UK Timber Connectors & Straps Guide
Framing anchors, truss clips, joist straps and restraint straps with sizes, fixing requirements and BS EN 14545 references.
Framing Anchors
L-shaped connectors for joining joists, rafters and studs to plates and beams. Comply with BS EN 14545.
| Type | Dimensions (mm) | Fixing | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard framing anchor | 38 x 100 x 59 | 4 x 30 mm nails per leg | Joist to wall plate, rafter to plate |
| Heavy-duty framing anchor | 47 x 133 x 75 | 6 x 30 mm nails per leg | Heavy rafters, trimmer connections |
| Skewable framing anchor | 38 x 128 x 63 | 5 x 30 mm nails per leg | Angled connections, hip rafters |
Truss Clips
Secure roof trusses to the wall plate, resisting uplift forces.
| Type | For Truss Width | Fixing | Uplift Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard truss clip | 35–47 mm | 3 x 30 mm nails each side | ~2.0 kN |
| Heavy-duty truss clip | 35–75 mm | 4 x 30 mm nails each side | ~3.5 kN |
Restraint Straps
Required by Approved Document A to tie walls, floors and roofs together. Minimum specification: 30 x 5 mm galvanised mild steel.
| Strap Type | Length (mm) | Section (mm) | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lateral restraint (straight) | 1000 | 30 x 5 | Joists parallel to wall, across 3 joists |
| Lateral restraint (bent) | 1100 | 30 x 5 | Joists perpendicular, turned down wall |
| Heavy-duty restraint | 1200–1500 | 30 x 5 | Gable walls, high-exposure sites |
Joist Straps & Noggin Straps
| Type | Typical Size | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Herringbone strutting | 38 x 38 mm timber or metal | Between joists to prevent twisting (spans over 2.5 m) |
| Solid blocking | Same depth as joist | Between joists at supports and mid-span |
| Metal herringbone strut | Adjustable 150–250 mm depth | Quick-fit alternative to timber strutting |
Related Calculators
See the Joist Hanger Sizes guide for hanger specifications, or the Joist Span Calculator for sizing joists.
How We Calculate This
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: April 2026
All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.