Knowledge Base

Learn the difference between self-drilling and self-tapping screws and when each should be used for cladding installations. This guide explains how self-drilling screws work, their advantages, where they are most suitable, and when pre-drilled fixing methods are the better choice for safe, compliant and efficient installations.

Learn how to choose the right drill bit for aluminium, light gauge steel, stainless steel and fibre cement panels. Discover when to use HSS, cobalt and carbide drill bits for efficient cladding installation and façade applications.

Learn how choosing the right professional rivet gun improves façade installation speed, consistency and long-term performance.

Discover how Mainline paint finishes affect façade fixings, including gloss, metallic, stone, and specialist coatings for cladding systems.

Critical factors for proper rivet installation To prevent panel damage during rivet installation and allow for thermal expansion in material assemblies, a standoff nose piece can be used to prevent the rivet head from bearing against the panel surface. The standoff nose piece will create a uniform space between the rivet head and the...