Engineering insights for timber construction.
Technical articles, specification notes and project commentary from our in-house structural engineers and the wider Rothoblaas UK network.
Hidden Decking Fasteners: How to Build a Deck With No Visible Screws
A deck with no visible screws looks cleaner and lasts longer. How hidden decking fasteners work, the difference between concealed connect...
Timber Joist Hangers: How to Choose and Install the Right Connector
A joist hanger carries a big responsibility in a small piece of metal. How to choose between face-fixed, concealed, and top-flange timber...
Structural timber screws: how to choose the right fastener in the UK
Structural timber screws carry real load, so the right choice matters. A clear UK guide to fully versus partially threaded, sizing, coati...
Stainless vs Coated Screws: What's the Difference?
Stainless or coated screws? Learn the real difference, when each one matters, and why the wrong choice causes rust stains and failed fixi...
Wood Screws Explained: Which Type for Which Job?
Confused by wood screws? This plain-English guide explains the main types, heads, threads and coatings, so you pick the right screw for t...
How to Fix Fence Posts Without Concrete
You don't always need concrete to set a fence post. Learn how bolt-down and drive-in post bases let you fix posts faster, cleaner and wit...
Which Post Fixings for a Garden Fence or Pergola?
Post bases, anchors or concrete? A clear guide to choosing the right post fixings for a garden fence, pergola or carport, so your posts s...
How to Stop Your Deck Rotting: Joist Protection Explained
Most decks rot from the joists up. Learn how joist protection tape stops water destroying your substructure, and how to make your deck l...
Hidden vs Visible Deck Fixings: Which Should You Use?
Concealed deck connectors or screws through the face? A clear comparison of hidden and visible deck fixings, with the pros, cons and cos...
How Many Decking Screws Do You Need?
A simple way to work out how many decking screws you need for your project, with a worked example and a handy rule of thumb. Order the r...
How to Choose the Right Decking Screws
Stainless or coated? What size? Which screws suit hardwood, softwood or composite decking? A simple, expert guide to choosing decking sc...
Hardware planning in mass timber projects
Why connectors and fasteners deserve early planning on mass timber projects: a single CLT building can need tens of thousands of screws. ...