Lag Screw Anchors: Burning Man's Secret To Stability

Burning Man is an annual festival that takes place in the Black Rock Desert in Nevada. It is known for its harsh environment, with scorching temperatures during the day and frequent dust storms. As such, it is important for attendees to have a sturdy shelter that can withstand strong winds. In the past, rebar has been used to anchor tents and shade structures, but in recent years, there has been a shift towards using lag screw anchors. Lag screws are easier to install and remove, and they create a flush surface with the ground, reducing the risk of tripping. They can be combined with chain links to create an anchor point and can be screwed into the ground using a drill. This article will explore the benefits of using lag screw anchors for Burning Man and provide a guide on how to use them effectively.

Pros and cons of using lag screw anchors vs rebar

Lag screws are being increasingly used as an alternative to rebar at Burning Man. Here is a detailed look at the pros and cons of using lag screw anchors versus rebar:

Pros of Lag Screw Anchors:

• Safety: Lag screws sit flush with the playa, eliminating the risk of tripping, which is a common issue with rebar.
• Ease of Use: They can be easily screwed into and out of the playa in seconds with a drill, requiring zero effort and no additional tools.
• Cost-Effective: Lag screws are not expensive and are a one-time investment. They are comparable in price to rebar.
• Anchor Point: They can be easily combined with chain links to create a secure anchor point, whereas rebar often requires guy-lines, which can be tripping hazards.
• Flexibility: Lag screws can be used for a variety of applications, including tents, shade structures, guy-lines, and ratchets.
• Storage and Transportation: Lag screws are easier to store and transport than rebar, as they are smaller and do not require additional tools like hammers or crowbars.

Cons of Lag Screw Anchors:

• Power Tools Required: Lag screws require power tools, such as a drill or impact driver, for installation and removal. This means bringing extra batteries or a way to recharge them.
• Length and Thickness: Choosing the appropriate length and thickness of lag screws can be tricky. Shorter screws may not provide enough hold, while longer screws can be more challenging to install and increase battery usage.
• Metal Type: Selecting the right metal type for lag screws can depend on the application. Stainless steel, for example, is more expensive.
• Removal: While easier to remove than rebar, lag screws still require a drill for removal. A fully charged battery or backup battery may be necessary to ensure efficient removal.

Pros of Rebar:

• Installation: Rebar can be installed by pounding it into the ground with a sledgehammer, requiring minimal tools.
• Cost: It is inexpensive and readily available, making it a good option for those on a tight budget.
• Versatility: Rebar can be cut and bent to the desired shape, making it versatile for various applications.

Cons of Rebar:

• Safety: Rebar can be messy, sharp, and hazardous, often requiring gloves to handle. It can stick out of the ground and pose a tripping hazard.
• Removal: Rebar is challenging to remove from the playa without tools. It often requires a crowbar or vice grip pliers to pry it out, or a hammer to pound it in further.
• Anchor Point: Rebar does not have a built-in anchor point and often requires additional guy-lines, which can be tripping hazards.
• Bending: Rebar can bend easily, especially when pounded into hard-packed playa.

How to install lag screw anchors

Installing lag screw anchors is a straightforward process, but it does require some preparation and the right tools. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install lag screw anchors effectively:

Step 1: Prepare the Materials

Before starting the installation, gather all the necessary materials, including the lag screw anchors, a power drill, an impact driver (or a regular drill), a cordless drill, 3/8” hex head lag screws in varying lengths (10”, 12”, 14”), a length of chain, bolt cutters or a cutting disc, and safety gear such as gloves and eye protection.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Chain

The length of chain required will depend on the number of lag screws you plan to use. As a general rule, you will need a chain length that is at least three links for each lag screw. For example, if you need to install eight lag screws, you will require a chain with at least 24 links. Use bolt cutters or a cutting disc to cut the chain into two-link pieces. It is recommended to have a few extra links as a backup.

Step 3: Prepare the Drill and Battery

Ensure your cordless drill is fully charged before heading to the installation site. If possible, bring extra batteries or a generator to recharge the drill on-site. This is especially important if you plan to install a large number of lag screws.

Step 4: Choose the Correct Drill Bit

Select a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the lag screw anchors you will be using. This will create a tight fit for the anchors.

Step 5: Drill the Hole

Using the selected drill bit, drill a hole at the desired location. The hole should be deep enough to accommodate the length of the lag screw anchor, plus a little extra space. Make sure to clear any debris from the hole after drilling.

