Screws, plugs and nuts

Choose the right fastener in three steps

Step 1 – Consider the material you are working with

Most fasteners are material-specific. This means they are optimised for specific materials, so it is important that you know which material you will fasten to. For example, decking screws are designed to be fastened to wood and to last a long time in an outdoor climate without coming loose in the material.

Step 2 – Adapt the fastener to the environment

The environment in which the fastener will be used plays a greater role than many people think. In outdoor environments where the fastener is at the mercy of the elements, a more corrosion-resistant fastener is a safe bet. Corrosion-resistant fasteners can also be used in humid indoor environments.

Step 3 – Find the right length

It is also important to use the correct length. The thickness of the material determines the length of the screw you will need. A rule of thumb is that the screw or nail should be twice as long as the depth of the material you are going to fasten to. But like all rules, there are exceptions. If you are unsure of the screw or nail length you need, you are welcome to visit one of our stores and we will help you.

Different fasteners and what they are used for

• Board screws – screws used to attach, among other things, plasterboard and chipboard.
• Decking screws – used to attach decking boards to wooden beams.
• Wood screws – screws used to attach wood to wood.
• Sheet metal screws – screws used to attach sheet metal to sheet metal.
• Mounting screws – screws with a larger head that protrude from the material. Used for kitchen cabinets and similar.
• Nails – inserted into a material with a hammer or a nail gun.
• Brad nails – for mounting skirtings, mouldings. Clout nails – for attaching roofing felt.
• Bolts – threaded fastener with a hexagonal head.  Used with washers and nuts to form a bolted joint.
• Washers – used to distribute the load in a bolted joint.
• Nuts – used together with a bolt to form a bolted joint.
• Plugs – used to provide better grip when fastening a screw to brick and concrete, for example.

Frequently asked questions about Fixing elements

What are fasteners?

Fasteners are components such as nails, screws, nuts, etc. that hold a structure together and ensure that it is stable.

What types of fasteners are available?

At Biltema you will find washers, bolts, construction screws, expander screws, machine screws, mounting screws, nuts, plugs, sheet metal screws, board screws, special screws, nails, decking screws, and wood screws.