Question 1

1. What is ‘builders’ metalwork’?

Accepted Answer

Builders’ metalwork refers to pre-formed metal parts used to reinforce, join, or support timber and masonry in construction. Common examples include joist hangers, angle brackets, restraint straps, and timber connector plates. These components are typically made from galvanised or stainless steel and are used in structural timber framing, roofing, and masonry builds to meet load bearing and safety requirements.

Question 2

2. What are the most common types of fixings used in timber construction?

Accepted Answer

Timber work typically uses wood screws, collated nails, and metal brackets with nails or bolts. Nail guns are used for speed on larger jobs, with related consumables.

Question 3

3. How do I choose between nails, screws, and bolts?

Accepted Answer

This always depends on the situation at hand, but as a rule: use screws for precision and holding strength, nails for speed (especially with a nail gun), and nuts & bolts for heavy loads or structural applications.

Question 4

4. Can I use the same fixings for masonry and timber?

Accepted Answer

No. Masonry work needs plugs, anchors, or bolts, while timber fixings are designed to grip wood fibres. It's best to base the type of fixing you choose on substrate type, or it won’t work effectively or meet appropriate quality standards.

Screws and fixings

SPAX YELLOX Countersunk Pozi Drive Screws 5.0 X 50mm Box Of 200

Ancon Staifix HRT4 Type 4 Wall Tie 225mm (Pack of 20)

Rawlplug Uno Red Nylon Wall plug (L)28mm (Dia)6mm, Pack of 96

Galvanised Angle - 3600mm x 25mm x 25mm

Paslode 921587 Galvanised Brad Fuel Pack F16 x 25mm

Spax Flooring Screws 4.5 x 60mm Pack of 300

SPAX YELLOX Countersunk Pozi Drive Screws 5 X 90mm Tub Of 150

Stanley 1-TRA706T 10mm Heavy Duty Staples - Pack of 1000

Broadfix Assorted Glazing Flat Packers - Pack of 120

SPAX YELLOX Countersunk Pozi Drive Screws 4.0 X 25mm Box Of 200

Ancon Staifix HRT4 Type 4 Wall Tie 275mm (Pack of 250)

SPAX® YELLOX Wood Screw Flat Countersunk Head Yellow Tub 4.0x50mm 650pk

Ancon Staifix RT2 Type 2 General Purpose Wall Tie 225mm (Pack of 20)

Fischer 7mm Brown Plastic Wall Plugs (Pack Of 100)

Rawlplug UNO Universal Plastic Wall Plug Yellow 5x24mm 96pk

Rawlplug UNO Universal Plastic Wall Plug Brown 7x30mm 96pk

Paslode 921588 Brad Fuel Pack F16 x 32mm Galvanised

Paslode 300271 Angled Brad Fuel Pack F16 x 38mm Galvanised

Lost Head Nails Bright Finish / 2.36mm x 40mm (10 x 500g Bags)

Ring Gate Catch 150mm Black

Timco Metal Speed Plug with Screws Zinc 31.5mm (5 Pack) TBAZSP

Broadfix U Frame Packers Mixed Bag 200pk

SPAX YELLOX Countersunk Pozi Drive Screws 4.0 X 35mm Box Of 200

SPAX YELLOX Countersunk Pozi Drive Screws 4.0 X 30mm Box Of 200

Siniat Self Tapping Drywall Screws 42mm (Pack of 1000)

Cup Square Carriage Bolt & Nut BZP M10x150mm

Cup Square Carriage Bolt & Nut BZP M12x150mm

Cup Square Carriage Bolt & Nut BZP M12x180mm

Cup Square Carriage Bolt & Nut BZP M12x200mm

Square Plate Washer BZP M12 50x50mm

Metpost Flush Fit Bolt Down System 2 73-78mm

Spax Decking Screw - Two Threads - Wirox Coated 4.5 X 60mm

Joist Hanger Galvanised 47x150mm

Rawlplug M6 Loose Bolts 25mm Pack Of 5

Clout Nails Galvanised 2.65x65mm 2.5kg

Stanley Heavy Duty Staples 12mm

Reisser Decking Screw Tub 4.5 x 63mm

Timco 3.5 x 38 Fine Drywall Screws Black PH2 Box of 1000

Black Drywall Screws 32mm Fine Box 1000

Rawlplug Uno Red Wall plug (Dia)6mm, Pack of 1000