Step 6: Insert the Lag Screw Anchor

Take a lag screw anchor and insert it into the drilled hole. Use a hammer to gently tap the anchor until it is flush with the surface. Ensure the anchor is secure and firmly in place.

Step 7: Attach the Chain and Screw

Thread one of the two-link chain pieces onto the lag screw. Position the screw so that the chain is resting against the surface, and the screw is ready to be drilled into the anchor.

Step 8: Drill the Lag Screw

Using the power drill, begin to drill the lag screw into the anchor. Continue drilling until the screw is tight and secure. The screw should be drilled all the way in, leaving the chain link flush with the surface.

Step 9: Repeat as Needed

Repeat steps 5 through 8 for each additional lag screw anchor you need to install.

Step 10: Final Checks and Maintenance

Once all the lag screws are installed, perform a final check to ensure they are all secure and tight. Over time, you may need to periodically tighten the screws to maintain their hold.

Remember to practice proper safety measures throughout the installation process and always wear the appropriate protective gear, including gloves and eye protection.

How to remove lag screw anchors

Removing lag screw anchors is easy and can be done in a few simple steps.

First, make sure you have the right tools for the job. You will need an impact driver and the correct socket to unscrew the lag. A cordless drill won't be powerful enough. You will also need a hex socket that fits your lag and an extension adapter to connect your impact driver. It is recommended to bring backups as these tools can be easily misplaced.

Next, you will need to recharge your drill battery if it has been used recently. A full charge is important to ensure the lag screw can be removed quickly and efficiently.

Now, attach the impact driver and the correct socket to your drill. Place the hex socket and extension adapter onto the impact driver.

Then, use the drill in reverse to unscrew the lag. This should be done with minimal effort and in a matter of seconds.

Finally, collect the screw and chain and store them safely, ready for reuse.

It is important to note that removing lag screw anchors is significantly easier than removing rebar. Lag screws are drilled into and out of the playa with zero effort and without the need for additional tools. This makes them a safer and more convenient option.

Tools required for installation and removal

The main tool required for the installation of lag screw anchors is an impact driver. While a regular cordless drill will work, an impact driver will make the process faster and easier. It is recommended to bring a backup drill or impact driver, as well as extra batteries, as the process of installing and removing the screws can drain the battery quickly.

In addition to a drill, you will need a 3/8” hex head socket that fits your lag screw, as well as an extension adapter to connect to the impact driver. It is important to test fit all the sockets and adapters before going to the playa.

To cut the chain links, you will need bolt cutters, a cutting disc, or access to a hardware store where you can have the chain cut for you.

For removal, you will need to use the impact driver in reverse to unscrew the lag screws from the playa.

Other useful tools to have on hand include vice-grip pliers, which can be used to remove rebar, and a generator, which can be useful for charging your drill batteries.

Safety considerations when using lag screw anchors

When using lag screw anchors, there are several safety considerations to keep in mind to ensure a successful and secure installation without compromising your well-being. Here are some essential guidelines:

Protective Gear:

• Always wear safety glasses to safeguard your eyes from flying debris and dust that may be generated during the drilling process.
• Utilise ear protection, especially when operating power tools like hammer drills, to prevent long-term hearing damage from prolonged exposure to loud noises.
• Don a dust mask or respirator to protect your lungs from inhaling harmful masonry dust. Consider using a dust collection system or having an assistant hold a vacuum near the drilling site to minimise airborne particles.

Drilling Techniques:

• Determine the appropriate hole depth and diameter by following the manufacturer's instructions. In general, the hole should be slightly deeper than the anchor's length to accommodate any debris at the bottom, and the diameter should match the specified anchor size.
• Adjust the pressure and drill speed accordingly. Finding the right combination often involves some experimentation. Drill a few holes to get a sense of what works best with the specific masonry material you're dealing with.
• If you encounter rebar while drilling, try moving the hole location slightly or use a rebar-cutting drill bit to overcome the obstacle.

Anchor Selection and Installation:

• Choose the right type of anchor for your project and base material. Consider factors such as the item's weight, stone type, and environmental conditions.
• For lag screw anchors, ensure you have the correct length and diameter to suit your specific application. Inadequate anchor dimensions can compromise the stability of the installation.
• When installing lag screw anchors, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. For example, when using lag shields, drill a hole that matches the outer diameter of the shield and tap it into the hole until it's flush with the surface.
• If you are working with concrete, be cautious about the proximity of your anchors to the edge. Keep a safe distance to prevent concrete cracking.

By adhering to these safety considerations and guidelines, you can ensure a secure and safe installation of lag screw anchors while minimising potential hazards to yourself and your surroundings.

Frequently asked questions