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

Lost Head Nails Bright Finish / 3.35mm x 65mm (4 x 2Kg Bags)

Lost Head Nails Bright Finish / 2.36mm x 40mm (10 x 1Kg Bags)

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

Lost Head Nails Galvanised / 3.35mm x 65mm (4 x 2.5Kg Bags)

Lost Head Nails Galvanised / 2.36mm x 40mm (4 x 2.5Kg Bags)

Lost Head Nails Bright Finish / 75mm (10 x 1Kg Bags)

Lost Head Nails Bright Finish / 3mm x 50mm (10Kg Box)

Broadfix U Frame Packers Mixed Bag 200pk

Broadfix Flat Packers Mixed Bag 1mm To 6mm 120pk

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

Wood Screws Recessed Stainless Steel 5x50mm 200pk

Spax 3.5 X 30mm Countersunk Pozi Wood Screws Box Of 200

Spax 3.5 X 25mm Countersunk Pozi Wood Screws Box Of 200

Spax Universal Use Screw - Full Thread - Yellox Coated 5.0 X 60mm

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

Spax Universal Use Screw - Full Thread - Yellox Coated 5.0 X 30mm

GTEC Screws Drywall Self Drilling 75mm 500pk

SPAX YELLOX Countersunk Pozi Drive Screws 4.0 X 60mm Box Of 100

GTEC Screws Drywall Self Tapping Wafer Head 13mm 1000pk

Fischer Metal Cavity Fixing HM 6 X 37 S With Metric Screw (each)

Siniat GTEC Wet Area Self Drilling Screw 25mm 1000pk

Spax Universal Use Screw - Full Thread - Yellox Coated 3.5 X 16mm

Metpost 75mm X 75mm Post Support Bolt Down System 2

Spax Universal Use Screw - Full Thread - Yellox Coated 5.0 X 45mm

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

SPAX® YELLOX Wood Screw Flat Countersunk Head Yellow Tub 5.0x50mm 430pk

SPAX® YELLOX Wood Screw Flat Countersunk Head Yellow Tub 5.0x70mm 250pk

SPAX® YELLOX Wood Screw Flat Countersunk Head Yellow Tub 5.0x90mm 150pk

SPAX® YELLOX Wood Screw Flat Countersunk Head Yellow Tub 5.0x100mm 135pk

SPAX® HI.FORCE WIROX Wood Screws Washer Head 6x100mm 100pk

Fischer S10 10mm Nylon Plug

OJ JCP Masonry Nail Medium Shank 60x3.0mm Box 100

Metpost Bolt Down Wedge Grip 99-103mm

Metpost Flush Fit Bolt Down Wedge Grip 73-78mm

OJ JCP Masonry Nail Medium Shank 50x3.0mm Box 100

Metpost Flush Fit Bolt Down System 2 73-78mm

Simpson Adjustable Joist Hanger JHA270 91

Simpson Frame Ties Galv 6x2 FT200

Spax Universal Use Screw - Partial Thread - Yellox Coated 5.0 X 90mm

OJ A2 - 304 Stainless Steel Chippy Screws - 4.0x40 100pk