Fixing Types and Pull-Out Loads by Wall Material
UK fixings reference: wall plugs, anchors, toggle fixings, and chemical anchors with safe working loads for plasterboard, brick, block, and concrete walls.
Wall Plug Safe Working Loads (Tension)
| Fixing Type | Concrete C20 | Solid Brick | Dense Block | Aerated Block | Plasterboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon plug 6 mm (No.8 screw) | 0.5 kN | 0.35 kN | 0.25 kN | 0.05 kN | - |
| Nylon plug 8 mm (No.10 screw) | 0.8 kN | 0.55 kN | 0.40 kN | 0.08 kN | - |
| Nylon plug 10 mm (No.12 screw) | 1.2 kN | 0.80 kN | 0.60 kN | 0.10 kN | - |
| Frame fixing 10 x 80 mm | 2.0 kN | 1.40 kN | 1.00 kN | 0.30 kN | - |
| Nylon aerated block fixing | - | - | - | 0.30 kN | - |
Heavy-Duty Anchor Fixings (Tension)
| Fixing Type | Concrete C20 | Solid Brick | Dense Block | Aerated Block |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sleeve anchor M8 | 3.5 kN | 2.0 kN | 1.5 kN | - |
| Sleeve anchor M10 | 5.0 kN | 3.0 kN | 2.0 kN | - |
| Throughbolt M10 | 8.0 kN | 4.0 kN | 2.5 kN | - |
| Resin anchor M8 | 10.0 kN | 5.0 kN | 3.0 kN | 1.5 kN |
| Resin anchor M12 | 20.0 kN | 10.0 kN | 6.0 kN | 3.0 kN |
Plasterboard Fixings (12.5 mm Board)
| Fixing Type | SWL Tension (kN) | SWL Shear (kN) | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-drill anchor (metal) | 0.10 | 0.15 | Light shelves, picture frames, hooks |
| Spring toggle M4 | 0.15 | 0.25 | Curtain rails, light brackets, mirrors |
| Spring toggle M5 | 0.20 | 0.35 | Heavy mirrors, small cabinets |
| Gravity toggle (Toggler) | 0.25 | 0.40 | Towel rails, heavier shelves |
| Grip-It 15 mm | 0.30 | 0.50 | Radiators, large mirrors, cabinets |
| Grip-It 20 mm | 0.40 | 0.70 | TV mounts (light), heavy cabinets |
SWL values are approximate and vary by manufacturer and installation quality. Always check manufacturer data sheets for specific products. Edge distances and fixing spacings affect performance.
Related Calculators
Use the Fixing Calculator to determine the right fixing for your load, or the Shelf Load Calculator for bracket spacing. See also the UK Screw Sizes reference for screw specifications.
How We Calculate This
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: March 2026
All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.