FEATURES
The properties of a fastener determine how long the structure will hold.
Fasteners and timber:
getting it right
Fastener bond material together and also ensure the material
stays intact for a long time; experts share why fasteners are so
much more than that.
By Ntsako Khosa
B
efore selecting a fastener for a project, there are a
few things to consider such as, the application will
the material go on the roof, outside, indoors on the
swimming pool, deck or patio? Other aspects like, the
length, material it’s made of, location of the project,
accreditation and so on.
“Check if the product has been tested, and what kind of
guarantee it has? Is the fabricator (manufacturer) accredited
or not? Are the nail plate connectors fixed in a controlled
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factory environment or is it a site application? These should
help in making an informed decision,” says Chris Foot,
engineering supervisor at MiTek.
“Once the correct fastener length is determined for the
application one should consider longevity of the structure
that is being erected and ensure the compatibility of similar
materials to ensure the structure and its various
See more on page 28