Builders Metal Work

Joist Hangers – Face-Fix & Masonry Solutions

Choose from face-fix joist hangers for timber-to-timber connections and masonry joist hangers for seating joists into brick or blockwork. Adjustable and long-leg variants help you pick up non-standard depths, while return-flange and speed-prong styles speed up location during first fix. Use structural screws or square-twist nails in all designated holes, and seat the joist fully in the hanger saddle for correct load transfer. For external or high-exposure locations, specify stainless where required; otherwise, hot-dip galvanised steel provides dependable protection for most internal applications.

Selecting the right hanger

Match the hanger to the joist width and depth, check safe working loads, and follow the layout on your drawings. Face-fix hangers suit trimmers, trussed rafters and noggings; masonry hangers are ideal for floor zones built into blockwork. Allow for packers only where the manufacturer permits, and avoid cutting or bending parts not intended for adjustment.

Angle Brackets – Corner, Heavy-Duty & Perforated

Our angle brackets cover everything from light corner plates for general framing to heavy-duty angle brackets for high-load joints, ledger support and stair/landing details. Perforated angle and multi-purpose brackets make quick work of site problem-solving—fixing studs to sole plates, picking up door linings, or bracing small timbers. Slotted holes help with fine adjustment before final tightening. Combine with coach screws, anchors or through-bolts as specified to achieve the design capacity.

Fixings and finishes

Builders metal work in this category comes pre-galvanised or stainless to suit interior and exterior use. Use compatible fixings (galvanised with galvanised, stainless with stainless) to prevent bimetallic corrosion. Where brackets bear on masonry, set anchors to the recommended embedment and avoid over-tightening that can crack block faces.

Wall Ties – New Build, Extensions & Remedial

Wall ties connect leaves of cavity walls or tie new work into existing structure. Choose general-purpose wall ties for standard cavity widths, frame cramps for tying timber or steel frames to masonry, and remedial or starter ties when stitching an extension to an existing wall. For coastal or aggressive environments, upgrade to stainless wall ties; for sheltered inland sites, standard stainless grades typically suffice. Always match tie length to cavity size and follow spacing set out on your plans.

Best practice for ties

Keep ties level or with a slight outward fall to shed moisture, fit cavity retainers where specified, and maintain clean cavities. Use the right drip position to reduce water transfer and avoid bridging with mortar droppings.

Buying Guide – Getting the Most from Builders Metal Work

• Measure twice: select joist hangers to the exact joist width for a snug fit.
• Read the datasheet: check load class, hole pattern, and permitted fixings before install.
• Think environment: choose stainless in coastal, pool, plant room or otherwise corrosive conditions.
• Don’t mix metals: keep fixings compatible with the bracket material and finish.
• Mock-up critical joints: a quick dry-fit confirms alignment before permanent fixing.

FAQs

What’s the difference between face-fix and masonry joist hangers?

Face-fix joist hangers attach to timber members (e.g., trimmers, beams) with nails or screws. Masonry joist hangers are built into brick or blockwork and support the joist directly from the wall.

Which fixings should I use with angle brackets and joist hangers?

Use the fasteners shown on the product datasheet—typically structural screws or square-twist nails for timber, and approved anchors for masonry. Fill all required holes to achieve rated capacity.

When should I choose stainless over galvanised?

Use stainless where corrosion risk is higher—external coastal areas, chlorinated plant rooms, or anywhere condensation and chemical exposure are likely. Galvanised suits most internal, dry conditions.

How do I select the right wall ties for my project?

Match the tie type to the application (general cavity, frame cramp, starter/remedial), select the correct length for the cavity, and follow the spacing and pattern on your drawings. Upgrade material in aggressive environments as required.

If you need help matching joist hangers, angle brackets or wall ties to your specification, our team can advise on sizes, fixings and availability.