When it comes to fixing objects to walls, Rawl Bolts and coach screws are the two most commonly used options. While they might seem similar at first glance, you need to be aware of some important differences between the two. In this blog post, we will look at the key characteristics of these two fixing methods and help you choose the right one for your next DIY project.

What is Coach Screw?

A coach screw is a fastener with a cylindrical shaft and a tapered point. It is typically used in woodworking and construction to secure wooden components together. The head of the screw has either an internal or external hexagon, allowing it to be driven by either an Allen key or a standard driver bit. Coach screws have superior strength to other types of self-tapping screws due to their design, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications such as decking boards, fencing posts and gate frames.

What is Rawl Bolt?

Rawl bolt is a type of anchor bolt used to secure objects to concrete surfaces. It has an anchorage in the form of a heavy-duty steel sleeve that is expandable when tightened and inserted into a predrilled hole. The sleeve expands to create a strong, secure anchorage, and its superior holding power makes it ideal for use in construction projects where reliable support is required.

Difference Between Coach Screw and Rawl Bolt 

Design

The primary difference between a coach screw and a rawl bolt is in their design. Coach screws are heavy, long screws that have a coarse thread and a sharp point at one end. Rawl bolts, conversely, are thin, cylindrical fixings with a metal sleeve along their length with a threaded central section and a flared end for inserting into the wall. If you want to fix heavy-duty items, coach screws are better suited than rawl bolts. Rawl bolts are better suited for lighter items.

Installation

The second difference between coach screws and rawl bolts is their installation process. Coach screws are relatively easy to install and often require a single fixture hole to attach to an object or a wall. Rawl bolts, in contrast, require you to drill a hole of a specific size, insert the bolt and then use a spanner to tighten it. While this extra work might seem cumbersome, rawl bolts offer a more secure fit as the sleeve expands to grip the wall’s sides, ensuring the object stays firmly in place.

Material

Coach screws and rawl bolts are made from different materials. Coach screws are usually made from hardened steel, whereas rawl bolts can be made from stainless steel, brass, or zinc-plated steel. This material difference directly affects the holding capacity of the fixings. When used in wood, coach screws have a higher holding capacity than rawl bolts. Rawl bolts are a more versatile solution, as they can be used in various materials like concrete, brick, and stone.

Use Cases

The final difference between the two fixings is their use cases. Coach screws are best suited for fixing heavy items like furniture, beams and brackets to wooden structures. They are also well-suited for use in decking and fencing. On the other hand, rawl bolts can be used in a wide range of applications. They are ideal for securing objects to masonry, ceramic tiles, and other materials. Rawl bolts are widely used for installing wall-mounted towel rails, shelves, and frames to walls.

Conclusion:

In summary, we have seen that while coach screws and rawl bolts are popular fixing solutions, they have some significant differences. Choose coach screws when working with wood and planning to fix heavy items, and want a quick and easy installation process. However, if you work with a broader range of materials and anticipate fixing lighter objects, rawl bolts are the better option due to their versatility. Always consider the size and strength of the object you want to attach to the wall when choosing between coach screws and rawl bolts to ensure you make the right choice.

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