No matter what kind of job you’re working on, the right fixings are essential. They’re the small but critical components that hold a project together, quite literally. Get the fixing wrong, and it won’t matter how good the materials or workmanship are – the job simply won’t last.
Every tradesperson has their preferences, but there’s a core set of screws, plugs, anchors, and fasteners that consistently appear across various sites, trades, and applications. Having these essentials at the ready saves time, reduces hassle, and ensures you’re prepared for whatever the job throws at you.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top fixings every builder, carpenter, or installer should keep in their toolbox, why they’re useful, and where they’re best put to work – so you can get the job done right, first time.
Wood Screws
Wood screws are a staple in every tradesperson’s kit – reliable, versatile, and used across a wide range of first and second fix carpentry tasks. Whether you're building stud walls, fixing floorboards, or hanging doors, these screws are your go-to for joining timber to timber or timber to other substrates when used with plugs.
Types of wood screws to consider:
- Zinc-plated: ideal for internal use, offering cost-effectiveness with good strength and corrosion resistance in dry environments.
- Stainless steel: best for outdoor or damp conditions, roofing, decking, fencing, and external framing.
- Brass or decorative screws: used for visible finishes, often in furniture or detailed interior joinery.
Some modern wood screws now come with self-drilling or partially threaded designs, making them quicker to use on-site without pre-drilling. Brands like TIMco and Spax are commonly used across UK sites and available in assorted sizes at MP Moran.
Masonry Screws and Plugs
When working with concrete, brick, or blockwork, standard wood screws just won’t do. That’s where masonry screws and wall plugs come in, designed to provide a strong, secure fixing into solid materials without splitting or slipping under load.
In the UK, colour-coded plugs make it easy to match the right plug to the right drill bit and screw size:
Red plugs: for 5.5–6mm drill bits and No. 6 or 8 screws. Great for lightweight fixings into brick or concrete.
Brown plugs: for 7mm drill bits and No. 10 or 12 screws. Common for general-purpose use, especially in heavier-duty applications.
Blue plugs: for 10mm drill bits and larger screws, offering a stronger hold for heavier loads or softer masonry.
Alternatively, masonry screws (often called concrete screws or frame fixings) can be used without plugs. These are self-tapping and cut directly into the material, offering quick installation and excellent hold, especially in newer builds or dense blockwork.
Drywall Screws
Drywall screws are purpose-built for fixing plasterboard to timber or metal studs, making them a must-have for any tradesperson involved in internal wall construction, ceiling work, or room renovations. They’re designed to offer fast driving, a strong hold, and a clean finish, without damaging the board surface.
There are two main thread types:
- Coarse thread: Designed for timber studs. The wider threads grip wood securely and drive in quickly.
- Fine thread: Best for metal studwork. The closer thread pitch provides better hold in thinner metal without stripping.
For best results, always match screw length to board thickness and ensure they don’t protrude or sit too deep, which could weaken the board around the head.
Self-Tapping and Self-Drilling Screws
When working with metal or sheet materials, self-tapping and self-drilling screws are essential for fast, secure fixings, particularly in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and general M&E installations.
Though often confused, the two serve slightly different purposes:
Self-tapping screws cut their thread into pre-drilled holes in metal or plastic. They’re ideal when precise placement is needed or when you want to avoid splitting brittle materials.
Self-drilling screws (commonly called Tek screws) have a built-in drill point that eliminates the need for pilot holes, saving time on site. They’re particularly useful for fixing metal cladding, roofing sheets, or steel framing.
Both types come in a variety of head styles, including hex, pan, and countersunk, and are often zinc-coated or stainless steel for corrosion resistance, especially in external or high-moisture environments.
Choosing the right screw type helps ensure a strong, clean fix without damaging the materials – especially when working with thin metals or where aesthetics matter.
Frame Fixings
Frame fixings are designed specifically for securing timber or uPVC frames, such as door and window frames, directly to masonry surfaces like brick, concrete, or blockwork. They’re a go-to solution for tradespeople needing a strong, stable fixing where precision and durability are essential.
Key uses for frame fixings include:
- Installing door and window frames
- Securing timber battens or wall plates
- Fixing conduit, pipe brackets, or timber to solid walls
They are usually countersunk for a flush finish and come in various lengths and diameters to suit different substrates and frame depths. For heavier-duty applications, reinforced nylon plugs and anti-rotation lugs help improve grip and stability in weaker materials.
Anchors and Shield Bolts
When it comes to high-load applications, like fixing structural steel, heavy machinery, or safety-critical supports, anchors and shield bolts provide the strength and reliability that standard screws simply can’t match. These heavy-duty fixings are essential for any tradesperson working with concrete, brick, or blockwork where significant holding power is required.
The most common anchors that you see include:
- Through-bolts: designed for fixing into concrete where the bolt passes through the item being secured and expands once tightened. Ideal for handrails, posts, and base plates.
- Shield anchors: also known as rawl bolts, these use a metal sleeve that expands when the bolt is tightened, providing a strong grip in masonry. Common in fixing brackets, structural steel, and large frames.
- Resin anchors: used where vibration, moisture, or poor substrate quality could cause mechanical anchors to fail. A two-part resin is injected into a drilled hole, and the stud is inserted before the resin cures, creating a high-strength, chemical bond.
Correct installation is key, especially for structural applications. Always check anchor depth, torque settings, and load ratings to meet safety standards on site.
The Small Fixings That Save the Day
No tradesperson wants to be caught out by missing fixings halfway through a job. That’s where small components like washers, nuts, and assorted fixings packs come in handy. These might not be the most glamorous items in your toolbox, but they’re often the difference between a job that runs smoothly and one that stalls unexpectedly.
Having a mix of washers, flat, spring, or penny, ensures you can spread the load, protect surfaces, or prevent fixings from loosening over time. Likewise, keeping spare nuts in a variety of thread sizes gives you flexibility on site when dealing with bolts, threaded rods, or anchor systems.
Investing in assorted fixings packs or organiser boxes means you’ll always have the right screw, plug, or washer close to hand.
Keep Your Toolbox Fully Stocked
No matter your trade, the right fixings form the backbone of any well-executed job. From timber screws and frame fixings to anchors and drywall screws, having a reliable selection in your toolbox ensures you’re equipped to tackle everything from first fix to final finish.
Well-chosen fixings don’t just speed up work – they deliver strength, safety, and a more professional result. Whether you're dealing with timber, masonry, metal, or board, preparation matters. And being stocked with the right types means fewer delays, fewer returns to site, and greater confidence in every fix.
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