Thunderbolts
What is a Thunderbolt anchor?
A Thunderbolt is a self-tapping masonry anchor — also known as a concrete bolt or masonry screw. Unlike a sleeve anchor or through bolt, it doesn’t expand: the hardened thread cuts into the base material, so there’s no wall plug, no resin and no outward pressure. You can fix close to edges, drive it in with an impact driver in seconds, and unscrew it cleanly for temporary or repositionable jobs.
How to install
- Drill a hole the same diameter as the anchor, slightly deeper than needed.
- Clean the dust out.
- Drive the Thunderbolt in with an impact driver until the thread bites.
- Tighten to pull the fixture down — to remove it, simply unscrew.
Where they work best
Concrete, brick, concrete block and stone — ideal for frames, brackets, battens, conduit, shelving and gating, and anywhere you need to fix close to an edge or remove the fixing later.
Be careful with: holding power depends on embedment depth and base-material strength. Test-fix in weak brick, hollow block and mortar joints, and use a certified anchor with published load data for safety-critical or structural loads.Read the full Thunderbolt guide for the detail.
The Fastco range
Thunderbolts from M5 to M16, 30–200mm, in hexagon, hexagon flange and countersunk Torx 25 heads — zinc-yellow plated, with galvanised M16 for corrosive environments. Trade packs and bulk discounts, fast UK delivery.
Quick answers
Do Thunderbolts need wall plugs? No — the anchor cuts its own thread, so no plug or resin is needed.
Can they be removed and reused? Yes — unscrew with the same driver. Ideal for temporary works.
Thunderbolt or sleeve anchor? Near an edge or need it removable? Thunderbolt. Heavy load away from edges? A sleeve or through bolt may carry more.