, it takes up the slack completely. Also the extra length of the Bosch drill bits allow me to drill right through the wood and then into the concrete with the same bit so that I don't need to remove and replace the wood again. If I don't even have wiring and screws in the toolbox, I'll just drill a hole and hammer in two nails or spikes at the same time, it holds. Nice work.
Thank you!! At my home, the screws were no longer holding the plywood against the cinder block (stripped). Based on this video, I removed the screws, inserted some scrap wire, and screwed back down. Now, it's tight and solid. Great video!!
Sounds like a perfect application where this little trick really works!
Thanks for letting me add other viewers know of your success...
Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry Thanks Matt! Worked perfectly.
Absolutely amazing, thank you for making this video. I decided to make built-in shelves in the basement laundry room. A coworker suggested using a powder actuated tool, and just like you said they are very unpredictable and tempermental. Luckily I found this video searching for alternative ways to fasten wood to concrete. Thanks again, you the man!
Projects like yours are the main reason I did this video Ryan... should work like a charm! Best, Matt
Now THAT is a brilliant trick - which I will swipe! I have never had good luck with TapCons and lead anchors require such a big hole. Thanks so much for sharing.
Welcome to the Club! You've had the same revelation I did decades ago. Your biggest challenge going forward is dealing with the 'rawl plug zealots' who never will understand that there's a better way 😉😎
Best, Matt
Thank you for the time taken to show another method
I’m sure that you could have done other pleasant things the time you sacrificed to do the vid .There are a lot of ingrates out there and the orthodoxy of others just points out how limited people are.After 30 years of bath and kitchen remodeling I realized that it’s always something to learn not only from the new methods and materials but from the past.I can learn even from the stupid how not to do things
Thanks again for all and don’t be discouraged “dogs bark the caravan keeps going “
Thanks for your comment on this video John... I get the sense that you're a 'man in the arena' that Theodore Roosevelt lauded... always a pleasure to meet such a man! Best, Matt
Bloody brilliant idea. This has just demolished my 30 plus years of pissing about with rawl plugs, I’ve got the drill, I’ve got the screws and I’m pretty sure I’ve got the wire. Thanks for a great video, you now have one more subscriber!
I was a good 15 years in before I learned this trick but still remember having a similar eureka moment when I was shown this trick... so you're quite welcome.... and thanks for the sub! Best, Matt
Strong man, a proper old.school worker, no steroids, just work, stamina. Good explainer, not seen that technique before. I,ll try it out.
Thanks for that assessment Andrew I hope you like this method when you try it out.... Best, Matt
I had watched this about 2 weeks ago and filed it away as a useful tip. Sure enough I needed this exact "hack" a couple of days later. Thanks!
Get used to it, David, I predict this will happen with increasing frequency... happens to me all the time!😁😎 I can't count the number of times I've reached for a one of the short pieces of wire I keep in my fastener caddy. Best, Matt
im 58 and still learning!!! Thank you
Cool trick. I'm an electrician in Europe where nearly everything is brick or concrete and we use boatloads of plastic anchors. Every now and again the brick will crumble or you drill into soft mortar and the anchor won't hold. I'll have to try stuffing some wire in there and see how that goes. In the old days, they would pound a wooden dowel in the hole then screw into that. What I can say about plastic anchors is that only good quality ones are useful. The cheap ones that get delivered with light fixtures and the like are garbage. For mounting heavier items in concrete, I LOVE masonry screws. Big stuff on brick, epoxy anchors, like Hilti HIT. Love seeing other peoples little tricks to get the job done. Thanks.
I was going to say YOU are some NEXT LEVEL professional, then I saw THAT is actually your on line title!! LOL Thank you.
Have you ever read "Zen and the and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance"? You are one of the characters on the MC trip.
Like me you adapt to what's on hand to finish the job, while the other men would never vary the status quo. This man would make sure he had the "correct" expensive brand name fasteners because he has no inner confidence that anything else would work. I have done exactly what you have done with the same confidence you have. I can't do this in front of the other type man because doing so will trigger his inner fears. Fears that can cause panic within his insecure soul. Thanks again, you are a Man after me own heart. Griffin
It's not what you got but how you use it, right!
TreeStump... This dialog is like 'Angie's List' in reverse... gives contractors a heads up about which customers they don't want to work with! Grind on, sir!
