When you need to secure something—like installing a railing—but the masonry doesn't allow for expansion anchors, a chemical anchor lets you overcome the obstacle safely. For fixing this railing to the pavement, the narrow concrete curb prevents the use of traditional anchors that can ensure a good hold: expansion could cause lateral cracking of the concrete due to the proximity of the holes to the edge of the masonry. The chemical anchor, available at hardware stores, becomes one with the substrate without needing expansion, avoiding this problem.
The diameter of the threaded rod you can use is 6 mm, so to leave room for the chemical, you need an 8 mm hole, which is drilled in two stages to prevent crumbling. The chemical anchor is a two-component product that mixes during extrusion through a nozzle containing a spiral; the first part of the product that comes out should be discarded as it is not homogeneous. After filling, insert the rod while rotating it so that the thread is coated with the anchor. The excess rod is cut off once the fixing has stabilized.
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The railing to be installed is made, in perfect DIY style, entirely from reclaimed materials: 25 mm iron tubing for the structure, 3×20 mm flat iron for the main grid, scrolls recovered from other railings, and 12 mm round bar. The decorations are made from worked plastic shapes, drilled and pressed onto the rods; the spheres are colored golf balls. If you need to buy something, hardware stores have everything you need.
Quick and Precise Steps
- Position the railing perpendicular to the wall to mark the anchor points.
- Transfer the fixing holes to the ground, keeping the plates centered on the concrete curb.
- With a depth guide on the drill, first drill with a 6 mm bit, then with an 8 mm bit.
- For good adhesion of the anchor, clean the holes by removing dust with a vacuum.
- Insert the chemical anchor and threaded rods, and before the anchor sets, fit the railing.
- Once hardened, proceed to add washers and nuts, tightening fully.
Tools Needed
- Measuring tape, straightedge, level, drill, anchor, wrench, threaded rod
- Consider browsing our home improvement collection for quality tools and supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a chemical anchor and when should I use it?
A chemical anchor is a two-component resin that bonds threaded rods or rebar into drilled holes, providing high load capacity without expansion. Use it when mounting railings, heavy shelves, or fixtures on masonry that is cracked, hollow, or near edges where expansion anchors might cause damage. For more DIY solutions, check out our home improvement collection.
Can I install a railing on a concrete curb?
Yes, but you must avoid expansion anchors that could crack the narrow concrete. Chemical anchors are ideal because they bond without expanding. Ensure the curb is sound and clean before drilling. For outdoor projects, explore our garden supplies and outdoor patio furniture to complete your space.
How do I drill holes for chemical anchors?
Drill a hole slightly larger than the rod (e.g., 8 mm for a 6 mm rod) using a depth stop. Drill in two stages: first with a smaller bit, then enlarge to the final size to reduce chipping. Clean the hole thoroughly with a vacuum and brush. For lighting your work area, browse our lighting collection.
What materials can I use for a DIY railing?
Common materials include steel tubing, flat bars, and reclaimed decorative elements like scrolls or golf balls. For a modern look, consider pairing your railing with new outdoor decor or wall decor. If you're also updating your outdoor area, our pergolas and gazebos can provide shade and style.
How long does chemical anchor take to cure?
Cure time varies by product and temperature—typically 20-40 minutes at 20°C (68°F) for handling strength, and 24 hours for full load. Always check the manufacturer's instructions. While waiting, plan your next project with our kitchen islands and carts or dining tables for indoor upgrades.
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For more DIY inspiration, check out our guides on installing shelves, building outdoor structures, and more. Don't forget to explore our collections for sofas, beds, bathroom vanities, rugs, curtains, mirrors, storage benches, desks and work surfaces, office chairs, sheds, greenhouses, BBQ grills and outdoor cooking supplies, outdoor heating, outdoor lighting, TV and entertainment furniture, bookcases and shelving units, display shelving and etageres, nightstands, dressers, and mattresses.
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