Arguably the best repair work is all about efficiency – and that means having the right fixings on hand. A fair number of everyday repairs involve tasks like reattaching broken fittings, securing loose timbers, or bonding split materials. In these instances, you’ll want fixings that apply quickly, hold firmly, and get the job done. We’ve got no shortage of fasteners and fixings to choose from right here at RC Screws – as well as a lot of know-how on how to use them. So, here are our best suggestions for the top time-saving fixings for quick repairs.
Grab adhesives for fast surface bonding
Grab adhesives are one of the quickest ways to secure two surfaces together. They’re widely used in place of screws or brackets, especially where time is tight or materials are awkward to drill. Most come in cartridges that slot straight into a mastic gun, ready to apply along the length of the item. The bond forms as soon as the two surfaces make contact, and many formulations hold firmly enough to stay in place while the adhesive cures fully in the background.
This makes them ideal for mounting skirting, battens, dado rails, trunking, splashbacks and decorative panels. On smooth surfaces like tile, laminate, sealed timber or metal, grab adhesives stick fast and reduce the number of clamps, fixings or supports you’d otherwise need. Some products are even rated for damp conditions or external use, giving them added flexibility in kitchens, bathrooms and porches. Just make sure to always check the label for drying time and compatibility with your surface type.
Self-drill fixings can help you drive straight into plasterboard
Plasterboard fixings can sometimes crumble or spin if the hole’s not drilled perfectly. Self-drill fixings solve this by creating their own channel as they go in, cutting through the board cleanly and anchoring themselves in place. These are made from tough plastic or zinc alloy and feature a pointed end with sharp threads that dig into the surface on the first turn of the screwdriver.
They’re a strong option for hanging shelves, mirrors, brackets, curtain rails, or anything else where a hollow wall fixing is needed. And since they remove the need to pre-drill or insert a separate plug, they reduce handling time and generally make the process simpler. Once they’re flush with the board, you can insert your screw directly into the collar to hold your fitting in place. They’re widely used in rental properties, refurbs and related maintenance work.
Twinthread woodscrews can help you screw faster into timber
Twinthread screws are made for quick, direct driving into wood without the need for pilot holes. Their double-thread design lets them cut in smoothly and grip better with less pressure, which makes them especially useful for softwood framing, joinery, or repair jobs where time matters. The two threads run in parallel along the shaft and help distribute the load more evenly as you drive them in.
These screws are commonly used for things like timber battens, studwork, joists, chipboard panels and softwood trims. They’re available in a range of lengths and finishes – zinc, brass, or coated – and can often be used straight from the box with a cordless driver. This type of screw saves time during the driving process and also during alignment, because it’s less likely to split the timber or bind partway through. The double thread also makes them easier to remove cleanly if needed later.
Easily bond broken parts with quickset epoxy
Quickset epoxy is a strong two-part adhesive that cures fast and creates a permanent bond across a range of materials. It’s especially useful when something snaps, shears, or breaks off and you need a fix that holds under tension. Most epoxies come in twin syringes or dual-chamber cartridges, so the resin and hardener mix as you apply them. Once combined, the working time is limited – usually five minutes or less – which is what makes them so effective in urgent repairs.
They bond firmly to metal, ceramics, plastics, composites, and some woods. You’ll often see them used for fixing handles, brackets, casings, tools, fixtures, and other items that can’t be clamped easily or drilled. The cured joint resists heat, moisture, vibration and mechanical stress, which means you don’t need to revisit the repair later. The bond sets quickly and doesn’t sag, so quickset epoxy can be used on vertical or overhead surfaces just as easily as flat ones.
Those are just a couple of our top tips. And don’t forget, whatever the job at hand, we’re always here to help at RC Screws. We have all fasteners and fixings you need and more for the very best prices – so whatever type of screw you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find it right here! And of course, if you’d ever like to double-check with a member of our friendly team to make sure you’re choosing the correct screws for your project, just give us a call at 01254 917744 – and we’ll be happy to help!