LAST SATURDAY I MADE $ 700 GRINDING STUMPS I CALL THEM GOLD NUGGETS MADE OUT OF WOOD!!!😀😀😀😀😀 I LOVE STUMP GRINDING!!!😀😀😀😀😀😀
What a cool comment, haha. I have to check that book out
Zen and the Art of motorcycle maintenance.. it's a classic, read it several times, philosophy, and basic usable real world bike tech .. brilliant!
To all the "Gene Mean's and Dustin Morris's" out there: Whilst it's "fun" to watch and read how everyone's nose gets bent outta shape, please read the heading.. Matt described a "hack". In my world, a hack is something you do when you don't have all the "right" stuff at hand and you need to get a job done. Matt did state (0:33) that the correct way would be to use "tapcons" specifically suited to the purpose... Further, I believe your "building codes" would also dictate what is acceptable or not... just sayin'...
Matt congrats on achieving 10K subscribers! Happy to say I'm one of them..
Mark,
Thank you for wading into the fray and making such a resolute statement on my behalf and that of common sense. I assure you it's a statement of solidarity that I don't take for granted. Earning your congratulations at the 10k milestone motivates me to continue the effort to build Next Level Carpentry with content that attracts an audience of like-minded individuals to the benefit of all!
Best regards,
Matt
And at 44 seconds mark the laziness response " I don't want to go through the time or the expense" when he should have had the tapcons in his bag. look how much wire he's carrying, I think he could afford 5 screws in his bag, he's using a masonry bit anyway come on man. he needs common sense, not the fastest way out.
markforrestsm o
Yo, Brady, What does affordability have to do with anything? Granted, it's a clever and subtle diversion away from the main message shown in the video... but missing the message doesn't do much to establish whatever point you're trying to make. I suggest you re-watch the video a few times and take studious notes. Maybe after a few runs through it you'll catch up... and then if you still insist on dissing the idea then just let it go.
What, go to bed early and miss the late night comedy show starring Brady McClanahan? NO WAY, dude! (at least I got you to laugh, didn't I? :-)
My Grandad was a joiner and used a similar method using slithers of wood, after drilling the hole he would tap in a slither of wood filling the hole within the ID and fix through the wood to make the strong joint, the wire idea I like for convenience but both work well, thanks for the idea and I will use in the future.
Thank you so much! Just used this for securing some shelves down in my basement. I could not believe how well it worked. Certainly better than most inserts.
Glad to hear it... sounds like the perfect application for this 'hack' Nun Ya... thanks for taking the time to comment to let me know! Best, Matt
Thanks for this great video! Since I only need to do a few holes, it was hard to justify the cost of getting special fasteners, hammer-drill, etc. Now I can accomplish the task with what I already have, thanks to you!
You saved my day. I was struggling to fix a timber board to the concrete wall. After drilling holes and putting nylon plugs, I lost how to find the holes behind the board ie out of my view. I just googled and found this video. Works very well.I used garden pvc coated wired which came into my signs in the garage. Thanks for sharing.
Yours is the EXACT situation that convinces me that there's a much better way than using those miserable little plastic plugs tkatsk! You're welcome! Best, Matt
It might take a little fussing to figure out what fastener, drillbit and wire size to use but I'm certain it will work well for your Just Think... good luck! Best, Matt
I usually slice a piece of composite or green treated wood and put like a sliver in the hole. Some copper strands... should work for at least 10 years. I like it, I wouldn't use it in a shower, or on an exterior wall unless of course no one was watching and it wasn't my house. Definitely a bad ass tip!! Will definitely be using in my future.
This is a great tip! Thank you. You saved me the Tapcon screw cost and another trip to the hardware store.
Matt the great
Long time no see
I wish you are good.
I tried this method on a kitchen installation job,when I ran out of the wall plugs at the end of the day.I hope the last two cabinets hung with this method will not fall later.
Thank you again.
You're welcome Mehran... if you were attaching kitchen cabinets to a concrete/masonry wall and used this method for the last two cabinets (and did it properly) I'll put all my money on the last two cabinets staying in place over any installed with plastic wall plugs! Best, Matt
Thanks for sharing! Some of the other comments here also expand on the concept of what we can do in a pinch to get these stringers up. I've had a lot of issues in the past dealing with decayed stone walls, crumbling cement etc. I think sometimes we need to try different methods to get the job done, and the bigger bag of tricks we have the better. Hats off to you sir, on getting so many comments on this video; all publicity is good publicity in this regard.
