Choosing the wrong fastener can cost more than money
From structural failures to safety risks, poor fastener selection can bring major setbacks. Whether you're working in construction, fabrication, or maintenance, avoiding common pitfalls is key to project success.
Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid when choosing fasteners and how to get it right.
1. Using the wrong material for the environment
Mistake: Selecting a fastener without considering environmental exposure (e.g. moisture, chemicals, service temperature)
Why it matters: Carbon steel may corrode in marine or coastal environments, while using coated fasteners or fasteners made of corrosion resistant steel provide better longevity.
Solution: Use galvanised or corrosion resistant material, such as stainless-steel fasteners for corrosive conditions. Always match material to environment.
2. Ignoring strength and load requirements
Mistake: Using fasteners with insufficient tensile or shear strength.
Why it matters: Under-strength fasteners may fail under load, especially in structural or high-vibration applications.
Solution: Select appropriate strength grades (e.g. 8.8, 10.9, 12.9) and consult relevant standards and seek professional advice.
3. Mismatching threads and sizes
Mistake: Combining mismatched threads (e.g. UNC with Metric) or incorrect sizes.
Why it matters: Misalignment can cause loosening, stripping, or jamming during installation.
Solution: Always check diameter, thread pitch, and tolerance. Use calipers and thread gauges where needed – in stock in branch.
4. Overlooking compliance and certification
Mistake: Using unverified or non-compliant fasteners.
Why it matters: Projects may fail inspections or pose long-term risks if fasteners don’t meet required standards.
Solution: Source fasteners that meet Australian Standards or International Standards (e.g. AS/NZS 1252.1, ISO 898-1). Request inspection certificates and check compliance requirements if needed.
5. Check whether you require washers or locking solutions
Mistake: Omitting washers or thread-locking devices.
Why it matters: This can lead to loosening from vibration, damage to surfaces, or improper clamping.
Solution: Use flat washers, spring washers, or self-locking nuts where required. For critical applications, consider thread-locking compounds.
Choose fasteners with confidence
At United Fasteners, we don’t just supply parts - we help you get it right the first time. With access to over 75,000 SKUs and a national team of technical advisors, we support:
- Material selection
- Compliance guidance
- Project specifications
Avoid the risks. Talk to our experts 1300 580 954 or explore our trusted range of compliant fasteners today.