{"product_id":"newton-newtonite-cob-plugs-expanding-membrane-fixings","title":"Newton Newtonite Cob Plugs","description":"\u003cp\u003eNewton Newtonite Cob Plugs (Newton product reference A17) are specialist expanding-stem fixing plugs designed for securing Newton damp proofing membranes to weak, friable, undulating or low-density substrates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasuring \u003cstrong\u003e10mm wide x 90mm long\u003c\/strong\u003e, they are used in situations where standard membrane fixing plugs may not achieve adequate grip, particularly on cob construction, soft historic brickwork, deteriorated blockwork and friable stone. The supplied pin is driven through the centre of the plug, expanding the stem into the substrate to create stronger anchorage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNewtonite Cob Plugs are well suited to above-ground damp proofing applications with both Newton meshed and non-meshed membranes, with a recommended fixing density of 16 plugs per m².\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDescription\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features of Newton Newtonite Cob Plugs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e✔️ Expanding-stem fixing plugs designed to secure damp proofing membranes to weak, friable or low-density substrates.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔️ Supplied pin drives through the plug centre, expanding the stem for stronger anchorage in poor backgrounds.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔️ Measuring 10mm x 90mm, installed using a 10mm SDS drill bit for a reliable secure fixing.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔️ Suitable for cob construction, soft historic brickwork, deteriorated blockwork and friable stone in older properties.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔️ Recommended at 16 plugs per m², compatible with both Newton meshed and non-meshed damp proofing membranes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(88, 88, 88);\"\u003eSpecialist Expanding Membrane Fixings For Weak Friable And Soft Wall Substrates\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNewton Newtonite Cob Plugs are specialist damp proofing membrane fixings developed for use within the Newtonite Damp Proofing System, particularly in situations where the substrate is too weak, soft, uneven or friable for standard fixing plugs to perform reliably. In many older properties, internal walls may be constructed from cob, soft brick, deteriorated masonry, low-density blockwork or friable stone, all of which can make dependable membrane fixing genuinely challenging. Ordinary plaster plugs or standard membrane fixings may fail to grip adequately in these backgrounds, resulting in poor membrane restraint and unwanted movement beneath the final wall finish. Newtonite Cob Plugs have been designed to address this directly through an expanding-stem fixing action that delivers meaningfully improved anchorage in poor-quality base material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(88, 88, 88);\"\u003eExpanding Stem Pin Action Delivers Reliable Anchorage In Difficult Backgrounds\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach Newtonite Cob Plug measures 10mm in width by 90mm in length and is installed using a 10mm SDS drill bit to create a clean, accurate fixing hole through the membrane and into the substrate. Once correctly positioned, the supplied pin is driven down through the centre of the plug, expanding the stem inside the drilled hole and helping it grip into the surrounding material far more effectively than a conventional straight plug ever could. This expansion mechanism is the defining feature of the product and precisely what makes the Cob Plug well suited to securing damp proofing membranes and lining boards to weak, friable or uneven walls where standard fixings would prove unreliable. For higher risk damp situations, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.platinumchemicals.co.uk\/products\/newton-mastic-sealant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e should be applied to the inside of the plug head before fixing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(88, 88, 88);\"\u003eRecommended For Above-Ground Damp Proofing In Heritage And Older Buildings\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNewtonite Cob Plugs are used above ground with both Newton meshed and non-meshed damp proofing membranes, with Newton recommending a fixing density of 16 plugs per square metre to provide adequate restraint against uneven or irregular backgrounds before the chosen finish is applied. Their main purpose is to secure the membrane firmly to the wall, effectively separating the internal finish from damp, salt-contaminated or structurally unstable masonry. They prove especially valuable in older buildings and heritage refurbishment projects, where damp proofing must be carried out on substrates that cannot be treated in the same way as modern dense brick or concrete block. For users searching for damp proof membrane fixings for cob walls, fixings for friable brickwork or expanding damp proofing membrane plugs, Newtonite Cob Plugs provide a dependable and practical solution.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table-wrap {\n    width: 100%;\n    max-width: 100%;\n    overflow-x: auto;\n    -webkit-overflow-scrolling: touch;\n    margin: 24px 0;\n  }\n\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table {\n    width: 100%;\n    min-width: 620px;\n    table-layout: fixed;\n    border-collapse: collapse;\n    font-family: inherit;\n    font-size: 16px;\n    line-height: 1.25;\n    color: #111;\n    background: #fff;\n  }\n\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table col:nth-child(1) { width: 38%; }\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table col:nth-child(2) { width: 62%; }\n\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table th,\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table td {\n    border: 5px solid #fff;\n    padding: 8px 12px;\n    vertical-align: middle;\n    font-weight: 400;\n  }\n\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table .pc-main-title th {\n    background: #7f7f7f;\n    color: #fff;\n    text-align: center;\n    text-transform: uppercase;\n    font-size: 30px;\n    line-height: 1.15;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    letter-spacing: 0.2px;\n    padding: 12px 10px;\n  }\n\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table .pc-column-head th {\n    background: #a6a6a6;\n    color: #111;\n    font-size: 17px;\n    line-height: 1.2;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    text-align: left;\n    padding: 10px 12px;\n  }\n\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table .pc-data-row td {\n    background: #fff;\n    text-align: left;\n  }\n\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table .pc-data-row.pc-grey td {\n    background: #d9d9d9;\n  }\n\n  .