Whether your design calls for rebar doweling on an infrastructure retrofit or structural anchoring with threaded rod, it’s important to use the proper type of anchoring adhesive. Knowing some of the key differences between products developed for concrete and masonry can help you simplify the selection process, save yourself some time, and get the job done. 

Not all anchoring adhesives, also known as adhesive anchors, are the same. Across the construction industry, there are a number of product options in the market. Simpson Strong-Tie offers two main types — epoxy and hybrid acrylic. 

Adhesive anchors are typically developed to meet a combination of factors —application, base material, type of insert, load requirements, environmental conditions and cure time. These same factors should also be taken into account when matching an anchoring adhesive to your project requirements.  

Knowing the key differences between anchoring adhesives can make it easier to select the right one for your project. 

Meet the 3G family of anchoring adhesives 

Simpson Strong-Tie has a complete line of epoxy and hybrid acrylic anchoring adhesives for a wide range of applications. Our SET-3G™, ET-3G™ and AT-3G™ products provide a high-strength hold and are code listed for cracked and uncracked concrete. They’re suitable for a wide range of applications and easy to install. Here’s a quick comparison. 

SET-3G™ epoxy adhesive is a highly versatile solution with ultimate bonding strength  

This epoxy adhesive is the best option for heavy-duty structural applications, such as anchoring steel columns and beams into concrete for multilevel, commercial structures. It’s also a popular choice when securing holdowns in seismic and other conditions. SET-3G can be applied in dry, damp, water-filled or submerged holes for both concrete and masonry. 

ET-3G™ epoxy adhesive is ideal for general rebar doweling and threaded rod work

This epoxy adhesive is ideal for doweling into concrete roads, floors and foundations. You can also use it to dowel and extend a wall and to anchor into hollow CMU, grout filled CMU and unreinforced masonry. ET-3G can be applied in dry or damp conditions for both concrete and masonry. 

AT-3G™ hybrid adhesive is a fast-curing option when same-day bolt-up is needed  

This hybrid acrylic adhesive is formulated for cold weather and sets quickly at a wide range of temperatures for same-day bolt-up. It can be used for interior applications like anchoring columns, or exterior jobs like anchoring highway barriers or parking bollards. AT-3G can be applied in dry or damp conditions, indoors or outdoors. 

Tools and accessories for anchoring jobs of any size 

Simpson Strong-Tie® 3G adhesive anchors are offered in single coaxial and side-by-side plastic cartridges. We also supply a wide variety of accessories like dispensing tools, brushes for hole cleaning, screen tubes for masonry applications, and piston plugs for horizontal and overhead installations. These products are stocked nationwide, available at local retailers, and backed by our expert service and technical support.  

Learn more about our 3G family of adhesive anchors, installation tools and accessories.