Learn English, I appreciate your appreciation😊 also commiseration on dealing with some of the outlandish controversial comments. The fact that sensible viewers like you get it is a huge part of what sustains my motivation to build a CZcams channel... without it I think the trolls and knot heads would wear me down to the point I just give up. Best, Matt
I saw something by a guy who got advice from a expert on you tube channel business.It seems that for the algorithm ,dislikes, stimulate whatever it is that gets you more exposure.
For me, occasionally following these 'conversations, a witty or imaginative input is far more entertaining than the to and fro of 2 people getting uppity with each other.
A nice mix of facts and humo(u)r probably works well.
That's the sweet irony of all the troll comments on this video Ian: every time one vehemently screams 'this video needs taken down' the view count and, proportionally, revenue from ads, goes up as a result of the algorithm. Don't tell the trolls that though, OK? Best, Matt
You sir, are a REAL carpenter. Just your manner of solid delivery and confidence in your method tells it. This trick just made my day. Everything you said makes sense. I have a project that needed just this hack. I didn't even need to wait til the end to like and subscribe. Thank you so much.
I've never used wire, but toothpicks and things like that also work well when the screw strips out. The reason he had to redrill the third hole was because the board moved a little after drilling the first two holes so the third hole wasn't quite in the right place in relation to the first two holes.
Essential craftsman channel recommended your channel. Saying you know your stuff. I can already tell he was not exaggerating. Can't wait to learn from your channel.
Thanks for letting me know, Christopher... and for following up on Scott's recommendation. I'll do my best to be worthy of so high a compliment. It will be no surprise to you that most aspirations I have for Next Level Carpentry parallel what Scott and Nate have achieved at Essential Craftsman... they set a very high, respectable and honorable bar for CZcams, one that I strive to reach. I hope to get a chance, someday, to have a 'tailgate chat' with the man... Best, Matt
Next Level Carpentry agreed. Scott certainly knows his stuff as well. It's people like the two of you bringing respect back to trade work. There is nothing more fulfilling that creating something from nothing. Between you both. People are able to see the respect a true craftsman deserves. Im a traditional joiner and a carpenter and watching your videos absorbing the I do is a indispensable tool for me. Not many craftsman on par with you and Essential craftsman in my area.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts here (and at Essential Craftsman) Scott, you're a key part of the whole CZcams economy in providing insight, interaction, feedback, respect and appreciation for content producers... those things are pretty much the 'coin of the realm' in CZcams-land and are greatly appreciated.
'Traditional joiner and a carpenter' are the core of work I like most and I'm sure you understand the satisfaction it provides (the fulfillment you mention). This NLC video and a few others are more contractor-oriented than carpentry oriented so I hope you find a little time to watch the Cutting Wide Coves video and others where there's sawdust instead of metal filings and sheetrock dust 😁 Best, Matt
I know I'll probably wont do any of these things but it's always a pleasure to watch a pro kick ass doing a great job...
Best hack I've seen in a long time. I work in security and electronics and have to put up strapping or plywood on masonry all the time to hang my panels and equipment, and I am invariably always looking for the right anchors for the job. As I always have scrap wire in my van I doubt I'll ever by anchors again.
Yours is an ideal application for this method Derrick... congrats for seeing this hack for what it is rather than being distracted by those who just don't get it and leave negative comments. BTW 'communications wire' is some of the best type to have on hand because you can quickly add or remove the number of pieces needed for optimum 'grab'. Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry Matt I used this trick the other day to put up pegboard and french cleats through 1" styro insulation onto block in my storage locker, worked like a charm. Awesome hack! Thanks.
Take it from a retired carpenter of 40 years, This method works very good. Use a three sixteenths masonry bit with a common drywall screw (whatever length) . Hint: If going in concrete block, try to hit the web of the block. Also common tie wire works good.
Thank for your comment John... there's a lot of variations to this method depending on conditions and task at hand. The only thing I'd add is that common drywall screws are so 'brittle' that I don't use them for attaching wood since they snap so easily and I don't like digging them out with vise grips and re-screwing. But that's just me... with 40 years of carpentry under your tool belt you're the one who makes that choice.
Best, Matt
I just used this technique and WOW. Thank you so much!