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table .pc-spec-cell {\n    font-weight: 700;\n  }\n\n  @media screen and (max-width: 767px) {\n    .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table {\n      font-size: 14px;\n      min-width: 600px;\n    }\n\n    .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table th,\n    .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table td {\n      padding: 7px 9px;\n      border-width: 4px;\n    }\n\n    .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table .pc-main-title th {\n      font-size: 24px;\n      padding: 10px 8px;\n    }\n\n    .pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table .pc-column-head th {\n      font-size: 15px;\n      padding: 9px;\n    }\n  }\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003ctable aria-label=\"Newton Newtonite Cob Plugs Technical Information\" class=\"pc-newton-cob-plugs-tech-table\"\u003e\n\u003ccolgroup\u003e \u003ccol\u003e \u003ccol\u003e \u003c\/colgroup\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-main-title\"\u003e\n\u003cth colspan=\"2\"\u003eTechnical Information\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-column-head\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDetail\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eNewton Product Reference\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA17\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row pc-grey\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003ePlug Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10mm x 90mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eDrill Hole Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10mm SDS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row pc-grey\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eFixing Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExpanding-stem plug\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eFixing Method\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePin driven through centre\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row pc-grey\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eMain Use\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeak substrate membrane fixing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eSuitable System\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNewtonite Damp Proofing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row pc-grey\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eSuitable Membranes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMeshed and non-meshed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eSuitable Substrates\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCob, soft brick, friable stone\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row pc-grey\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eOther Substrates\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLow-density blockwork\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eApplication Area\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbove-ground walls\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row pc-grey\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eFixing Density\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e16 plugs\/m²\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eOptional Sealant\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row pc-grey\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eSecondary Use\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLining board fixing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"pc-data-row\"\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"pc-spec-cell\"\u003eMain Benefit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eImproved grip in poor masonry\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Benefits\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExpanding-Stem Fixing Design: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe supplied pin expands the stem of the plug inside the drilled hole, helping create stronger anchorage in weak, friable or low-density substrates in situations where standard fixing plugs may fail to hold properly.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuitable for Cob Construction: \u003c\/strong\u003eNewtonite Cob Plugs are specifically well suited to cob walls and similar traditional building materials, making them genuinely useful in older properties where standard masonry fixings are often unreliable.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDesigned for Poor-Quality Base Material:\u003c\/strong\u003e The plug has been designed for soft historic brickwork, deteriorated blockwork, friable stone and other unstable backgrounds, where ordinary plaster plugs or standard membrane fixings may not achieve sufficient grip.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatible with Meshed and Non-Meshed Membranes: \u003c\/strong\u003eNewtonite Cob Plugs can be used above ground with both Newton meshed and non-meshed damp proofing membranes, giving flexibility across different Newtonite system specifications.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStrong Mechanical Membrane Restraint:\u003c\/strong\u003e The 90mm plug length and expanding action help secure the membrane firmly against the substrate, reducing the risk of loose areas, drumming or movement beneath the internal finish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended 16 Plugs Per m² Fixing Density: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe stated fixing rate provides a close and consistent fixing pattern, helping support reliable membrane installation on uneven, friable or difficult wall surfaces.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUseful with Newtonite 801 Mastic:\u003c\/strong\u003e In higher risk damp situations, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.platinumchemicals.co.uk\/products\/newton-mastic-sealant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e can be applied inside the plug head before fixing, helping to form a damp-resistant seal around the fixing point.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupports Damp Separation Systems: \u003c\/strong\u003eBy holding the membrane securely, the plug helps create a physical separation between damp masonry and the internal wall finish, reducing the risk of damp or salts affecting the finished surface.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuitable for Lining Board Fixing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Newtonite Cob Plugs can also be used for securing lining boards to poor-quality base material, supporting refurbishment work in situations where direct fixing into the substrate is difficult.