I’ve heard the term fixings and I’ve heard the term fasteners (and I’m sure you have too!) but do they mean the exact same thing? Is it an American English vs British English sort of difference? It might seem silly to some but this question has been on my mind for a few days, so I had to do something about it. Do you ever get these random questions pop up in your mind and they will never leave until you find an answer? I’m sure I’m not alone.
For some expert advice, I turned to Speedy Fixings. This UK-based business has been supplying fixings, fastenings, tools and a variety of other products to the civil engineering and construction industries since 1999. So, they seemed like the right experts to speak to!
What are fixings?
According to Collins Dictionary, fixings can be described as “items such as nails and screws which are used to fix things such as furniture together.” However, Austin Williams, architect, shared with the NBS that the best definition for “fixing is the act of holding and securing an object in place (sometimes called the fixing method).”
What are fasteners?
Fasteners are the preferred term in American English whilst fastenings is a term regularly used in the UK. This term is given to devices that join two or more objects together. Even though the terms “fixing” and “fastener” can be used interchangeably, Country Heart and Home recommends using the term “fastener” for the device used for fixing and the term “fixing” to refer to the act.
Types of fasteners.
There are two main types of fasteners: mobile fasteners and permanent fasteners.
- Mobile fasteners: mobile fasteners, such as bolts, nuts and washers, are easily removed without damaging the union between two objects.
- Permanent fasteners: permanent fasteners, such as rivets and welds, create a permanent union between two objects. Removing a permanent fastener will cause damage to the union.
Importance of fasteners.
Fasteners, from leading manufacturers such as Dyson, are part of our day-to-day. You’ll find fasteners on your desk at work and you’ll see fixings on the bridge you walk on your way back home. Fixings are everywhere and are essential for most structures. But that’s not all! The quality of fasteners is important too.
Chelsea Mama highlights the importance of good quality fasteners, saying “Fixings need to offer a tight seal between materials, and one that will keep secure during a long period of time. Poorly manufactured fixings can easily crack and break (which is the last thing you want in a construction project). So, always opt for good-quality fixings and fastenings for your projects.”
I know it’s not every day that you’ll read something about fasteners and fixings. I mean, it’s not every day that I think about writing something like this. However, as that famous saying goes “beauty is in the details”. Maybe the details themselves might not be the prettiest to look at but their importance is vital to make sure the things you use work properly. Fixings and fasteners are simply fabulous!