A new button-head version of Rapierstar's STARFIX® masonry fixing, which incorporates a combination of advanced design features, enables PVCu and timber window and door installers to work faster and achieve a superior-quality installation more easily.
Available in the most commonly used frame fixing sizes, the new STARFIX PFT is an evolution of the long-established FFT, a plug-free screw designed as an effective through-anchor, which interlocks directly into masonry and typical concrete materials after drilling a suitable pilot hole.
Like the FFT, the new PFT fixing features a 7.5mm nominal diameter twin hi-lo thread, offering multiple benefits. The high threads aggressively cut into the substrate to maximise grip and holding power, while the lower threads reduce insertion torque and facilitate dust clearance from the tapped thread path. This combination ensures improved load distribution, minimised radial cracking, and enhanced installation efficiency.
The key innovations have occurred in the PFT's head design, The PFT is equipped with a Torx socket button head, offering a low-profile finish, which is different from the FFT's partial countersunk head.
PFT's button head has a flat underside, giving it a broad bearing surface to distribute the load evenly across the material surface. This reduces the likelihood of the screw pulling through softer materials like wood. The low-profile head design maximises aesthetics too, making 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.
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.
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 of 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 pre-installation fixings that needed a plug or sleeve. PFT is our latest evolution and is 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 it ticks all the boxes for today's installers, given the feedback we have received from customers who are already using the fixing, which has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Designed for a wide range of construction and building applications, STARFIX is engineered for fixing into various materials, including brick, concrete, blockwork, and natural wood substrates. STARFIX PFT is available in sizes to meet the vast majority of routine window and door projects, with the FFT offering a solution for larger units.
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 secure 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.
The STARFIX PFT and FFT masonry fixings are available to order now from Rapierstar and via all approved stockists.
