Basement wall question

[Booze Hound]

Hi guys-

Hi guys-

I searched for info in previous posts but really couldn't find anything that answered my question, so here goes:

I am new to basements and want to build a workbench and plan to build it against a concrete basement wall.

It may sound dumb, but can I drill into this wall to hang 2x4's (or 2x6's) using Tapcons or Red Head fasteners without causing any structural issues down the road?

I just don't want to jeopardize my foundation walls in any way. Or find out later I shouldn't have done so.

(you did what? Drilled into your foundation walls? What were you thinkin'?)

Don't think it's an issue but figured it's better safe than sorry.

Thanks in advance. And no laughing!

 

[tcianci]

Drill away! It may be best to fasten only pressure treated lumber to the concrete walls although since there is minimal surface area contact between the framing lumber and the concrete, it's not like it's going to get all funky on you and rot. If you do use the treated lumber, be sure to use fasteners that are rated for the chemical treatment of the wood.

 

[napaAl]

You should be able to. I use Simpson anchor epoxy along with wedge anchors in my 1930's concrete foundation.

 

[Booze Hound]

Thanks guys, for the replys.

Will probably go and purchase a hammer drill and materials later this week and start the build sometime soon.

 

[egads74]

I would also paint behind with UGL DRYLOK before the cabinet... In fact I would do the whole basement.

 

[K'ledgeBldr]

...against a concrete basement wall.

Block or poured?

Block has it's own unique 'characteristics'.
The main thing about poured- check the thickness. You don't want to rupture the waterproofing membrane.

 

[Booze Hound]

Block or poured?

Block has it's own unique 'characteristics'.
The main thing about poured- check the thickness. You don't want to rupture the waterproofing membrane.

The wall is poured concrete. I cannot really tell how thick it is, but I was able to visit some new construction sites around town and the walls I saw there were 8 - 10 inches thick; I am guessing my wall is similar thickness. It supports a 2 story house so it has to be fairly thick.

I would also paint behind with UGL DRYLOK before the cabinet... In fact I would do the whole basement.

Not familiar with the UGL DRYLOCK but will look into it. There is no moisture coming through so far as I can tell but putting in some kind of moisture barrier is probably not a bad idea

 

[NUTTSGT]

I'd have no problemm tapconning to my basement wall, if it wasn't field stone. Idid tap con to my garage wall when I did my refurb for the bench.

 

[Booze Hound]

I'd have no problemm tapconning to my basement wall, if it wasn't field stone. Idid tap con to my garage wall when I did my refurb for the bench.

Cool. I have read about both red heads and Tapcons (and will probably use them) as I think red heads may be overkill for what I am doing. Never used either but have read good things about both.

Thanks for the input.

 

[jvitez]

I've broken Tapcons by applying too much torque as it stuck into rock I skived when drilling the hole, the head just snapped off. Are you going to be hammering on the workbench? If so, Tapcon's may be a bit too brittle. I'd use a pressure treated 2X4 or 2X6, and use a powder actuated fastener, ie Hilti/Ramset. Their nails should be stronger in shear strength.

 

[Booze Hound]

I've broken Tapcons by applying too much torque as it stuck into rock I skived when drilling the hole, the head just snapped off. Are you going to be hammering on the workbench? If so, Tapcon's may be a bit too brittle. I'd use a pressure treated 2X4 or 2X6, and use a powder actuated fastener, ie Hilti/Ramset. Their nails should be stronger in shear strength.

Probably not too much pounding / hammering but maybe some from time to time. The last bench I built served me well but really was only used for light duty stuff. Some of the fine benches I've seen on this site look like they could hold up a submarine, but I really don't need that much. Just a place to get tinker and work on stuff.

Mostly I was worried about tapping into my concrete basement foundation walls, but it sounds like that shouldn't cause any problems. I think a decent size Tapcon will work for me. There is a Hilti store front nearby where I live so I will probably visit there before I make any decisions on how to move forward.

 

[210Hardtop]

Block or poured?

Block has it's own unique 'characteristics'.
The main thing about poured- check the thickness. You don't want to rupture the waterproofing membrane.

What are you talking about "check the wall thickness"?
You guys crack me up!