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Metal plate fixings

Metal plate fixings are used specifically for either fixing timber together or timber to another material.

These fixings may use nails, screws or bolts as part of the system.

Information provided here is in addition to the design and specifications of these fixings covered in other pages on this site.

 

Nail- and screw-on fixings

Nail- and screw-on fixings are typically light gauge (about 1 mm thick) pre-galvanised steel, although hot dipped galvanised and stainless steel is also available.

These connectors tend to be used when a high-strength, low-cost joint is required and visual attractiveness is not a high priority.

 

Bolt-on fixings

Bolt-on fixings are typically manufactured from 3, 5 or 6 mm thick steel and hot dip galvanised during the manufacturing process.

Stainless steel and powder coating finishes are available. Bolts are usually manufactured from 12 mm hot dip galvanised steel.

T bracket with M12 bolts.

Photo: Courtesy MiTek.

 

Toothed metal connector plates

Another type of fixing is the toothed truss connector plate. This is a steel plate with multiple spikes or teeth projecting from one face.

The connectors are pressed into the timber using hydraulic or pneumatic presses. Timber elements can be efficiently joined together to make trusses and other structural timber components.

 

Availability

In New Zealand, there are two companies supplying metal plate fixings: MiTek (which market under the brand names Gang-Nail, Lumberlok and Bowmac) and Pryda.

Products are sold through building supply companies such as PlaceMakers, Carters, Bunnings, Mitre 10 and other independent suppliers.

Availability information on the following:

  • Nail and screw-on fixings.
  • Bolt-on fixings.
  • Toothed metal connector plates.

Availability of metal plate fixings - Printable PDF

 

Key points

  • Metal plate fixings are often used to efficiently fix either timber together or timber to another member.
  • Can use nails, screws or bolts as part of the system, or have teeth to fix to the timber.Products are manufactured under the brand names Pryda, MiTek, Gang-Nail, Lumberlok and Bowmac.