What are Anchors for Wood?
Anchors for wood fasten threaded rod and hardware directly to wood framing. Common options include wood hangers with coupler and Sammy Screws that drive into joists or beams to support MEP, sprinkler, and cable tray systems.
When should I use Anchors for Wood?
- Hanging duct, pipe, cable tray, and electrical from wood joists or beams
- Retrofits where a fast, drill free connection is preferred
- Light to heavy duty suspensions sized per code and load requirements
Types of wood anchors
- Wood hanger with coupler: Clamp style body with an integrated coupler to accept threaded rod for a vertical drop.
- Sammy Screws for wood:
- Vertical: For straight down rod drops.
- Horizontal: For side mounting into the face of a member.
Sizing and fit for wood anchors
- Pick the anchor by the rod size you plan to hang (e.g., 1/4 in, 5/16 in)
- Confirm the required embedment and minimum edge distances
- For dense or hardwoods, pre drill a pilot hole sized per the product sheet
- Use vertical vs horizontal models to match the load direction
Materials and finishes
Zinc plated steel
General purpose corrosion protection for indoor use and most dry locations.
Stainless options
Select when additional corrosion resistance is needed (when available).
Installation tips
- Drive Sammy Screws with a drill/impact using the specified nut driver
- Keep the anchor square to the wood member and drive to full embedment
- For wood hangers with coupler, tighten per instructions and thread in the rod
- Do not exceed rated loads; follow local code and manufacturer guidance
FAQs about Anchors for Wood
Quick answers for selection, sizing, and installation on wood framing.
- What are anchors for wood used for?
They provide a fast way to attach threaded rod to wood joists and beams for duct, pipe, cable tray, and sprinkler supports.
- Should I choose a wood hanger or a Sammy Screw?
Use a wood hanger when you want an integrated coupler and clamp style connection. Use Sammy Screws for quick, direct fastening (vertical for down rods, horizontal for side mounts).
- Do I need to pre drill?
Softwoods often allow direct driving. In dense lumber or engineered wood, a pilot hole per the product sheet improves driving and holding power.
- How do I pick the right size?
Match the rod size (e.g., 1/4 in or 5/16 in), verify minimum embedment, and check allowable load for the specific model and wood species.
- Can these be used outdoors?
Choose stainless or approved coated versions for wet or corrosive environments. Standard zinc plated parts are for dry interiors.
- What torque or driver should I use?
Use the manufacturer’s nut driver/bit and follow the listed installation torque or drive-to-depth instructions for full performance.
- What if the rod needs to be removed later?
Rod can be removed and replaced. The driven anchor typically remains in the wood and is not reused in a new location.