Kind of amazing, right Jeremy? Always makes me chuckle when trolls comment about off-topic parts of this video and miss the main point! Glad you didn't get distracted by them and were able to capitalize on the 'hack'... Best, Matt
This is a fantastic hack! I just had a job putting up big 5x3 mirrors on a cinderblock wall, and using this trick the screws went in tight every time.
Pretty amazing how good it works for how simple it is, right?!
Best, Matt
This is a very old craftsman trick I saw my Dad do when I was a young boy, but I forgot about it until I watched your video. Thanks for reminding us all. Cheers from Canada.
Great trick. I've used match sticks in holes in concrete to set in screws when we lived in China in an apartment with concrete walls, but the wire looks a lot better.
Thanks a lot.
I think you'll appreciate the difference if you get a chance to try it. Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry The old match stick trick is still a good one when you run out of wall plugs/rawlplugs.....This is a tip i will always remember thank you.
In the meantime, a rival contractor is trying to figure out who stole the engine wiring harness from his truck...
Robert Korn 😂😂😂
lmao
If you saw a union bug on his tools, I'd say hey!
who cares, job done
lol!
FANTASTIC!!! Never thought about the Wire fill Idea and didn't think Standard Screws were strong enough to go the distance. in a Tub Enclosure Thank You so much for Sharing this-:).
Don't get distracted by the fact that I demonstrated this technique in a 'tub enclosure' area, OK? Make sure you choose fasteners of the right type and strength for the project you're doing. The wire part only makes it so whatever screws you choose grab well. 😁😎
Old school verses new tech. I`ll take old school any day. Great to see someone still uses the tricks of the trade .
First time watched N subscribed.Solving the problems on the spot is an excellent quality of a professional even if it is temporary. Thanks for sharing your years of experience with the world. May God help you brother.
Thanks, Matt. I wish I knew this trick/method when helping a couple build a new deck last year…on top of an incredibly sturdy 80-year old concrete pad! After killing too many ”blue screws,” we switched to concrete anchors, but this would have been faster, easier, and equally effective for our purposes.
I really appreciate how how you explain your process - not only the how, but more importantly the why. I’m a new subscriber and am sure I’ll be back here often…and if there are ads to click, I’ll click them generously! 😊
I apprenticed for 4yrs under a "Master Cabinetmaker" from Austria. His formal training lasted 12 years then he moved to the US where he worked for 30yrs when i signed on. I have met 2 "Master" carpenters in my life. It's a big mantle to claim.
And?
finally...a use for the short pieces of wire we usually toss! effin clever. we've all done the matchstick/golf tee in the hinge hole so we're all shaking pour heads and asking why we didn't think of this! good old youtube
Good trick, one I'd forgotten. We used tie wire and 16d nails back before everyone had cordless drills.
Wow , I never heard of this before ,I will be giving this a try
Today I have learned something thank you sir
You're welcome Carlos... I think you'll be surprised by how simple and useful this little trick is. Best, Matt
I have a DeWalt parts box of just masonry attachment parts. Tapcons Redhead pin-lead spreaders etc. Have some short scrap wire from an LED install. Now I know where to put them. This is a work around that many people wouldn't even think of.
Just used this in my 1950s Baltimore city bathroom. Couldn't get tapcons to grab into the block wall, remembered seeing this a few years ago and tried it. and it worked perfectly. This saved my butt thanks. I was thinking about floating the whole wall with mud or something silly
Projects like yours are poster-perfect for applying this so I'm glad you saw and remembered it for what it is! I lost count of all the times this has saved my butt over the years and always glad to hear when others 'get it' and benefit! Best, Matt
The bloody band-aid on his finger guarantees you this is an actual expert.
I wasn't aware that being an expert insured you never nicked your hands. Ever look at the hands of a live long tradesman? Real men.
@@exnjute I'm not being sarcastic. I'm a plumber with 31 years of experience. My hands are cut multiple times a week, my pants are dirty everyday. I am an expert.
Buy a new saw, it will find your hand, fact.
An expert doesn’t have time for bandaids. They use electrical tape! 🤣
@@exnjute another tool here
Awesome video! I'm a contractor and love your vids! Don't worry about the haters. There's an excess of people just looking to get angry. I think this is an awesome trick!
