Protected: Anchoring Bolts and Rails

Project Prep

Anchoring cement is a pro-grade solution to securing bolts, railings, posts and more to existing concrete. Anchoring cement can be used for anchoring bolts to attach a sill plate, wet-anchoring a railing for a fence/handrail, and anchoring heavy-duty machinery into place. The reason why real pros use anchoring cement instead of regular cement is thanks to its non-shrink properties, high strength, flexibility, and quick-setting.

1. Inspect the Area: Check the stairs or surface where the rail will be installed for any pre-existing holes or areas that need repair. Ensure that the hole is wide enough and deep enough to provide proper support. Diameter of hole should be 3 to 4 times the diameter of the fixture being placed and the depth of the hole must be 8 to 12 times the fixtures diameter.
2. Clean the Holes: Ensure the holes are free of debris – including loose concrete – to eliminate bond breakers. Blow out holes using compressed air or water, making sure to clean the holes thoroughly.
3. Moisten the Holes: Flood the hole with clean potable water and then remove all standing water leaving the hole damp. The surface should be brought to a saturated surface dry condition (SSD).

Mixing

1. Shake Before You Bake: Before mixing, shake the container to fluff up the powder and ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
2. Create the Mix: Start with a 4 to 1 ratio but adjust to a more fluid consistency for easy pouring into the holes.

Application

1. Bolt/Rail Placement: Set the anchor bolt or railing into the hole.
2. Pour the Material: Pour the mixed anchor cement into the hole, ensuring it’s flowable enough to fill the space around the bolt or railing.
3. Vibrate for Consolidation: Use the bolt or rail itself to vibrate the material slightly, eliminating air pockets and ensuring good consolidation.

Finish

1. Secure the Bolt/Rail: Hold or secure the bolt or rail in place until the material sets, which can be quick, especially in warm outdoor conditions.
2. For Anchoring Bolts: Create a Flat Surface: Once the initial set is achieved, use a trowel to create a flat surface around the bolt for a good seal with the sill plate or bracket to be secured.
3. For Exposed Railings: Overfill and Shape: When anchoring a rail, overfill the hole slightly and then shape it into a dome that slopes away from the center, allowing rainwater to disperse out all sides. Note: rail anchors are ALWAYS underfilled, which is a major failure leader with this product.