This guide is for DIY enthusiasts and trade professionals seeking reliable fixings for light-duty timber construction. The Forgefix M12 x 150 Coach Bolts offer a versatile and weather-resistant solution for joining timber components. While ideal for applications like garden furniture and fence panels, it's crucial to remember they are designed for **low load-bearing** uses.
M12 x 150mm Size: Standard M12 thread diameter with a generous 150mm length for various timber thicknesses.
Square Neck Design: Prevents the bolt from spinning when embedded in timber, allowing for single-wrench tightening of the nut.
Zinc-Plated Finish: Provides good corrosion resistance, making them suitable for outdoor applications and exposure to elements.
Versatile Application: Primarily designed for joining timber-to-timber, including timber joist construction, garden furniture, pergolas, and fence panels.
Includes Hex Nuts: Each bolt comes complete with its corresponding hex nut for a ready-to-use fastening solution.
Pack of Five: Conveniently packaged in a quantity of five bolts and nuts, suitable for smaller projects or for adding to your existing toolkit.
Low Load Bearing: Specifically engineered for applications where significant structural load is not a factor.
Easy Installation in Timber: The square neck design simplifies installation, preventing rotation.
Weather Resistant: Zinc plating offers good protection against rust for outdoor use.
Secure Fastening: Provides a strong, reliable joint for appropriate timber applications.
Versatile for DIY Projects: Ideal for a wide range of common outdoor timber constructions.
Low Load Applications Only: Not suitable for high-stress or structural load-bearing connections.
Timber Specific: Primarily designed for use with timber; not ideal for metal-to-metal or other material fixings.
Specific Size: M12 x 150mm might be too large or too small for certain specific projects, requiring careful measurement.
Hand Tools Needed: Requires pre-drilling and wrenches for proper installation.
Easy Installation in Timber: The square neck design simplifies installation, preventing rotation.
Weather Resistant: Zinc plating offers good protection against rust for outdoor use.
Secure Fastening: Provides a strong, reliable joint for appropriate timber applications.
Versatile for DIY Projects: Ideal for a wide range of common outdoor timber constructions.
Low Load Applications Only: Not suitable for high-stress or structural load-bearing connections.
Timber Specific: Primarily designed for use with timber; not ideal for metal-to-metal or other material fixings.
Specific Size: M12 x 150mm might be too large or too small for certain specific projects, requiring careful measurement.
Hand Tools Needed: Requires pre-drilling and wrenches for proper installation.
The Forgefix M12 x 150 Coach Bolts are designed to perform reliably in a range of low load-bearing timber applications. Their core strength lies in their simplicity and effective design for wood.
When installed, the square neck of the bolt bites into the timber as the nut is tightened. This crucial feature prevents the bolt from rotating, allowing you to secure the fastening with a single wrench on the hex nut. This makes them significantly easier to use in timber compared to standard hex head bolts.
Garden Furniture Assembly: Securely join wooden components of benches, tables, and chairs.
Pergola Construction: Fasten timber beams and posts together for garden structures.
Fence Panel Installation: Attach fence posts to rails or secure panels where a strong, weather-resistant bond is needed.
Timber Joist Connections: Suitable for light-duty timber joist work where loads are not excessive.
Always remember these bolts are for low load-bearing applications. For heavy structural connections, high-stress points, or applications requiring specific shear/tensile strength, consider alternative fasteners like structural screws or through-bolts with larger washers and higher grade materials. The zinc plating provides good resistance to typical outdoor elements but is not designed for marine environments or highly corrosive conditions.
Measure and Mark: Precisely measure and mark the locations for your bolts on both timber pieces to be joined.
Drill Pilot Hole: Using a drill bit slightly larger than the threaded shaft of the M12 bolt but smaller than the square neck (e.g., a 12.5mm or 13mm drill bit for the M12 bolt), drill a straight pilot hole through both pieces of timber. Ensure the hole is perpendicular to the surface.
Insert Bolt: Push the coach bolt through the drilled hole. If the square neck does not fully engage with the timber, you may need to gently tap the bolt head with a hammer (using a block of wood as a buffer to protect the bolt head) until the square neck is seated firmly and resists turning.
Attach Nut: Place the hex nut onto the threaded end of the bolt. For added stability, consider using a washer between the nut and the timber surface.
Tighten: Use an appropriate wrench (typically 19mm for M12 nuts) to tighten the hex nut until the connection is secure. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the timber.
Materials: Primarily designed for joining timber to timber. Can also be used for timber joist construction.
Environments: Zinc-plated finish makes them suitable for general outdoor and indoor use. Avoid highly corrosive or marine environments.
Load Type: Low load-bearing applications only.
Inspection: Periodically inspect outdoor installations for any signs of loosening or corrosion, especially after harsh weather.
Cleaning: Wipe away dirt or debris to prevent buildup that could trap moisture.
Protection: While zinc-plated, applying a suitable exterior wood sealant or paint over the bolt heads and nuts in highly exposed areas can further extend their lifespan and maintain appearance.