Thanks Kyle, considering where you're coming from your comment is really appreciated! The 'haters' (online equivalent of sidewalk superintendents) tend to be a real distraction, especially when they make assumptions from obvious lack of experience. Hope you get a chance to check out a few other Next Level Carpentry videos... as a contractor you might find particular interest in the BS 1000 Board Stretcher video and the 'Build These Super Strong Sawhorses' with it's surprising load bearing stress test at the end.
Best, Matt
Many many thanks., I am not a home "handy-man" but retired mechanical maintenance and I know stuff goes wrong. I've also had problems with tapcons stripping out of cinder block and I;ve been reluctant to forge into installing hand rail in the bath. Now with this approach I feel confident I can have a secure install.
I have done this trick with nails and screws more than once and never have I had a problem.
Nice tip! Things like this come in useful, especially on a Friday afternoon 😂
Reading these comments makes me a little sad. This carpenter is giving you a great hint here. I'm a retired Union Carpentry, and for ones who don't know what that is, it's carpentry mostly involving building forms for concrete. I've drilled thousands of holes, usually only worried about hitting rebar, but for the residential carpenter the trick given here is damn good one. I wonder how many jobs and years on the job the people giving these lame comments here have been on. These tricks come from years and years on the job, not your common garage carpenter. Just listen and try to grasp what a craftsmen is trying to say instead of thinking you know better. Concrete is basically rock, and the only way to drill into it is to have a drive that hammers while it is drilling. They came out with a rotohammer back in the 80's that was engineered to hammer more times a second than the ones made before it. It worked great. On the big job sites we had all the name brand rotohammers and this one was the trick for 1/4" drilling, but if you got bigger, and we'd drill up to 3/4, or even 1" holes you need a Milwaukee similar bigger roto. Point being here is that no matter how many times the hammer is hitting the drill, the hole is going to be bigger than the drill size because it's fricken rock and the constant hitting is enlarging the hole. So to feed a copper wire with a vinyl coat is a perfect idea for filling up the part of the hole that got enlarged over the size of the bit. Concrete blocks are a fine grade mix that doesn't have rock aggregate bigger than a very small pebble so the hole should be pretty tight, but when you drill normal concrete with bigger aggregate the drill bit has more chance to bounce around enlarging the hole.
A sincere thank you, Jerry, for the time you spent commenting on this video. The most encouraging thing about the part that 'makes you a little sad' is that 4,700 others agree with you and I compared to just 372 to make us sad. Guess the minority go through life fighting off good ideas in an effort to convince themselves they're right. The hard part for us is to just sit back and let 'em, right? Congrats on your carpentry career and making it through to retirement with enough wherewithall to enjoy it and share your insight and experience! Best, Matt
I was union too. Thousands of holes in concrete. This video was a waste of my time. Paragraphs... are your friend.
As is your comment...
"I am lazy." Tapcon first would hold up in a wet location for alot longer. But better yet. Why doesnt he use proper bolts for concrete. Galvanized ones at that. Dont praise people for not feeling like getting the proper hardware.
Well Samantha, tell me just how YOU, a viewer of a video and totally disconnected from the work being done in it, believe your judgement is sound as to just what is 'proper hardware' yet chastise others by stating 'don't praise people...'? Profound.
Brilliant. A no-nonsense solution to an everyday problem. Huge Thumbs Up.
Thanks for your affirmation PM... much appreciated! Best, Matt
Practical, useful advice (as always from you). Yes, well worth having this tip in my bag of tricks when I can’t find (or don’t have) the right Tapcon for the job. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for this tip it has changed my life. Real strong i tried it and it is rock solid
Simply amazing, isn't it bol8lod? It 'changed my life' 30 years ago when I first learned it and I've been thankful ever since... Best, Matt
I've seen a lot of old anchors that were made of a piece of wood cut off the corner of a 2x4. The wire of different gauges is an excellent idea. And for all the people who say that only tapcons work, I have a question.. What do you do when they spin out and strip?? This video is the answer.
You GOT it, Wientz... no surprise to me but some will be convinced you're 'drinking the cool aide' with such a sensible opinion of this method. Thanks for your comment! Best, Matt
Finally, someone who really knows what he's talking about. Subscribed.
Welcome aboard, Leny... I really try to focus on content over hype on the Channel. Hope you find value in other content here!
As a union carpenter, I can appreciate this "hack". On a daily basis, we anchor wood to concrete for formwork, where strength is paramount.....literally hundreds of times a day with a 3/16" bit, a 16d nail, and a piece of tie-wire. Cheap, fast, and holds like you can't believe.
