What are insulation board fixings?
Insulation board fixings – often also called EPS fixings or ETICS insulation anchors – are specialist fasteners used to securely anchor External Wall Insulation systems (ETICS) to wall surfaces. They consist of a shank with an expansion zone and a large fixing plate that spreads the load gently across the insulation.
What materials are insulation fixings made from?
The most popular versions use tough plastic for corrosion resistance and minimal weight. For higher loads in concrete or solid masonry, models with a steel nail are used, while all-plastic nails help reduce thermal bridging.
What makes a high-quality insulation fixing?
- Tested load capacity in accordance with ETAG 014
- Correct fixing length – insulation thickness + embedment depth
- Large plate (≥60 mm (approx. 2.36 in)) to prevent sinking
Product recommendation
At BMSC24 you’ll find a wide selection of Protektor insulation board fixings:
- Ø 10 x 100–200 mm (approx. 3.94–7.87 in) with plastic nail – ideal for EPS boards
- Ø 8 x 100–200 mm (approx. 3.15–7.87 in) with steel nail – extra grip in concrete
- Ø 10 x 220–300 mm (approx. 8.66–11.81 in) with steel nail – for thick mineral wool
- Cutter for insulation fixings – flush setting without thermal bridging
How many insulation fixings per m² do I need?
For façades, common practice is 6 insulation fixings per m² (approx. 0.56 per sq ft). In edge zones and in areas with high wind loads, up to 8 may be required.
What is ETICS?
An External Thermal Insulation Composite System (ETICS) consists of insulation boards (e.g. EPS, stone wool or mineral wool) that are fixed to the façade using adhesive and insulation fixings, then reinforced and rendered. This improves the U-value of the building envelope and helps reduce heating costs.
Installation tip
- Position the insulation boards and press firmly.
- Drilling: Ø = fixing diameter, depth = fixing length + 10 mm (approx. 0.39 in).
- Insert the insulation fixing and hammer in or screw in the nail.
- If required, countersink the plate with a cutter and fit a cover cap.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about insulation fixings
Insulation fixings for stone wool vs EPS?
Stone wool and mineral wool require higher pull-out resistance; choose longer Protektor Ø 10 fixings or versions with a steel nail.
Insulation fixings in concrete?
Use types with ETICS approval and a steel nail. Ensure a minimum embedment depth of 25 mm (approx. 0.98 in).
Buying insulation fixings – what should I look for?
Check the substrate, insulation thickness, wind load zone and the required load capacity.
