Washers

About Washers

Washers are essential fastening components used to distribute load, prevent damage, and secure bolted or screwed connections across countless applications. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of washers including standard flat washers, penny washers, spring washers, square plate washers, and convenient assorted washer packs. Whether you're a professional tradesperson working on structural installations or a DIY enthusiast tackling home repairs, selecting the correct washer type and size is crucial for creating secure, long-lasting fastenings.

Available in various materials including steel, stainless steel, brass, and zinc-plated finishes, washers protect surfaces from fastener damage whilst improving load distribution and preventing loosening through vibration. MyToolShed offers washers in metric sizes to suit standard UK bolts and screws, with options ranging from small M3 washers for delicate applications through to heavy-duty square plate washers for structural work.

Applications

Washers are indispensable across multiple trades and industries:

• Construction and carpentry: Timber framing, decking, roofing installations, and structural connections
• Mechanical engineering: Machinery assembly, automotive repair, and equipment maintenance
• Plumbing: Pipe brackets, boiler installations, and radiator mounting
• Electrical work: Securing electrical panels, mounting consumer units, and earthing connections
• Steel fabrication: Steelwork assembly, structural bolting, and metalwork projects
• General maintenance: Home repairs, furniture assembly, and appliance installation
• Fencing and landscaping: Gate hardware, post fixings, and outdoor structures

Choosing The Right Washers

Consider these key factors when selecting washers from MyToolShed.co.uk:

• Washer type: Standard flat washers for general load distribution, spring washers for vibration resistance, penny washers for oversized holes or soft materials, and square plate washers for timber and maximum load spreading
• Size compatibility: Match the washer inner diameter to your bolt or screw size (e.g., M8 washer for M8 bolts), ensuring adequate outer diameter for proper load distribution
• Material and finish: Zinc-plated steel for general indoor use, stainless steel for corrosive or outdoor environments, brass for non-ferrous applications
• Load requirements: Thicker washers and larger outer diameters provide greater load distribution for heavy-duty applications
• Application environment: Consider moisture exposure, chemical contact, and temperature extremes when selecting washer materials
• Quantity needed: Assorted washer packs offer cost-effective solutions for varied projects and workshop stock

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a standard washer and a penny washer?

Penny washers have a significantly larger outer diameter relative to their hole size compared to standard washers, making them ideal for spreading loads over softer materials like timber, or for covering oversized or damaged holes. Standard washers provide adequate load distribution for most general applications with correctly sized holes.

When should I use spring washers?

Spring washers (also called lock washers) should be used where vibration or dynamic loads might cause fasteners to loosen over time, such as machinery mountings, automotive applications, or equipment subject to movement. Their split design creates tension that helps maintain bolt tightness.

Can I use galvanised washers outdoors?

Zinc-plated (galvanised) washers offer good corrosion resistance for many outdoor applications, but stainless steel washers provide superior protection in highly exposed, coastal, or permanently wet environments. Always match washer material to bolt material to prevent galvanic corrosion.