Choosing the right fixings isn’t just a technical detail, it’s a crucial investment in a building’s longevity, says James Robinson, Sales and Marketing Director of Samac Fixings.

In construction, every part of a building has a role to play in its safety, strength and longevity. It’s easy to focus on the big material like bricks, steel and timber, but the fixings that hold it all together are just as important. Choose the wrong screws, nails or fasteners and you could be looking at serious problems down the line, including leaks, weak spots or even falling foul of building codes. The key is to always use fixings designed for the materials and conditions they will face. Choose correctly, and they will stand up to the elements, meet regulations and keep everything secure for years.

Nails

The Building Regulations lay down clear rules for materials and fixings, making sure they play their part in keeping a structure safe and performing as it should. These standards have evolved over time to address changing conditions and regional requirements. Building regulations, such as BS 5534 for slating and tiling, have become stricter in recent years, particularly when it comes to securing tiles in areas prone to high winds, like Scotland for example, where the most common lengths for slate and tile roofing are larger than commonly used elsewhere.

However, when it comes to nails for new builds, the length is only part of the equation – the service class of nail used is equally important. BS EN 14592 is relevant here as it focuses on the strength and performance of nails, screws and bolts used in timber work. For most covered external uses, like securing roof battens, service class 2 electro-galvanised collated nails are ideal. This service class is the most common type of collated nail – perfect for a wide range of modern nail guns, making installations quick and efficient. But when it comes to cladding, electro-galvanised steel is not sufficient. Since cladding is often fully exposed to the elements, the nails used need to be more corrosion resistant. This is where service class 3 stainless steel nails come in. If a lesser service class is used, they will begin to rust, leaving unsightly stains on the cladding and will eventually weaken the structural rigidity of the boards. So, when choosing nails for different parts of the build, always consider the exposure level and select the suitable service class for the job.

Hooks

It’s not only nails that require careful selection; other roofing hardware like spike slate hooks also need to be chosen with care to prevent premature failure of the fixings. BS 5534 dictates that these hooks should be A4 (316) stainless steel.

However, some contractors still use the less durable A2 (304) grade stainless steel – this is suitable for many general-purpose applications but isn’t as resistant to harsh conditions, especially in coastal or highly exposed environments where salt and certain chemicals in the air can speed up corrosion. A A4 (316) grade stainless steel hook is recommended as it offers superior corrosion resistance and is better suited to withstand harsh weather conditions. BS 5534 also states that specifically spiked slate hooks should be used, yet we still see some contractors requesting batten hooks to do this job. Using the wrong hardware can lead to weaker installations and potentially more costly repairs down the line.

Screws and Fixings

Securing insulation is another clear example where using the correct fixings counts. When securing flat roof insulation for instance, there are several options, such as specialised screws, mechanical fasteners or adhesives. The goal is to select the fastener that offers both strength and efficiency.

Helical fixings are commonly used as they rotate as they’re driven in, preventing timber splitting or bouncing, and they maintain the gap needed so the insulation isn’t squashed. However, they can cause thermal bridging which, as the demand for energy-efficient homes increases, is a significant concern. Warm roof fixings are a great solution to this as they are designed with low thermal conductivity and include thermal breaks to reduce heat loss through the fixings themselves – ensuring the insulation performs as intended over the long term. It’s a small but essential detail that supports wider energy efficiency goals and helps meet compliance requirements.

The upcoming Future Homes Standard reinforces this compliance shift, setting a much higher bar for insulation performance and overall energy efficiency. Thicker insulation is now the norm, which in turn demands longer fixings that can deliver reliable holding power without compromising thermal performance. In response, manufacturers have expanded their offerings to include screw lengths of 220mm and 240mm as part of their ranges, helping specifiers and contractors meet these new demands with confidence. As a result, we have expanded our range of Performance Plus screws to include these longer sizes.

Selecting the right fixings is not just about convenience; it’s about ensuring the safety, durability and longevity of a building. Whether it’s nails, hooks or screws, these small components play a huge role in keeping everything secure and can make all the difference to the success of a project.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

For more information on Samac Fixings please visit www.rdr.link/dbc033

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The pressure is on to deliver sustainably built, high quality new housing, which means that all building materials and products need to be scrutinised in the specification process to understand their potential to make a positive difference. Here, John Abernethie, Founder and Chairman at Birkdale talks fencing – and why modern alternatives can deliver performance and installation benefits, as well as aesthetic value.

Fence posts

Arguably, the most popular materials for fence posts are still concrete and timber. Unfortunately, although both solutions have their individual strengths, they both also have several significant drawbacks. Timber is often the preferred solution for entire fence systems due to its natural aesthetic. However, the material is prone to rotting and warping over time when exposed to moisture. This can lead to the entire fence structure weakening and becoming vulnerable to wind, making it more likely to need replacing in the future.

Although concrete is undoubtably a more durable and stronger solution, it is still prone to cracking and chipping. This allows water ingress, which will eventually lead to the fence post failing. Additionally, the product is bulky, heavy and difficult to install, requiring at least two workers onsite, driving up labour costs and increasing chances of injury due to the weight of the concrete. Finally, it offers limited aesthetic value, which may affect the overall look of the property and its garden.

The good news is that modern fencing solutions are available that deliver all the benefits of timber and concrete with none of the drawbacks. For example, galvanised steel fence post options are designed to offer a durable and stylish solution that can be used with virtually any kind of fence panel. Unlike traditional options, steel posts are available in a selection of colours including Anthracite Grey, Olive Grey, Sepia Brown, Galvanised Steel and Black allowing prospective buyers more freedom when it comes to selecting what they want.

