french cleats on poured concrete wall

[Zane Harris]

I want to install a French cleat system around the perimeter of my basement workshop, but am undecided as to how to anchor it to the portion that is poured concrete. Would I have better luck using TapCon screws, or bolt anchors ( http://www.powers.com/product_09230.php )?

[John Lanciani]

I'd either use tapcons or red-heads; http://www.globalindustrial.com/p/fa...nKsaApnK8P8HAQ wedge bolts would be my next choice; http://www.globalindustrial.com/p/st...LYUaAvjK8P8HAQ and the lead shields you show would be last on my list.

[glenn bradley]

Whatever you choose, use a string line and make sure to shim them so that they are on an even plane. Cleat mounted fixtures on a straight cleat can simply slide left or right as needed. A typical uneven wall will not only not allow easy moving, you may even be challenged to mount using the cleat at all since the nice true part fo the cleat on your fixture won't join well with the wavy cleat on the wall. DAMHIKT. I added wallboard and so was able to shim the wallboard true and then simply mount the cleats. Took more time but, man, have I been glad I did.

[Mike Ontko]

You'll get a better hold with the wedge bolts, and they'll make it easier to remove the cleat/rail in the future if you move or want to change your layout. You'll need a hammer drill or some other heavy duty drill with a masonry bit for drilling the holes through the concrete (and rebar reinforcement).