What Size Drill Bit for 3/16″ Tapcon?

A 3/16″ Tapcon goes into a 5/32″ hole.

Tapcon bits also come in different lengths, and the right one depends on how deep the screw needs to go. Here’s a chart of bit lengths and drill depths, then the steps for setting the screw in concrete.

What size drill bit for 3/16” Tapcon?

A 3/16” tapcon will require a drill bit that is measured at 5/32” in diameter  

Tapcon Size	Drill Bit Size
3/16”	5/32”

Now that you know the diameter, let’s switch gears and talk about the other measurements to consider. With a 3/16” tapcon, you will be able to use drill bits measured in different lengths. The best length will depend on the depth of your drill.  

Since I’m talking about a 3/16” tapcon, you’ll see below that there are three difference lengths. Let’s take a look at the following chart below so you can find the right drill bit based on the depth of your hole needed.    

Tapcon	Diameter X Length	Drill Depth
3/16”	5/32” x 3-½”	2”
3/16”	5/32” x 4-½”	3”
3/16”	5/32” x 5-½”	4”

How to use a 3/16” Tapcon?

Once you have found the correct length that fits your drill, now the real fun begins. If you are having a hard time remembering some of the details such as the diameter and length of the drill bit you need, you can always refer back to this guide. In fact, I suggest bookmarking it for reference purposes.  

Using a 3/16” tapcon will depend on your own DIY goals. Since tapcons are used for masonry work, you’ll want to find the right screws. So once you find them, that’s when you need to install them on the drill itself.  

It’s also a good idea to double check if the length of the screw is exactly what you need before moving forward. Also, check the measurement of the carbide (which should be 5/32”). Once the measurements are confirmed, there’s a couple other things to make sure of.  

You’ll want to ensure that the bit meets any of the ANSI standards. The reason for this is to make sure that the holes you drill will be able to meet the proper tolerance. After you’ve checked everything, install the screw and you’re ready to go.

Read more about what drill bit to use for different screws:

• #6 screw
• #8 screw
• #10 screw

When to use 3/16” Tapcon?

A 3/16” tapcon is best used when you are working with masonry projects. Whether it’s brick, concrete, or blocks, you’ll have a lot of fun using it. When working with 3/16” tapcon drills, you are also working with a hammer drill as well since it’s required.  

Hammer drills are perfect for all of your masonry needs. Especially when you want to drill a hole into harder materials. It’s amazing that you can use such a drill to cut through harder materials.  

1. Once you’ve drilled a hole to the proper depth, you’ll want to prepare it for installing the tapcon screw itself. You need to clean off the area and ensure there is no dust and debris anywhere.  
2. This is also a good time to use a wire brush to clean the inside part of the hole. Make sure the wire brush is the same diameter of the hole that you drilled. With a twist and turning motion, clean the hole and use a shop vac or vacuum.  
3. Repeat the process when needed. You can use compressed air as an alternative, but it can affect the air quality in your immediate area. For better results, stick with a vacuum during the prep process.  
4. After the hole is cleaned, install the tapcon screw into the pre-drilled hole. Using a rotation drill, you can slowly screw it in. Light pressure should be good enough to apply for this process.

Other Considerations for 3/16” Tapcon?

Keep in mind that there are other drill bit styles that you can use to drill holes into harder materials. These include straight shank and SDS bits. Straight Shank bits will be used for Jacobs Style chucks (which uses a chuck key). These ones have sides that are round or flat so they can easily fit into the chuck.  

SDS or spline drive systems can be used on hammer drills that use a chuck that you can disconnect quickly. For all your heavy duty jobs where harder hammering is required with a drill, this is the bit style that will prove itself useful.

Before Using a 3/16” Tapcon

Before using a 3/16” tapcon, it’s important to have a clear plan for the project you are planning on doing. You’ll also want to make sure you have all other tools on hand including a vacuum, a wire brush (with a diameter of the drill hole), and a hammer drill.  

Knowing the surface you are working on will also determine the type of drill bit that you use. If you are planning on doing a project that can be a challenge, an SDS bit will be the better option since it can withstand heavy hammering.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking to use a 3/16” tapcon, it’s always a good idea to know what drill bit you need to use. The wrong drill bit size can make the project a lot more complicated. Know the length you need for your drill and make sure it meets all the ANSI requirements.  

With proper preparation and planning, your project that uses a 3/16″ tapcon will be a complete success. I hope that this guide has been helpful. Once again, I encourage you to use this as a reference whenever needed.