Very good 'trick'. I install hundreds of tapcons and occasionally have one that doesn't grab properly. I'll try this on those too instead of trying to ram a sliver of wood into the hole.
You're a smart guy Hue Janus (😂😂😂) stripped out Tapcons are the first application I learned for using the wire method... you'll find it works like a charm! It was only later that I started adapting it to regular construction screws, etc. You'll find it stronger and quicker than finding and using slivers of wood since once you find the right wire size/type it's infinitely repeatable. Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry Sometimes I run across 80 year old concrete that is so hard that even pre drilled and blown out the Tapcons strip. A bit of wax or other lubricant is one preemptive move that has served me well.
@@jonwikan3986 Yeah, there's some tuff old stuff out there... ever wonder what the actual p.s.i. of that stuff is?! It's got to be incredible! I like your wax tip... makes a lot of sense and must keep screws from binding and snapping too? Thanks for watching and commenting! Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry , I also wonder how strong that stuff is? No rebar in my foundation but probably 8" thick (1953) Below grade, and lt has a lot of aggregate. I think it cured slowly below grade. When took out my basement slab and re poured with self consolidating concrete over 2 inch rigid insulation board, drainage gravel etc.. for the hydronic heated slab. They said it would end up at 8,000 PSI after say 30 days. I flooded that basement with water for a week and it was really rough pre drilling for a dividing wall even early in the curing process. Hammer drill is needed, as you said to avoid burning up the bit. or, add lots of lubricant but wow a regular drill takes a long time to drill a hole in hard concrete. When I ran out of wax on the old walls, WD-40 used liberally seemed to work as well. Just to get any grit out and to lubricate the pre drill hole. A quick tip for those using expanding threaded anchors, which are great, when they(instructions) say don't use in brick or cement block, it is true, Don't do it. Use the wire or lead anchor with a lag bolt solution. The expanding wedge anchors(such as Hilty) are for solid concrete only. I did a test and they will snap bricks and concrete block into pieces. The lead anchors are soft enough to handle a lag bolt and not break your brick or block.
@@jonwikan3986 I enjoy hearing from viewers who've 'been there'... thanks! BTW Have you ever tried these in lieu of expanding anchors: czcams.com/video/55mZwWkRX7c/video.html I've not used an expanding anchor since 'discovering' LDT's years ago. Best, Matt
Great tip, thanks! I need to fasten PVC trim on the outside of concrete in some areas of my project. I'll be using cortex hidden fasteners w/plugs where the backing material is wood but was looking for a solution where I'll need to attach to concrete but would still like to be able to use the same fastener/plug, this idea will work perfectly!
Your's situation is one of the main reasons I did this video John... glad to know you realized it. Note: do a little experimenting with drillbit and wire size to find the right combination for maximum holding power vs snapping screws or stripping them adjusting either or both until you get it.... should work like a charm! BTW this is the method I use for attaching trim to interior brick and/or concrete walls because it's very adaptable for GRK torx drive trim screws too. Best, Matt
This is the difference between a pro from a weekend joe. Excellent video.
I love old school tactics that simply work and have flexible applications. I came here with one question and your video opened the door to many solutions! Thank you very much! Wish i could leave 1,000 likes for this.
A comment and a 'like' is enough kidphilly... thanks! Best, Matt
Matt, you'd have made a great marine engineer. We often have to make repairs on the high seas, in emergency situations and not necessarily with the mfr. certified parts. Safe, expedient and effective repairs are paramount. Believe it or not, you can’t just jump in the car and go to the Home Depot. Amazon doesn’t even deliver out there! I love your wire hack on so many LEVELS. In the past, when the tp has stripped, I’d hope to find a longer tp and/or bit in my kit, drill the hole deeper and then hand screw the tp in gingerly trying to avoid another strip. And those plastic tubes NEVER pull out with the flick of a pry bar during demo, right? I’d venture to guess that when moments and forces are calculated, over half the installed tps are in sheer with little tensile force required. Whatcha gonna do when that tp bit wears down and starts drilling holes too small, and your helper just broke the spare? I'm so glad that blue tp coating never grinds off when feeding into concrete or those things would have rusted away by now.
