Whether you're building a new fence, fitting kitchen cabinets, installing shelving or working on a large construction project, selecting the correct fixing is just as important as choosing the right building materials. The wrong screw, bolt or anchor can lead to poor performance, damaged materials or even safety issues, while the correct fixing provides strength, stability and long-lasting results.
With so many different fixings available, it can sometimes be difficult to know which option is best for your project. Factors such as the material you're fixing into, the weight being supported and whether the installation is indoors or outdoors all play an important role.
In this building fixings guide, we'll explain the different types of fixings, when to use them and how to choose the right solution for your next DIY project.
Why Choosing the Right Fixings Matters
It's easy to focus on the larger materials when planning a project, but fixings are often what hold everything together. Even the highest-quality timber, brick or plasterboard installation can fail if the incorrect fixing is used.
Using the right fixing helps to:
- Create a stronger, safer installation
- Improve the lifespan of the finished project
- Reduce maintenance and future repairs
- Prevent damage to surrounding materials
- Improve efficiency when working on-site
For professional tradespeople, using the correct fixings demonstrates quality workmanship and reduces the risk of costly call-backs. For homeowners, it means completing projects with confidence and avoiding common DIY mistakes.
Understanding the Different Types of Building Fixings
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to fixings. Each product has been designed for a particular purpose.
Screws
Screws are one of the most commonly used fixings across construction and DIY projects. They provide excellent holding power and can often be removed and reused if required.
Popular applications include:
- Timber construction
- Decking
- Kitchen installation
- Furniture assembly
- General building work
Different screw types are designed for different materials, including wood screws, masonry screws, drywall screws and self-drilling screws.
Bolts
Bolts are used where additional strength is required. Unlike screws, bolts work alongside nuts and washers to secure heavier components together.
They're commonly used for:
- Structural timber
- Steelwork
- Heavy-duty gates
- Outdoor structures
- Machinery
Nails
Although screws have become increasingly popular, nails remain the preferred option for many framing and timber applications because they can withstand movement without snapping.
Common uses include:
- Timber framing
- Roofing
- Fencing
- General carpentry
Wall Plugs
When fixing into masonry, brick or concrete, wall plugs provide the grip needed for screws to hold securely.
Choosing the correct size wall plug is just as important as selecting the correct screw.
Wall plugs are ideal for:
- Shelving
- Curtain rails
- Wall cabinets
- Decorative fittings
- Interior fixtures
Anchors
Anchors provide additional support where standard wall plugs aren't suitable.
Depending on the material, you may require:
- Expansion anchors
- Shield anchors
- Sleeve anchors
- Plasterboard anchors
- Chemical anchors
These are commonly used for heavier installations where safety is essential.
Matching Fixings to Building Materials
One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing a fixing without considering the material it's being installed into.
Brick and Masonry
Brick requires specialist masonry screws or screws used alongside suitable wall plugs. For heavier loads, expansion anchors may provide additional support.
Typical projects include:
- Outdoor lighting
- Gates
- Fencing
- Wall-mounted storage
- Security equipment
Concrete
Concrete is one of the strongest building materials, meaning it requires heavy-duty fixings capable of creating a secure connection.
Depending on the application, suitable options include:
- Concrete screws
- Through bolts
- Expansion anchors
- Chemical fixings
Timber
Timber offers excellent grip for screws, making it one of the easiest materials to work with.
When selecting timber fixings, consider:
- Screw length
- Thread type
- Exterior coatings
- Timber thickness
For outdoor projects, corrosion-resistant screws are highly recommended.
Plasterboard
Plasterboard cannot support significant weight using ordinary screws alone. Where additional strength is needed, specialist plasterboard fixings help distribute the load more effectively.
These are commonly used for:
- Shelving
- TVs
- Bathroom accessories
- Wall-mounted storage
Indoor vs Outdoor Fixings
Environmental conditions have a significant impact on fixing performance.
Outdoor installations are constantly exposed to moisture, changing temperatures and corrosion. For external projects, choose fixings with protective coatings or stainless steel construction where appropriate.
Typical outdoor projects include:
- Garden fencing
- Decking
- Pergolas
- Gates
- Sheds
- Exterior timber structures
Using indoor fixings outside may result in rust, staining and premature failure.
Understanding Size and Load Capacity
Choosing the correct fixing isn't only about the type of product.
You'll also need to consider:
Length
Longer screws generally provide greater holding strength, but should always suit the material thickness.
Diameter
A thicker fixing can often carry greater loads, but the surrounding material must also be capable of supporting it.
Weight
Consider what the fixing will be supporting, both immediately and over time.
Wall-mounted shelving holding books requires very different fixings from lightweight picture frames.
Common Fixing Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced DIYers occasionally make mistakes when selecting fixings.
Some of the most common include:
Using the Wrong Screw Type
Wood screws aren't designed for masonry. Likewise, drywall screws shouldn't be used for structural timber. Choosing purpose-made fixings delivers better performance and improved safety.
Ignoring Corrosion Protection
Outdoor installations require weather-resistant fixings. Galvanised or stainless steel products help prevent rust and increase longevity.
Choosing the Wrong Wall Plug
A wall plug that's too large or too small reduces holding strength considerably. Always match the plug to both the screw and the material.
Not Pre-Drilling When Required
Some materials benefit from pilot holes to prevent splitting or improve installation accuracy.
Quality Fixings Save Time and Money
Although cheaper fixings may appear to reduce costs initially, poor-quality products often create more work later.
Lower-quality fixings can:
- Snap during installation
- Strip more easily
- Corrode faster
- Loosen over time
- Reduce the lifespan of the finished project
Investing in trade-quality fixings helps ensure every project performs as intended, whether you're completing a weekend DIY job or managing multiple construction projects.
Choosing a Reliable Builders Merchant
A knowledgeable builders merchant can help you select the right products quickly, saving time and avoiding unnecessary trips between suppliers.
When choosing where to buy your building fixings, look for:
- A wide range of screws, bolts, anchors and wall plugs
- Trade-quality products
- Competitive pricing
- Reliable stock availability
- Helpful product advice
- Building materials and tools available in one place
Having everything available from one supplier makes it easier to keep projects moving efficiently.
Find the Right Fixings at DBM DIY
At DBM DIY, we stock a comprehensive range of trade-quality fixings and fasteners suitable for professional contractors, tradespeople and DIY homeowners alike.
Whether you're working on timber construction, masonry repairs, fencing, decorating or general home improvements, our team can help you choose products that are suited to your project.
Alongside our extensive range of fixings, you'll also find building materials, hand tools, power tools, adhesives, sealants, hardware and landscaping supplies, making it easy to source everything you need in one place.
If you're unsure which fixing is right for your application, speak to our team for practical advice and dependable recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are building fixings?
Building fixings are products used to securely join materials together or attach items to surfaces. They include screws, bolts, nails, wall plugs, anchors and specialist fasteners designed for different applications.
What is the difference between fixings and fasteners?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Fasteners generally refer to products that join materials together, while fixings can include additional support products such as wall plugs and anchors.
Which fixings should I use outdoors?
For outdoor projects, choose corrosion-resistant products such as galvanised or stainless steel fixings to help prevent rust and extend the lifespan of the installation.
Why are wall plugs important?
Wall plugs expand within masonry or concrete, allowing screws to grip securely. Without the correct wall plug, the fixing may loosen or fail over time.
Where can I buy quality building fixings?
DBM DIY offers a wide range of trade-quality fixings, fasteners and building materials suitable for both professional tradespeople and homeowners undertaking DIY projects.