What are Frame Cramps?

In this blog post, we are going to explore everything you need to know about frame cramps. If you’re new to the construction industry, frame cramps might be an unfamiliar term, however, for seasoned builders and DIY enthusiasts, you will understand that they are just as important as bricks and cement! From large-scale construction projects to modest home DIY undertakings, frame cramps play a critical role in the industry and here is why:

What are Frame Cramps?

Frame cramps are used to tie or fix different materials of a construction project together. They are typically manufactured out of stainless steel, connecting masonry to adjacent timber or steel supports. Their main purpose is to ensure a secure and durable connection between wall materials, helping to maintain the structural integrity of the building.

They are available in an array of designs and styles to accommodate different project requirements. We stock a huge range of frame cramps on our website, all of which we cover below. Another significant advantage of these fixings is their adaptability, making them invaluable for both bespoke and standard constructions.

Why are They So Important?

Every building or DIY project requires a stable structure to stand the test of time, there is no point in spending money and wasting time on a building that is going to collapse in a year – this is where frame cramps come into play. Frame cramps help ensure the longevity and safety of structures, specifically masonry to timber/steel projects. Their design and purpose help to resist high pressured forces such as wind and weight, that could otherwise compromise the building’s integrity.

One end of the frame cramp is built into or fastened to the timber/steel, while the other end is embedded into the mortar joint of the adjacent structure. This bridging ensures a robust bond between the two elements, whether it be tensile or shear, without transmitting excessive loads or creating a thermal bridge. The flexible nature of frame cramps allows them to accommodate minor movements within the building structure caused by factors such as wind and thermal expansion, thereby ensuring the building's integrity and stability over time. Frame cramps are generally used in conjunction with wall ties, to create a fully supportive and strong building.

Due to their design, frame cramps also provide a practical solution for maintaining thermal efficiency. By tying separate wall leaves together without creating a solid connection, they help to reduce heat transfer between the interior and exterior of a building.

BS Fixings’ Range of Frame Cramps

Here at BS Fixings, we understand the importance of acquiring high-quality and reliable frame cramps in your construction endeavours. Our product range includes different types of frame cramps each with its own unique applications. Whether you need a frame cramp for a new build, a renovation project, or just a small DIY task, we have you covered. Find below or most popular frame cramps:

Standard Frame Cramp Wall Ties

Our standard frame cramps are available in stainless steel or galvanised steel, depending on where you are installing them and how harsh the conditions are. They are designed to fix masonry to new or pre-existing structures, creating a bond that prevents sideways movement between the two elements. The standard frame cramp styles are also available with either a slot in the upstand or dowel holes in the projection, which means a wide variety of fixings can be used. The dowel hole frame cramps are more suitable for stone cladding and coping stones.

Frame Cramp Wall Ties

Slotted Frame Cramp Wall Ties

Frame Cramp Dowel Hole Wall Tie

Frame Cramps with Drip

Many of our frame cramp styles have a drip point, which is designed to prevent moisture from crossing the cavity. If your construction project is prone to extreme moisture exposure, frame cramps and wall ties with a drip point are recommended to keep your internal structures and building dry.

Slotted Frame Cramp Wall Tie with Drip

Frame Cramp Wall Tie with Drip

Wire Frame Cramp Tie

Safety Plain End Frame Cramp Tie

The safety plain end frame cramp is used for restraining masonry to steelwork whilst allowing lateral movement, providing restraint in one direction but allowing movement in the other. This is due to a bonding sleeve that allows the tie to move within. The ties span over a vertical joint preventing vertical movement but allowing horizontal expansion and contraction.

Safety Plain End Frame Cramp Tie

All of our frame cramps are available in various sizes, so you can acquire the most suitable one for your project!

Ensuring Quality and Performance

All of the products we stock are manufactured with the highest industry standards in mind, ensuring optimal performance and durability. Constructed from stainless steel or galvanised steel, our frame cramps are robust, resistant to corrosion, and perfect for all types of weather conditions.

The simplicity of installation is another advantage of our frame cramps, designed to facilitate easy and fast fixing, whether you're an experienced builder or a beginner DIY enthusiast.

Selecting the right frame cramp for your project can sometimes be challenging, given the variety of options available. We're here to help you make the right choice. You can find detailed information and specifications for each of our frame cramp products on our website. We also have a dedicated team of experts ready to assist you with your queries, so please feel free to get in touch at info@bsfixings.co.uk if you require more help!