A concrete fastener is a screw, bolt system, or other fastening technique, designed to attach any non-structural object to a section of concrete. The concrete can be in the ground, or it can be part of a wall or other standing structure. There are an almost unlimited number of uses for a concrete fastener.
Note that concrete fasteners and concrete anchors are structurally and linguistically the same thing, except that the term “fastener” is used when describing non-structural attachments, whereas “anchor” is used when describing ways to hold a building or other structure in place. As you might guess, concrete anchors are much bigger than concrete fasteners.
Concrete fasteners are usually made from galvanized carbon or stainless steel. They are very strong and quite weather-resistant. Galvanization is a process whereby zinc is added to the surface of the fastener via electrostatic plating. The zinc preserves the integrity of the steel, and keeps the elements out. Stainless steel is steel mixed with chromium or some other metal. This keeps the steel corrosion and rust-resistant, and also prevents the steel from staining whatever it is drilled into. The carbon adds a whole new level of strength and insulation from the corrosive effects of concrete.
A concrete fastener can find its way into a myriad of situations, including, but not limited to: countertops, furniture, basements, driveways, fireplace surrounds, foundations and foundation repair, landscape borders, patios, pool decks, and water fountains.
When considering what type of concrete fastener to use for a given job, consider these elements: the hollowness or solidness of the underlying concrete, whether the concrete is outdoors or indoors, distance from corners, bars, and other obstructions.