How to Fix Strut Channel to Concrete Walls (Correct Fixings Explained)
Fixing strut channel to concrete walls is common across HVAC, electrical containment, pipework, and mechanical installations.
However, the strength of the system depends entirely on selecting the correct fixings and installing them properly.
This guide explains the correct wall-fixing method using Direct Channel strut channel, anchors, and accessories only,
with practical advice installers can apply on site.
Components Required for Concrete Wall Fixing
A standard wall-mounted strut channel installation into concrete relies on four core components.
Each plays a specific role in load transfer and long-term stability.
Choosing the Correct Anchor for Concrete Walls
Concrete anchors behave differently depending on load type, edge distance, and installation depth.
Selecting the correct anchor prevents movement, cracking, and premature failure.
Thunderbolts (Concrete Screwbolts)
Thunderbolts cut their own thread into concrete, creating a strong mechanical grip without expansion pressure.
They suit fast installation and adjustable fixing positions.
Best used for: light to medium-duty strut channel, cable containment, and adjustable brackets.
Throughbolts (Expansion Anchors)
Throughbolts expand inside the drilled hole when tightened, producing high load capacity in solid concrete.
They suit permanent, heavy-duty installations.
Best used for: structural strut frames, cantilever arms, plant supports, and high static loads.
Correct Hole Depth and Fixing Spacing
Accurate drilling and spacing directly affect fixing performance.
Incorrect hole depth often leads to anchors bottoming out or failing under load.
- Drill holes to the anchor manufacturer’s recommended depth
- Clear the dust fully before installing anchors
- Maintain consistent spacing along the channel length
- Increase fixing frequency as loads increase
Back plates help distribute force across the wall surface, especially when mounting heavy strut assemblies.
Wall Mounting vs Floor Mounting
Concrete wall fixings experience different forces compared to floor-mounted installations.
Wall-mounted strut channels must resist both vertical load and pull-out force.
- Wall-mounted: requires higher anchor performance and tighter spacing
- Floor-mounted: benefits from compression loading but still requires secure anchoring
For wall installations, throughbolts or correctly sized Thunderbolts provide the most reliable fixing.
Common Fixing Mistakes to Avoid
- Using undersized anchors for heavy strut systems
- Ignoring edge distances in concrete
- Over-tightening expansion anchors
- Fixing the strut channel directly without back plates on high loads
- Failing to account for vibration in HVAC installations
Final Thoughts
Correctly fixing the strut channel to the concrete walls requires more than drilling holes and tightening bolts.
By selecting the correct anchors, using back plates, and following proper spacing and installation methods,
installers can build safer, stronger, and longer-lasting support systems.
Using Direct Channel strut channel, anchors, and accessories ensures compatibility across the entire installation.
