A new button-head version of Rapierstar’s popular StarFix® masonry fixing enables PVCu and timber window and door installers to work faster and achieve a superior quality installation more easily, thanks to its unique combination of advanced design features.
The new StarFix PFT is an evolution of the long-established FFT, a market-leading plastic plug-free fixing which is designed to be driven directly into many different types of masonry materials following the drilling of a pilot hole. It has been developed to help installers who are increasingly seeking to complete window and door frame installation more efficiently, securely and safely, and in a way that maximises aesthetics.
Like the FFT, the new PFT fixing features a 7.5mm nominal diameter twin hi-lo thread offering multiple benefits. The high thread enables rapid advancement and effective cutting into harder materials, while the low thread provides additional grip and stability. This ensures that the screw bites quickly into masonry, reducing installation torque and preventing material splitting or cracking.
The head design of the PFT, however, is where the key innovations have taken place. PFT is equipped with a Torx socket button head, offering a low-profile finish, which is different to the FFT’s countersunk head.
The button head of PFT has a flat underside which gives it a broad bearing surface to distribute the load evenly across the material surface. This is really important as it reduces the likelihood of the screw pulling through softer materials like wood.
The low profile head design maximises aesthetics too. This makes it ideal for applications where minimal protrusion is required without compromising the screw’s holding power, as well as in mechanical assemblies where a decorative or streamlined appearance is sought.
In addition, as StarFix PFT is manufactured from high-grade carbon steel with a corrosion-resistant clear zinc protective coating, the fixing heads have an attractive silver appearance which means there is no need to use plastic cover caps. This alloy also means the PFT is extremely durable, like FFT, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use, even in environments that experience significant moisture and temperature variations.
Another standout feature of both StarFix options is the T30 Torx drive. This drive system is designed to ensure optimal torque transfer from the driver to the screw, minimising cam-out and providing a secure fit during installation. This translates to easier and faster installations with less chance of damage to the screw head.
The Torx drive also prevents rounding off the screw head, allowing for repeated use and reducing wear on the bit, thus extending tool life – a key consideration for any contractor or maintenance team.
Andy Holland, Technical & Marketing Manager at Rapierstar said: “The StarFix PFT button head masonry screw is potentially a game-changer for building construction and maintenance. When we launched StarFix FFT several years ago, it helped to revolutionise the way window and door frames were installed in that it enabled installers to move away from using fixings that needed a plastic plug. PFT is our latest evolution designed to offer even more advantages.
“The specialist fastener knowledge we have within our team, plus the design and testing technology available in our technical development centre at our HQ in Cheshire, enables us to continuously innovate and respond quickly to trends in the market. PFT has resulted from this process and we think it ticks all the boxes for today’s installers given the feedback we have received from customers already using the fixing, which has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Designed for superior performance in a wide range of construction and building applications, StarFix is engineered for fixing into various masonry materials, including brick, concrete and blockwork, as well as wood substrates.
This multi-material compatibility makes it a versatile choice for projects that involve different types of substrates, such as mixed-material installations, and the ability to securely fasten into both masonry and wood with the same screw is a time-saver on site, as well as helping to streamline inventory and simplifying project planning.
Both the StarFix PFT and FFT masonry fixings are available to order now from Rapierstar and via all approved stockists.