Versatile fasteners for DIYers

Any homeowner will know that there's also some DIY project waiting to go at all times. Whether you need to do something as simple as hanging a picture or fixing a damaged dinner room chair, you'll need a trusty fastener. Fasteners in Australia are readily available, but with so many to choose from, how can you ensure that you have the right ones for the job? Luckily DIY can usually be completed with a few necessary fasteners, which means that you can easily be prepared for a range of jobs with a simple collection. 

Nails

Nails are one of the most common fasteners in any homeowners' tool kit, providing one of the simplest and most reliable ways to join two or more pieces of wood. While most nails are made of steel, other types are available made from a range of materials. These other nails have been designed to prevent corrosion and increase their holding capacity. In addition, nails are one non-permanent fastening method. This means they can provide a robust and nearly unbreakable joint between multiple surfaces and easily be taken out.

When using nails in any DIY job, around two-thirds of the nail's length must be driven into your surface or wall at the thickest part. You may also find it more difficult when using nails, as some are more prone to bend and damage your wood. 

Screws

If your DIY project calls for some extra strength and holding power, screws are a versatile non-permanent option. Screws can suit almost all DIY projects, whether it incorporates wood or metal. The only consideration you need to think about before using a screw is the placement of your project. If your project is outside, you'll have to ensure that the screws have been made with suitable materials and coatings have been used to increase their strength and chances of rusting. 

When using screws, make sure that two-thirds of the screw is inserted into the base material. You should also drill pilot holes for your screws, so you don't damage your base material. 

Bolts

Although you may not use bolts and nuts as often, they are a handy option in the average DIYer's tool kit. Bolts provide a superior level of strength when compared to standard fasteners and can hold a much larger volume of weight. This means they're the best choice for deck supports, concrete, beam support etc. 

While bolts are known for their strength in more demanding applications, there are also smaller types of bolts you can for hanging items from hollow walls or ceilings. This smaller bolt allows for greater weight than the typical screw and plastic anchor used for lighter items.

Rivets

​​While rivets require more prep work than the other fasteners listed above, they are one of the best permanent fastening solutions. 

Solid rivets are straight pieces of metal with a head rounded over on the other side to create another head. In comparison, blind rivets are composed of a body with a mandrel- this part goes in the gun and is pulled into itself to compress it. 

If you have to take apart your DIY project thats uses rivets, you'll have to disassemble it by carefully drilling it out. Because of this, it's best to save rivets for more permanent applications.

Find the Fastener You Need With Timberfix

With these fastener types, there are very few projects or repair jobs you cannot tackle. To find out more about our range of hardware, fasteners and adhesives you can explore the full range on our website. For more information on any of our products and all enquiries, you can contact us via phone, email or online.