Hammer fix, nylon plug and frame fixing – what are the differences?

When it comes to securing objects to surfaces, there are three main types of fasteners to use – hammer fix, nylon plug and frame fixing.  

All three are capable of getting the job done to a high standard and all three fasteners are used for projects up and down the country every day.  

But what are the differences between the three? In this article, we will look at all three types and explain what they do and how they differ.  

Hammer fix 

The hammer fix fastener is normally used to secure lightweight fixtures, so things like electrical boxes and cable trays, to concrete or masonry walls via a pre-drilled hole. 

It is a metal anchor sleeve with a pre-installed nail or screw attached to it, with the sleeve expanding as soon as it’s been hit with a hammer, to make a solid hold.  

Able to be used with stone, concrete and brick, hammer fix fasteners are easy to use and you don’t need any fancy tools to install them – just a hammer will suffice.  

In addition, they are a reliable and assured fastener and will never let you down, should you choose to go down that route.  

Nylon plug 

Nylon plug fasteners are also a good fit for lightweight fixtures, but are capable of securing heavier items too, like shelving brackets, curtain rails or picture frames to walls or ceilings.  

They are essentially plastic anchors that have a pre-drilled hole in them, but they can be used in concrete, brick, plasterboard and drywall.  

Much like the hammer fix fastener, it needs a pre-drilled hole and can be fitted with a hammer, before being tightened with a screw. This allows the nylon plug to expand and grip onto the material.  

While there is a little more to do than when using a hammer fix, they are still very easy to install and their versatility is useful.  

Frame fixing 

Last but by no means least, frame fixing fasteners are the go-to when it comes to needing to fit something heavy to masonry, concrete, brick or stone, such as machinery, signage, handrails or structural elements. 

A frame fixing will be made up of a threaded metal sleeve with a screw and is installed after drilling a hole through what is being fastened and the material.  

The sleeve is then placed inside the hole and the screw is tightened, securing the object to the material.  

Something for everything 

All three of these fasteners are incredibly useful, but they all come into their own depending on how heavy the object being fixed is. 

For something light, the hammer fix is the right fit, for things slightly heavier, it’s the nylon plug that’s the best bet and for more heavy-duty fittings, frame fixing fasteners are the answer.  

To speak to an expert to find out further how these three can help you, or to find out what we stock, click this link.