What Is a Masonry Cable Tie Mount?

Masonry cable tie mounts offer a reliable and permanent way to fasten wiring to concrete, brick, or stone surfaces. These small but powerful components serve a crucial role in keeping electrical installations clean, safe, and compliant. Designed to hold cable ties in place on rugged materials, they’re widely used in construction, electrical, and industrial environments where traditional mounts won’t work. In this article, we’ll explain what masonry cable tie mounts are, how they work, and where they’re used. We’ll also review a high-performing option from HellermannTyton and offer expert tips for selecting and installing these essential components.

Understanding Masonry Cable Tie Mounts

Masonry cable tie mounts are designed to hold cable ties securely against hard surfaces such as brick, concrete block, stone, or poured cement. Unlike adhesive or screw-mount tie bases used on smooth surfaces, these mounts use built-in anchors to grip rough materials permanently. They are typically installed into pre-drilled holes. Once in place, they serve as stable anchor points for cable ties, allowing you to bundle and route wires securely. This prevents sagging, strain, or hazards from loose wiring in demanding environments.

Key Components and Structure

• Body Material: Most masonry mounts use heat-resistant, high-strength plastics like polyamide (nylon), which perform well under thermal stress.
• Anchor/Fir Tree Design: The mount’s shaft inserts into a drilled hole. A fir tree or barbed design locks it in place when pushed in.
• Mounting Hole: A centered hole allows a cable tie to slide through, providing a fixed tie-down point.

These mounts may support different cable tie sizes, with variations in height, width, and insertion depth depending on application needs.

Why Use a Masonry Mount?

Masonry surfaces pose unique challenges. They’re uneven, porous, and often exposed to harsh conditions. Adhesive mounts won’t stick, and screws can loosen over time due to vibration or thermal cycling. Masonry mounts fill this gap.

Benefits

• Permanent Fixation: Fir tree anchors hold tightly in drilled holes, preventing the mount from backing out.
• Weather Resistance: Most are made of UV-stable, high-temperature plastics for indoor and outdoor use.
• Faster Installs: Just drill and press—no need for glue or screws.
• Clean Routing: Helps maintain neat, hazard-free cable layouts on difficult surfaces.

Where Are They Used?

Masonry cable tie mounts appear across multiple sectors. Their versatility makes them a staple for professional installers who deal with rugged environments.

Construction and Renovation

Electricians use them when routing conduit, power cables, or data lines through unfinished basements, parking structures, or utility rooms.

Industrial Facilities

Factories often have exposed cement walls and ceilings. Mounts help secure sensor lines, control cables, and power feeds in machinery zones.

Tunnels and Infrastructure

In transportation infrastructure, you’ll find these mounts used in underground tunnels, bridges, and subways, where concrete dominates.

Outdoor Equipment Installations

Mounts also work well for mounting lines to light poles, meter boxes, backup power units, and security systems. Learn more: The Importance of Cable Tie Mounting Plates in Cable Management.

Product Review: HellermannTyton MMB.50C2 Masonry Cable Tie Mount

The HellermannTyton MMB.50C2 is a dependable, well-built solution for fastening wires to masonry. It’s designed with a 1.24-inch body and fits into 0.25-inch pre-drilled holes. The fir tree mount installs quickly with a press-fit design, holding firm without wobble or slip. Made from PA46 nylon, it withstands temperatures from -40°F to 266°F, making it suitable for both indoor electrical rooms and outdoor weather-exposed zones. The mount accepts cable ties up to 0.18 inches in width, ideal for T18 through T50 sizes. We tested the mount on concrete and brick surfaces and found the insertion process clean and simple. The hold strength was excellent, even under moderate strain and vibration. Its compact, low-profile build helps it stay out of the way in tight or visible spaces, and the UL 94 V2 flammability rating gives extra confidence for safety-critical environments.

Installation Tips for Masonry Mounts

To get the best performance from any masonry mount, follow these simple installation tips:

Drill the Correct Hole Size

Use a drill bit that matches the anchor’s recommended hole diameter—typically 1/4" for mounts like the MMB.50C2. The hole should be deep enough to allow the entire fir tree shaft to be inserted.

Clean the Hole

After drilling, remove dust and debris. A handheld air blower or small brush works well. Clean holes help the anchor grip tightly and prevent slippage.

Use Steady Pressure

Insert the mount using firm, even pressure. You can use a soft mallet or press it in by hand. Don’t twist, as this can weaken the hold.

Align for Tie Access

Orient the mount so the cable tie channel is easy to access after installation. This ensures faster wiring and adjustments.

Don’t Reuse After Removal

Once removed, fir tree anchors often lose their gripping strength. For critical installs, always replace used mounts with new ones.

How to Choose the Right Masonry Mount

Not all masonry cable tie mounts are the same. Make sure you choose the right one for your project based on these criteria:

1. Material and Temperature Resistance

For indoor installations, standard nylon may work. For outdoor or industrial use, PA46 or UV-stabilized nylon performs better over time.

2. Cable Tie Compatibility

Check the mount’s maximum tie width. The MMB.50C2 fits cable ties up to 0.18 inches—ideal for T18–T50 sizes. Ensure it matches your cable bundle size.

3. Mounting Hole Diameter

Use the mount’s specification sheet to confirm the drill size needed. A mismatch can cause a loose fit or prevent full insertion.

4. Flammability and Compliance

For regulated environments, look for mounts that meet UL or RoHS standards. The MMB.50C2 meets both, ensuring peace of mind in sensitive settings.

5. Surface Type and Depth

For deep or uneven masonry, ensure the mount has enough insertion depth and barbs to hold securely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even pros can run into issues with masonry mounts if they’re not careful. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Using the wrong hole size: Too wide and the mount won’t hold. If it is too small, it may crack the surface.
• Skipping surface prep: Dust in the hole reduces grip.
• Overloading the mount: Only use cable ties within the specified width and tensile strength.
• Improper spacing: Overstretching wires between mounts can cause sagging or stress.

Take the time to do it right—your cables and team will thank you.

When to Consider Other Mounting Options

While masonry mounts are great for hard surfaces, they aren’t the only option. Use:

• Adhesive bases on smooth indoor walls
• Screw-mount bases on drywall or wood
• Magnetic mounts for temporary metal installs
• Releasable cable ties for adjustable layouts

Match the mount to the material and environment for best results.

Conclusion

Masonry cable tie mounts might be small, but they play a major role in keeping wiring neat, secure, and code-compliant on tough surfaces. Whether you’re working in a dusty warehouse, a damp basement, or an outdoor control unit, these mounts give you the long-term hold you need without adhesives or drilling headaches. The HellermannTyton MMB.50C2 stands out as a top performer, offering a fast, firm install and compatibility with a wide range of cable ties. When reliability matters, don’t overlook this powerful little piece of hardware—it could be the backbone of your next great install. For more insights and tips on cable ties and other related products, explore cabletiesunlimited.com, get a quick and free quote, and follow us on our social media communities on Facebook and Instagram!