A hammer-in fixing (also called a hammer plug or nail plug) is a plastic plug with a pre-fitted screw or pin that you drive into a pre-drilled hole in a single action with a hammer. As it is driven in, the plug expands in the hole and locks in place. It is a fast fastening method for larger quantities.
How it works
The hammer-in fixing combines two actions in one:
- You drill a hole of the correct diameter and depth
- You insert the fixing, with the screw or pin already fitted, through the material to be fastened and into the hole
- You drive the pin home with a hammer; the plug expands and grips
With the screw-headed version, the fixing can later be undone again with a screwdriver; with the nail version, the connection is permanent.
Applications
Hammer-in fixings are used where speed matters and many fastenings are needed:
- Skirting boards, battens, and counter-battens fixed to concrete or masonry
- Cable trays and pipe clips mounted in place
- Façade cladding and insulation boards installed
- Frames set and secured
Points to watch
- Drill the hole to the correct depth — slightly deeper than the plug length, so the plug seats fully
- Choose the right length — add the thickness of the material to be fastened to the anchorage depth
- Substrate — there are separate hammer-in fixings for solid concrete, brick, and hollow blocks
Related terms
- Plug
- Screw
- Fastening
- Frame
- Hammer
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