We wouldn't recommend our masonry TufFast fasteners for structural applications, and this is why:

1. Compliance: TufFast masonry fasteners aren't verified to the same standards as anchors and concrete screws are, meaning if you install them in structural applications, the liability involved with any failure is likely to fall to the specifier - which could be you.

   BS8539:2012 has clear rules for selecting fasteners for concrete and masonry, saying that the person choosing the fastener must select an approved anchor, or one the manufacturer allows to be used for the application. Our TufFast masonry fasteners do not have a European Technical Assessment (ETA) for safety critical applications.

2. Pull-out strength: TufFast masonry fasteners are designed to hold fixtures firmly in place, but their pull-out strength can be hugely compromised by inconsistent installation. This is particularly true when the base material is weak or brittle.

3. Shear strength: TufFast masonry fasteners do not have the same strength in application as structural bolts or anchors. This means they will not be able to withstand the lateral forces that can occur in structural applications, especially under extreme conditions like earthquakes or even high winds.

For structural applications, it is essential to use anchors that are specifically designed and tested for such purposes, such as structural bolts or concrete screws. These fasteners are typically made from higher-strength materials, have been subjected to rigorous testing, and are approved for use in structural applications.

In short, TufFast are for masonry fixing - holding back or holding down fixtures such as steel framing systems or flashings. They're not recommended for any application where load calculations are involved or an engineer wants to know how it will perform.

Want to find out which anchor you should use? Check out another of our Skills Hub articles here:

Which anchors should I use for façade applications?