Rivets

About Rivets

Rivets are essential permanent fasteners used to join materials together, particularly where welding isn't suitable or access is limited to one side of the workpiece. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of rivets including pop rivets, blind rivets, tubular rivets, and threaded rivet nuts in various materials such as aluminium, stainless steel, and zinc-plated finishes. Our selection includes individual rivets, multi-packs, and complete assortments from trusted brands including Sealey, Rapid, Arrow, and Draper.

Whether you need standard aluminium pop rivets for general fabrication work, waterproof rivets for outdoor applications, or specialised automotive rivets for vehicle repairs, MyToolShed offers options suitable for professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts alike. Available in different diameters, grip ranges, and materials to suit diverse joining requirements across metalwork, construction, and manufacturing projects.

Applications

Rivets are widely used across numerous trades and industries:

• Automotive and vehicle repair: Bodywork panels, number plates, interior trim, and general vehicle restoration
• Metal fabrication: Joining sheet metal, aluminium profiles, and structural steelwork
• Construction and building: Cladding installation, guttering, and roofing applications
• HVAC and ductwork: Securing ventilation systems and air conditioning units
• General engineering: Assembly work where welding is impractical or materials are heat-sensitive
• Marine applications: Boat building and repairs using stainless steel or waterproof rivets
• DIY projects: Furniture repairs, garden equipment, and general household fixes

Choosing The Right Rivets

Selecting the appropriate rivets depends on several key factors:

• Material type: Aluminium rivets suit general applications and are lightweight, stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance for outdoor or marine use, whilst zinc-plated provides affordable rust protection
• Rivet diameter and grip range: Must match the hole size and combined thickness of materials being joined – measure accurately before purchasing
• Head style: Dome heads provide standard finish, countersunk heads sit flush with surfaces, and large flange heads distribute load across softer materials
• Application environment: Choose waterproof rivets for outdoor exposure, high-performance rivets for structural loads, or standard rivets for general indoor use
• Quantity required: Assortment packs from Sealey offer variety for mixed projects, whilst bulk packs provide economy for large jobs
• Compatibility: Ensure rivets match your rivet gun capacity and type

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between pop rivets and blind rivets?

These terms are interchangeable – both refer to rivets that can be installed from one side only, making them ideal when you cannot access the back of the workpiece. The mandrel pulls through during installation, creating the fixing.

Can I use aluminium rivets on steel?

Yes, aluminium rivets work on steel for non-structural applications. However, for outdoor use or where galvanic corrosion is a concern, consider stainless steel rivets or ensure proper surface treatment to prevent corrosion between dissimilar metals.

How do I know what grip range I need?

Measure the total thickness of all materials you're joining together. Select a rivet with a grip range that encompasses this measurement – the grip range is typically marked on packaging and indicates the minimum and maximum material thickness the rivet can accommodate effectively.