When using galvanised steel, housebuilders can also rest assured that they are not compromising in terms of strength. Cut and cold rolled through specifically made dyes to create a unique H-section profile, the material can achieve superior performance and provide additional corrosion protection when powder coated, offering a fit and forget solution. The product is also tested to withstand high wind speeds and requires no ongoing treatment or maintenance once installed – keeping developments looking smart longer-term.

Finally, galvanised steel offers ease of installation as it is 80% lighter than concrete. This makes the posts very easy to carry, allowing them to be transported to site in one van load, and contributes to a quicker installation. Their light weight also minimises the risk of injury for installers – improving health and safety on site.

Fence panels

Traditionally, timber panels have always been preferred, however they carry the same drawbacks as timber posts. Composite panels offer the ideal alternative as they are durable, hardwearing and can be shaped and textured to emulate the desired finish of timber. Furthermore, they are resistant to UV rays, insects and mould, meaning that they will retain their appearance long-term without the need for maintenance, with an impressive lifespan of up to 30 years.

To help improve the eco-credentials of a development, it is advisable to choose panels made from recycled materials or material by-products, such as those available from the DuraPost® composite panel range. These are made from either a mixture of virgin and recycled high-density polypropylene (HDPE) with rice husks (a natural bi-product from the rice industry), or wood-plastic composite (WPC). Finally, composite panels are available in a wide range of colours too, providing design flexibility and the chance to coordinate the fence with other exterior elements of the development.

Fencing solutions can play a key role in establishing an attractive aesthetic for a development but modern systems can also be installed quickly, safely and once in-situ will contribute positively to a high-quality build for the long-term, that helps to lower environmental impact. Ticking every possible box – it really is worthwhile re-thinking those traditional options.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

More information about the Birkdale’s DuraPost range

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Resin-bound solutions are becoming an increasingly popular option for housebuilders looking to enhance the outside appearance of the front of a property. These resin-bound solutions are not just visually appealing, but also functional and require low maintenance, making them a go-to choice for a longlasting, durable result.

Resin-bound solutions can be used for many different outdoor spaces, including driveways, patios, and pathways, to create a cohesive and seamless look across the property’s exterior.

Below, John Pearce, Co-Director at Oltco, an award-winning supplier and installer of sustainable resinbound driveways, patios, pathways, and more, explains why resin-bound driveways should be the top choice for housebuilders in 2024 and beyond.

What is a Resin-Bound Driveway?
A resin-bound driveway is a surface made from a blend of gravel and stone aggregates coated with clear UV-stable polyurethane resin, resulting in a seamless and smooth finish that prevents puddles, loose stones, and chippings. At Oltco, we are big believers that driveways play a crucial role in setting the tone of a property, showcasing homeowners’ individual styles and preferences. Choosing a resin-bound driveway not only offers a permeable surface but also enhances the overall look of a property’s exterior, often increasing the value of the home.

What are the Benefits?
Resin-bound driveways are a popular choice for their permeability, durability, and low maintenance requirements, resulting in a sleek finish. There are many advantages to opting for a resin-bound driveway, making it an excellent and costeffective option for housebuilders.

Firstly, resin-bound driveways do not require planning permission, which allows housebuilders to easily create a driveway that complements the property. The flexibility of the solution enables it to be moulded into various shapes and designs, resulting in an attractive look. Resin-bound surfaces are safe, seamless, and non-slip, making them ideal for pushchairs, wheelchairs, and bicycles, without any uneven slabs that are prone for causing trips, slips and falls. They can withstand up to 400 tonnes per square metre, making them suitable for even heavy vehicles like buses and lorries.

Additionally, resin-bound surfaces are SUDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage System) compliant. The porous nature of the materials used in the solution encourages easy and quick drainage of water, reducing weed growth and maintaining a neat appearance. This also reduces slip hazards during extreme weather conditions by minimising excess water.

Another significant benefit is that resinbound driveways are low maintenance. The resin bound is easy to clean, and dirt and grime can be quickly removed with a jet wash, helping to maintain a fresh and aesthetic appearance. Due to the resin technology, resin solutions are also suggested to last for up to twenty-five years, whilst also helping to enhance the kerb appeal of a property, which is really important in increasing the value of the home and making it more attractive to potential buyers.

What Differentiates Resin-Bound Driveways from Usual Gravel and Concrete Driveways?
There are many driveway surface options to choose from, ranging from gravel and concrete to tarmac. Resin-bound solutions stand out when compared to traditional driveway surfaces as they are more permeable and offer an appealing and long-lasting finish.

The resin-bound solution mixture is highly resistant to cracks and UV rays, unlike gravel and concrete driveways, which are prone to cracking and loose stones, demanding extensive maintenance. This makes resin-bound solutions a convenient and durable choice not only for driveways but also for various outdoor areas like footpaths and patios. Moreover, these solutions can be personalised with diverse colour blends to enhance the property’s aesthetics, whether aiming for a traditional or contemporary look.

Recycle Bound
Recycle Bound is Oltco’s award-winning innovation, designed for housebuilders and property developers seeking a highly sustainable and durable driveway solution. It is made from a blend of stone and recycled plastic, which includes plastic straws, drink bottles, and food packaging. The waste plastic is sourced from recycling centres, and each square metre of Recycle Bound uses the equivalent of 3,000 plastic straws, making it an exceptionally eco-friendly option. Recycle Bound has been developed to be even stronger than other available resin-bound solutions, having a higher tensile strength, able to withstand even the heaviest of vehicles. It has all of the same permeable properties as traditional resin-bound; however, the solution has a melting point of 250 degrees, meaning that the plastic will not melt in the same way as alternatives like tarmac, even if the UK were to have a heatwave.

Oltco is available across the UK and is the country’s leading sustainable resinbound flooring company offering solutions for driveways, pool surrounds, balconies, patios, stairs, car parks, and footpaths. CLICK HERE for more information.

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