Watching your other comprehensive vids where you tend to go over and above the “good enough," it would be a safe bet that you know the codes inside and out, and you wouldn’t use deck screws in an inappropriate situation. I existed in a wet, corrosive environment with machinery and fabrications of numerous different metals in contact. I can attest the copper and steel is fine in most household locations. Were you planning on keeping that hack immersed in salt water?
I remember the day
They invented pressure treat.
All the wood rotted away
If it contacted concrete.
And every hard cut nail,
Immediately disintegrated
And surely did fail
When the tap con was created.
Those wannabe chemists
With their electrolytic analysis
Must have had their brains frozen
With galvanic corrosion.
Wish they’d contain
Their eletroNegativity
Inside their own rusty brain
Chemistry.
Sometimes you gotta
Think outside the Big Box;
Listen to the Professa
From the school of hard knocks.
Hope you made it through
This lengthy epistle.
The verse coulda been worse...
I didn’t whistle.
My new favorite comment for this controversial video... thanks Francis! Crazy thing is some will read this and STILL miss the point! For some, no explanation is necessary... for others, no explanation is possible, right? Best, Matt
Legendary! The Walt Whitman of swinging a Hammah!
Hey Matt, I have just read through all the comments. Wow! I just wanted to say I have used this trick for about 30 years with no problems. If it was a concrete wall instead of cinder block a bent nail would work also but it wouldn't be as easy to remove later.
Thanks for the vids,
Dan
Hey Dan, thank you SO MUCH for your reassuring/confirming words and taking the time to read some of the comments! Some of them really drive home the point of the old saying 'no good deed goes unpunished', right? I'm not above driving a bent nail for certain applications either... has everything to do with a carpenter's assessment of the requirements for the task at hand along with a whole list of other considerations, each one drawn from decades of work 'in the trenches'... Best, Matt
I for one appreciate every bit of the education that you provide here..I have learned a great deal..!! and anyone who doesn't and spews out negativity about this channel..they are not worth the time to even respond to...Thank you for posting all of your hard work and your wealth of knowledge and experience...
Never thought of the wire in the hole thing. Seems so simple and like common sense now that I've seen that..learned something new. Ty
That's exactly the sort of little hack that this is... so simple yet so effective! Best, Matt
Never tried wire myself. And i remember time ago we didn't even have concrete screws. So it was either store anchors or self made wood ones. Screw and just a few matches filling the hole would hold a kitchen cabinets for many years, until removed, no problem.
Glad to know there's others 'out there' who remember the days before tapcons Fig Vam... those that don't can't seem to accept the fact that this is a very strong and useful method... especially if you get to try wire instead of matchsticks. Best, Matt
We use to do something similar in the old days we called pinch nailing. Where you drill a hole and pound 2 nails in the hole at the same time. Tapcons are used mostly now days.
Never heard it called 'pinch nailing' but I clearly remember when it was popular. I was bewildered from disbelief when I first saw Tapcons available! The concept of a fastener cutting threads in concrete? Astounding! Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry It may be slang for the process in Florida. LOL..As you know Many terms are used in different areas of the country to define the same item or process. We call the rocks or bricks put under steel rebar to keep them from touching the ground ( hog apples). We call side cutter linesman ( Kleins ). We call the twist tool for doing steel ties a ( pigs tail) and the list goes on... lol
Gotta love territorial jargon from the building trades ball boy... 'hog apples' are new to me but 'pigs tail' is all to familiar and one I try to forget! Do you remember fuzz-board (Celotex sheathing) and how about 'beaver board' or 'wafer board' for OSB? A guy I worked with always made me laugh when he said he needed a driblitt for making holes... had to be there I guess? Best, Matt
@@NextLevelCarpentry Yes, we do love making up great slang terms for our tools and materials in this profession. Lol
@Next Level Carpentry
Wonder if I could have some info on the 'Beaver Board".......just interested that's all.....no rush....I'm getting on a bit and my ' Hog Apples" are nearly touching the floor. :)
Awesome technique. Thanks for sharing. Ignore the trolls. They're upset because they don't have the skills you have and the courage to start a YT channel.
Ignoring trolls is more difficult than it should be but comments like yours sure make it possible so thanks for watching and commenting! Best, Matt
Brilliant old fashioned way of doing things - In my eyes the BEST! People of this generation have NO clue in life. Always best to learn from the older generation....
I've always appreciated stuff I learned from the older generation before I was included in it chana100red! Best, Matt
Alot of them dont like to teach. :/ grateful for this guy. Its a rare occurence.