Insulation fixings and insulation anchors are important components in External Wall Insulation (EWI) systems. They are used to secure insulation boards to the wall and form part of the wider insulation system.
For an EWI project, choosing the correct fixing is important because different insulation materials, wall substrates and system specifications can require different fixing solutions.
At Infinity PM, insulation fixings are available alongside EPS insulation boards, mineral wool insulation, basecoats, reinforcing mesh and other EWI materials.
What Are Insulation Fixings?
Insulation fixings are mechanical fasteners used to secure insulation boards to a building substrate.
They are commonly used alongside an adhesive or basecoat system. The fixing provides mechanical attachment between the insulation board and the wall, while the other components form part of the complete EWI build-up.
The fixing selected should be suitable for the insulation material and the substrate being worked on.
What Is an Insulation Anchor?
The terms insulation fixing and insulation anchor are often used to describe mechanical fixings used with insulation systems.
An insulation anchor generally consists of a fixing body designed to pass through the insulation and connect securely with the substrate. The design of the fixing can vary depending on the intended application.
For this reason, it is important not to assume that one type of anchor is suitable for every EWI project.
Why Are Insulation Fixings Used in EWI?
An EWI system consists of several layers and components. Depending on the specified system, these can include:
- Insulation boards
- Adhesive or basecoat
- Mechanical insulation fixings
- Reinforcing mesh
- Primer
- Finishing render
- Corner beads and other profiles
Insulation fixings form part of this overall system by providing mechanical attachment for the insulation.
The correct fixing should therefore be selected as part of the complete system specification rather than as an isolated product.
What Types of Insulation Can Use Mechanical Fixings?
The appropriate fixing depends on the insulation material and the system specification.
At Infinity PM, EWI materials include EPS insulation boards as well as insulation products such as mineral wool. The range also includes ATLAS TFIX-8M insulation fixings, which are specified for foamed polystyrene boards and mineral wool insulation panels.
Before ordering, always check that the fixing is suitable for the particular insulation board being used.
What Should You Consider When Choosing Insulation Fixings?
Several factors should be considered when selecting insulation anchors or fixings.
1. Insulation Material
Start by identifying the type of insulation being installed. EPS and mineral wool are different materials, so the fixing must be appropriate for the specified insulation system.
2. Wall Substrate
The existing wall or substrate is also important. The fixing needs to be suitable for the substrate into which it is being installed.
3. System Specification
If the insulation forms part of an established EWI system, follow the relevant manufacturer's specification. The fixing should be compatible with the other components used within that system.
4. Fixing Requirements
The required fixing type, dimensions and installation method should be confirmed from the relevant technical information before purchasing materials.
This is particularly important where the project has specific technical requirements.
Insulation Fixings vs Adhesive
Mechanical fixings and adhesive can have different roles within an EWI system.
An adhesive or basecoat can be used as part of the bonding layer, while mechanical fixings provide additional mechanical attachment to the substrate.
For example, Infinity PM supplies ATLAS Grawis U EPS Basecoat Adhesive as well as insulation fixings. These products should not be considered interchangeable; they perform different functions within an EWI system.
The exact combination and installation method should follow the specified system.
What Is ATLAS TFIX-8M?
ATLAS TFIX-8M is an insulation fixing available from Infinity PM. It is intended for use with foamed polystyrene boards and mineral wool insulation panels.
It is therefore relevant to EWI projects where these insulation materials are being used.
As with any insulation fixing, the product should be selected and installed according to the applicable technical information and system requirements.
Why Correct Selection Matters
Choosing insulation fixings based only on price or appearance can lead to problems if the product is not suitable for the insulation or substrate.
Before ordering, check:
- The insulation material
- The wall substrate
- The required fixing specification
- Compatibility with the EWI system
- Manufacturer's technical guidance
- Required installation method
Taking these points into account can help ensure that the mechanical fixing forms the correct part of the overall insulation system.
Buying Insulation Fixings from Infinity PM
Infinity PM supplies EWI materials and building products for UK trade projects, including insulation boards, basecoats, reinforcing mesh, profiles, primers and insulation fixings.
If you are sourcing materials for an EWI project, it is useful to consider the complete system rather than purchasing each component separately.
Need insulation fixings for your EWI project? Explore the insulation fixing range at Infinity PM and check the product specification before ordering.