A guide to through bolts
- Read time: 1.5 minutes
- Date: 26 Mar 2024
- Rainscreen & Façades
In this guide we'll go over some frequently asked questions:
What is a through bolt?
Why would I use a through bolt?
How do I install a through bolt?
What are the Index through bolts?
What's the difference between Index and other alternatives, and why should I choose them?
What is a through bolt?
Through bolts, wedge anchors, or metal expanding anchors, are friction anchors - which are inserted into a pre-drilled hole and tightened until the clip at the end of the anchor expands, creating friction against the perimeter of the hole. This ensures the anchor can't move and is securely fixed to the substrate.
There's a lot of choice of through bolts in the market today, including options that cover a variety of sizes - from M6 to M24 bolts.
Why would I use a through bolt?
Through bolts are used as a structural connection and are a cost-effective way of fixing medium and heavy weight fixtures to concrete - including cracked or non-cracked substrates.
Typical applications include metal façade systems, curtain walling brackets, structural steel connections, machinery, balcony railings, street furniture; to name a few.
How do I install a through bolt?
Through bolts need to be inserted into a pre-drilled hole and tightened to a pre-determined torque in line with manufacturer's guidance.
Learn more with our Skills Hub article on how to install façade anchors
What are the Index through bolts?
Index through bolts are the range Fixfast offer, available in a range of sizes from M8-24, in A4 stainless or zinc-plated steel. Extensively tested, these through bolts are ETA approved and CE marked for maximum reliability.
With a fire rating up to R120 (in line with other products on the market), the through bolts are suitable for use within a range of applications, including industrial and marine environments.
What's the difference between Index and other alternatives, and why would I choose them?
The majority of through bolts used in the industry today are approved, tested, and certified for use across a wide range of applications and environments.
So what sets Index through bolts apart?
Each through bolt has a marked embedment depth for best practice when installing, along with a recognisable head marking for easy post-installation identification.
Unlike a lot of players in the anchor market today, we hold a wide range of anchors in stock - so for you that means that your anchors will be on-site the next day. No delays, no fuss - and at a price that you can afford, even for the higher quality A4 stainless anchors. We're not into the business of offering alternatives that won't perform, or don't conform to our high standards of quality - so we can assure you that we'll always put forward a solution that works in your unique situation.
The well-known high level of Fixfast service is more than just before and during installation though - our experienced Technical and Site Services team are available for fastener and installation related queries - over the phone, by email, or even on-site; and for all stages of your construction.
Summary
Which through bolt you choose for your project is largely decided by the application. If you decide to choose Index from Fixfast, you'll be backed up by our support from the initial stages right through to after completion - with maximum reliability, and minimum fuss.
