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Buy Various Concrete Screw Lengths
Buy different lengths so you have the correct screw size on hand. Select one that will penetrate concrete at least one inch. Add one inch to the thickness of the material to determine the minimum length of screw needed. In hard, dense materials like concrete or stone, a one-inch embedment will work fine.
For maximum strength, use longer screws, up to 1-3/4-in. embedment, in soft brick or other less dense materials. You may need to experiment to find the right screw that goes in fully and holds securely.
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Drill the Hole Deep Enough
Holes for concrete screws should be at least 1/4-in. deeper than the screw will penetrate to allow a little extra space for dust accumulation. (See above.)
But it’s not always easy to judge how deep you’re drilling. Too shallow and the screw won’t go in, and drilling deeper than necessary is a waste of time and effort. That’s why most hammer drills come with an adjustable depth stop.
Troubleshooting
If you’re having trouble driving the screw all the way, first make sure the hole is deep enough. If it is and you’re still having trouble, there’s probably too much grit in the hole.
Remove the screw and clean out the hole by running the bit in and out a few times. Try driving the screw again. If it’s still stubborn, back it out and redrive it a few times. If all else fails, install another screw a few inches away. Finally, consider a little shorter screw for the rest of the holes.
Sometimes you’ll have the opposite problem — the screw will spin without gripping. If this happens, the material you’re trying to fasten to is probably too soft or crumbly. Try a longer screw. If you’re using a 3/16-in. screw, try 1/4-inch. You may need a concrete anchor that expands as you tighten the fastener.
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