Frequently asked questions.
Frequently asked questions.
We believe there’s no such thing as a stupid question, especially when it comes to fastenings, which can get confusing. Keith and Richard who run our warehouse and shop are always on hand to help but here are some of the more commonly asked questions:
Yes! We understand that you don’t always want to buy in large quantities so we sell all of our products individually. You get exactly what you want without the waste.
Determining the size of a fastener involves considering several key factors related to the application and the materials being fastened together. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you determine the size of the fastener you need:
- Identify the Fastening Task:
- Determine what you are fastening together (e.g., metal sheets, wood pieces, plastic components).
- Consider the load-bearing requirements and the expected stresses on the fastener.
- Understand Fastener Types:
- Familiarize yourself with different types of fasteners, such as bolts, screws, nuts, washers, rivets, etc.
- Each type of fastener has specific sizing parameters (e.g., diameter, thread pitch, length).
- Consider Material Compatibility:
- Ensure that the fastener material is compatible with the materials being joined (e.g., stainless steel fasteners for corrosive environments, brass or plastic fasteners for electrical applications).
- Determine Fastener Diameter:
- For bolts and screws, measure the diameter of the fastener shaft. This is typically done using a caliper or a diameter gauge.
- Pay attention to standard sizing conventions (e.g., metric sizes like M6, M8, M10, or imperial sizes like 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″).
- Select Thread Type and Pitch:
- Determine the thread type (e.g., coarse thread, fine thread) based on the application requirements.
- Measure the thread pitch (distance between threads) using a thread pitch gauge if necessary.
- Choose Fastener Length:
- Consider the thickness of the materials being fastened together.
- The fastener length should be sufficient to penetrate through all the materials while leaving enough thread engagement for secure fastening.
- Account for Clearance and Head Style:
- If there are clearance restrictions, choose a fastener with an appropriate head style (e.g., countersunk, pan head, hex head).
- Ensure that the head style allows for easy access and tightening without interference.
- Consult Fastener Sizing Charts and Standards:
- Refer to industry-standard sizing charts and tables for guidance on fastener sizes based on load requirements and material compatibility.
- Standards organizations like ANSI, ISO, and DIN provide comprehensive guidelines for fastener sizing.
- Consider Environmental Factors:
- For outdoor or corrosive environments, choose fasteners with appropriate coatings or materials to resist rust and degradation.
- Test Fit and Verify:
- Before finalizing your selection, perform a test fit to ensure that the chosen fastener size and type are suitable for the application.
- Verify that the fastener meets any regulatory or industry-specific requirements.
If you’re uncertain about the sizing or need assistance, give us a call and we can provide guidance based on your specific application requirements.
The measurement of an inch nut or bolt will be listed as the thread size — a number between one and 12 or an inch increment followed by the threads per inch (TPI). If the diameter is less than 1/4 inch, the diameter will be listed as a number between zero and 12; the larger the number, the closer it is to 1/4 inch.
Yes! We stock:
- UNC (Unified National Coarse)
- UNF (Unified National Fine)
- UNEF (Unified National Extra Fine)
- BSF (British Standard Fine)
- BSW (British Standard Whitworth)
- BA (British Association)
Returns Policy
At CBL Fastenings, we want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If you’re not happy with your items – whether bought in-store or online – we’re here to help.
- Returning Unwanted Items
If you change your mind or no longer need an item:
- Timeframe: Returns are accepted within 28 days of purchase (in-store) or delivery (online orders).
- Condition: Items must be unused, in their original packaging, and in a resalable condition.
- Proof of Purchase: Please provide your receipt or order confirmation.
In-Store Returns:
- Timeframe: Bring your item(s) to our shop with your proof of purchase within 28 days
- Condition: Items must be unused, in their original packaging, and in a resalable condition.
- Refunds will be issued to the original payment method.
- We will charge a 25% restocking charge
⚠️ We do not accept returns for custom, special order, or made-to-measure items unless they are faulty.
Online Returns:
- Contact us at sales@cblfastenings.co.uk or call 01323 325319 to arrange a return.
- Items must be securely packaged and returned at your own cost unless faulty.
- Once received and inspected, we’ll issue a refund within 5–7 working days less a 25% restocking charge.
- Faulty or Incorrect Items
We take quality seriously. If you’ve received a faulty, damaged, or incorrect item:
- Please contact us within 7 days of receiving the item (online) or of purchase (in-store).
- Provide details and, if possible, include a photo of the issue.
Resolution Options:
- Replacement
- Exchange
- Full refund (including any delivery charges)
- Exchanges
- Available in-store or via our online returns process.
- Subject to stock availability.
- How to Contact Us
In-store address:
Unit 2, Apex Enterprise Park, Apex Way, Diplocks Way, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3WA
Customer Service (Online Orders):
Email: sales@cblfastenings.co.uk
Phone: 01323 325319
Opening Hours: Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm
We reserve the right to refuse returns if items do not meet the above criteria. Your statutory rights are not affected.