The Ultimate Guide to Fasteners & Fixings for UK Construction
What Are Fasteners & Fixings?
Fasteners are mechanical components used to join or secure materials together. In industrial and construction settings, they come in various forms — bolts, nuts, washers, anchors, screws, and plugs. The right choice depends on application, environment, and material strength.
Fixings refer to the overall methods or components used to secure one object to another. While often used interchangeably with fasteners, fixings can include wall plugs, chemical anchors, or support systems.
Common Types of Fasteners in the UK Construction Industry
Here’s an overview of the most widely used fasteners in UK construction and mechanical installation projects:
1. Bolts
Bolts are externally threaded fasteners used with nuts. Common types include:
- Hex Head Bolts – used in general frame fixing
- Cone Pointed Screws
- Roofing Bolts – lightweight installations like cable baskets
Finishes available: BZP, HDG, Stainless Steel
2. Threaded Rods & Studs
Threaded rods, or studs, are used in suspended support systems for HVAC, cable tray hangers, and pipework. Available in full bars or pre-cut lengths.
3. Nuts
Used in conjunction with bolts or threaded rod. Types include:
- Hex Nuts (standard)
- Channel Nuts (with or without springs)
- Lock Nuts (Nyloc) – for vibration resistance
4. Washers
Essential for distributing load and preventing fastener damage. Includes:
- Penny Washers – for lightweight installs like cable tray
- Square Plate Washers – for concrete or timber bases
- Spring Washers – vibration dampening
5. Concrete Anchors
Used for high-strength anchoring into concrete or masonry. Includes:
- Thunderbolts / Screwbolts
- Drop-In Anchors
- Throughbolts
How to Choose the Right Fixing
1. Environment
- Indoor: BZP is cost-effective and sufficient
- Outdoor: Use HDG or Stainless Steel for corrosion protection
- Marine/Industrial: A4 grade stainless steel required
2. Load Bearing
Always check shear and tensile strength. Refer to datasheets when anchoring to concrete, steel, or block.
3. Compatibility
Match nuts, bolts, and washers by finish to avoid galvanic corrosion.
4. Installation Method
- Screwbolts for rapid fixing
- Drop-in anchors for overhead applications
- Throughbolts for structural supports
Top-Selling Fasteners to Try
- M10 x 100mm Threaded Stud – HDG: Used for strut framework and cable support
- M8 x 50mm Bolt/Nut/Washer Set – BZP: Great all-rounder for general assembly
- Spring Washers – HDG: Keeps joints tight on rooftops or vibrating surfaces
Fastener Use Cases by Sector
Construction
- Baseplate bolts and stud anchors
- Channel framework with nut and bolt sets
Electrical
- Penny washers for cable tray support
- Nyloc nuts to reduce vibration loosening
Mechanical / HVAC
- Spring nuts and rods for ductwork frames
- Anchor fixings for pipe brackets
Why Choose Direct Channel for Industrial Fixings?
- Over 10,000 high-quality fixings in stock
- Finishes: BZP, HDG, Stainless A2 & A4
- 95% dispatched within 24 hours
- Trade pricing and expert support available
Explore Our Full Fasteners & Fixings Range
Need Help?
Our expert team is here to help you choose the right fixing for your job.
- 📞 Call us on 0121 270 8507
- 📧 Email: orders@directchannel.uk.com
