Fixing v fastener
|
| A latch to fasten the window in position. |
Fixings are designed to attach objects to surfaces such as walls, floors, roofs, doors, holding them in place, usually on a permanent basis. They are a form of connector and play an indispensable role in construction. Usually a fixing is key to attach a component to one that is larger or immovable, such as fixing a cupboard to a wall, or a handle to a door, or a timber joist to a wall plate. These instances will require the use of fixings such as screws, plugs, bolts and nails.
In contrast, fasteners tend to be for holding things together, often of a similar nature, and of a smaller- or lighter-scale. In stationary, examples of this would be paper clips and staplers, which are fasteners and hold together sheets of paper – but they are not said to ‘fix’ them together.
In construction, staples from a staple gun can fasten sheathing to timber studs. Window latches are fasteners (not fixings) as they fasten a window for security but can be adjusted for opening. If the doors and windows were fixed in place, they would not be able to open.
Whether something is a fixing or fastener is not always clear as it can depend on the application and also on the way speech is used: a nail can be used to fix fence boards to posts, but it can also fasten a joist into a joist hanger. Yet others may maintain that the joist is ‘fixed’ into position by the nail. Depending on the interpretation, the nail in this example is both a fixing and a fastener.
The word 'fixing' can also be used to describe the physical process of fixing one thing to another or to the process of repairing something.
NB A fixture is '...an asset that is installed or otherwise fixed in or to a building or land so as to become part of that building or land in law’ (for example, a boiler)'. Ref HMRC
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Adhesives.
- Cable tie.
- Clamp.
- Construction equipment.
- Construction tools.
- Crimp.
- Cramp.
- Fixings.
- Fixtures.
- Ground anchor.
- Industrial fasteners market.
- Rivet.
- Sneck.
- Soil nailing.
- Structural fasteners.
- Staples.
- Strap.
- Timber.
- Types of bolts.
- Types of fixings.
- Types of nails.
- Types of nuts.
- Types of screws.
- Types of washer.
- Upcycling buildings.
- Welding.
Featured articles and news
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.