Post-installed rebar connections
This is structural concrete design executed with a drill.
What it is
Post-installed reinforcement bonds rebar into drilled holes in existing concrete to connect new structure to old — a routine part of extension, strengthening and repair work.
Why hole quality dominates
The connection relies entirely on bond between adhesive, hole wall and bar. Embedment depths are long, cleaning requirements are strict, and the consequences of failure are structural.
Approvals specify drilling method, hole cleaning, adhesive, curing and inspection.
Practical requirements
Correct diameter and depth, drilled perpendicular, cleaned exactly as specified.
Existing reinforcement must be located first — hitting it is both a structural and a programme problem.
Not a field decision
Post-installed rebar is designed. Follow the engineer's detail and the adhesive approval; do not substitute products or shorten cleaning cycles.
Questions about this
Is post-installed rebar the same as an adhesive anchor?
It uses similar adhesives but is a distinct application with its own design rules, longer embedment depths and stricter cleaning requirements. It is designed by an engineer, not chosen on site.
What is the most common failure cause?
Inadequate hole cleaning. The connection depends entirely on bond, and dust is a bond breaker.