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

Cast Iron Bracket Screws 1.25Inch Zinc Plated

Lindab 250mm Round Steel Spike for Pipe Holder

Cast Iron Deep Style Side Fixing Rafter Bracket - 100mm Black Finish

Galvanised Clout Roofing Nail 3.75 x 65mm - 1kg

Galvanised Clout Roofing Nail 3.75 x 65mm - 5kg

Sabrefix Timber Frame Tie For 50mm To 75mm Cavity - Pack Of 250

CMS Tools Fixing Clips

Sabrefix 38mm Truss Clip - Pack of 100

Sabrefix 50mm Truss Clip - Pack of 100

Sabrefix Standard Leg 75mm Jiffy Hanger - Pack of 60

Sabrefix Standard Leg 92mm Jiffy Hanger - Pack of 60

Sabrefix Standard Leg 100mm Jiffy Hanger - Pack of 60

Sabrefix 50mm x 165mm Multi Truss Hanger - Pack of 25

Sabrefix 150mm Frame Tie With Safety End - Pack of 200

Sabrefix 4mm Hip Iron - Pack of 25

Sabrefix 76mm x 125mm Universal Framing Anchor - Pack Of 100

WFB.125 (GL2) 75mm Leg Fixing Bracket - Box of 100

WFP.295 (GL9) 125mm Leg Fixing Bracket - Box of 100

FR12 (GL3) Channel Connector - Box of 50

Sabrefix 38mm Mini Hanger - Pack Of 100

Sabrefix 47mm Mini Hanger - Pack Of 100

Sabrefix 400mm Herringbone Strutt - Pack of 50

Sabrefix 50mm x 95mm Multi Truss Hanger - Pack of 35

Timco Nylon Hammer Fixing 8.0 x 80 Pk50

Timco Nylon Plug 8.0 x 40 Pk10

Timco Yellow Plastic Plug 25mm Pk100

Forgefix Dryw Thread Black Phosphate 3.5mm x 32mm (8 x Box of 1000)

Round Head Nails Bright / 3.75mm x 75mm (10 x 250g Bags)