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePractical for Older Building Refurbishment: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe plug is particularly useful in renovation and remedial damp proofing projects where the condition of the wall varies and a more adaptable fixing solution is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTypical Applications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCob Wall Damp Proofing: Newtonite Cob Plugs are used to fix damp proofing membranes to cob construction, where the soft and uneven nature of the substrate makes ordinary fixings unsuitable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFriable Brickwork Repairs: Well suited to soft historic brickwork or deteriorated masonry, in situations where standard plaster plugs may not grip securely enough to hold a damp proofing membrane in place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLow-Density Blockwork Fixing: The expanding stem helps improve anchorage in weaker blockwork, making the plugs useful in situations where a conventional fixing might pull loose or fail under membrane tension.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFriable Stone Substrates: Appropriate for certain stone backgrounds where the surface is irregular, soft or crumbly, provided the substrate can still accept a drilled fixing and hold the expanded plug securely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNewtonite Damp Proofing System Installations: Designed for use within the Newtonite Damp Proofing System, particularly where Newton membranes must be fixed to weak or irregular above-ground wall surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFixing Meshed Damp Proof Membranes: Well suited to securing meshed membranes that will receive plaster, render or other compatible finishes, helping ensure the membrane remains stable before finishing work begins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFixing Non-Meshed Damp Proof Membranes: Can be used with Newton non-meshed damp proofing membranes where the installation requires secure mechanical fixing to difficult wall backgrounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLining Board Installations: Useful for fixing lining boards to poor-quality base material, in situations where the substrate does not provide adequate grip for ordinary fixings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeriod Property Refurbishment: Well suited to damp proofing work in older buildings where walls may be uneven, moisture affected, salt contaminated or constructed from non-modern materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHigher Risk Damp Wall Situations: Can be used with \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.platinumchemicals.co.uk\/products\/newton-mastic-sealant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e at the plug head in situations where additional damp resistance is required around the fixing penetration.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFAQ's\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) What are Newtonite Cob Plugs and what are they designed for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) Newton Newtonite Cob Plugs (Newton product reference A17) are specialist expanding-stem fixing plugs designed for securing Newton damp proofing membranes to weak, friable, undulating or low-density substrates. Measuring 10mm wide x 90mm long, they are used in situations where standard membrane fixing plugs may not achieve adequate grip, particularly on cob construction, soft historic brickwork, deteriorated blockwork and friable stone. The supplied pin is driven through the centre of the plug, expanding the stem into the substrate to create stronger anchorage. Newtonite Cob Plugs are well suited to above-ground damp proofing applications with both Newton meshed and non-meshed membranes, with a recommended fixing density of 16 plugs per m² for reliable membrane restraint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) What makes Newtonite Cob Plugs different from standard membrane fixing plugs?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) Newtonite Cob Plugs differ from standard membrane fixing plugs through their expanding-stem fixing action. Standard membrane plugs rely on friction between a straight plug body and the surrounding masonry to achieve anchorage. In weak, soft or friable substrates, this friction is often insufficient, resulting in loose fixings, poor membrane restraint or plugs pulling out under tension. The Cob Plug addresses this by incorporating a supplied pin that is driven through the centre of the plug after installation, physically expanding the stem inside the drilled hole. This mechanical expansion creates a much stronger grip in poor-quality base material, making the plug reliable in situations where conventional fixings consistently fail, particularly on cob walls, soft historic brick and deteriorated masonry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) Where are Newtonite Cob Plugs used in damp proofing work?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) Newtonite Cob Plugs are designed for above-ground damp proofing applications within the Newton Newtonite Damp Proofing System, particularly where the wall substrate is too weak, soft or friable for standard fixing plugs. Typical uses include fixing damp proofing membranes to cob construction, friable historic brickwork, low-density blockwork and certain soft or irregular stone backgrounds. They are also used for securing lining boards to poor-quality base material and for damp proofing work in period property refurbishment where wall conditions vary considerably. Both Newton meshed and non-meshed damp proofing membranes can be secured using Cob Plugs, making them versatile across different Newtonite system specifications. In higher risk damp situations, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.platinumchemicals.co.uk\/products\/newton-mastic-sealant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e can be applied at the plug head for additional protection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) When should Newtonite Cob Plugs be used instead of Newton Newlath Plugs?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) Newtonite Cob Plugs should be used instead of Newton Newlath Plugs whenever the wall substrate is too weak, friable or undulating to provide reliable anchorage for a standard membrane fixing plug. Newlath Plugs are suitable for reasonably sound masonry backgrounds such as standard brick, concrete and blockwork, where a straight plug can achieve adequate grip. Cob Plugs are the correct choice in situations where the masonry is soft, deteriorated, low density or irregular, including cob construction, soft historic brick, friable stone and poorly bonded blockwork. If there is any doubt about whether the substrate will hold a standard fixing, the expanding-stem action of the Cob Plug provides a more dependable mechanical solution for securing Newton damp proofing membranes to challenging wall backgrounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) What are the main advantages of Newtonite Cob Plugs?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) Newtonite Cob Plugs offer a strong combination of practical advantages for damp proofing work on difficult substrates. The expanding-stem design provides stronger anchorage in weak, friable and low-density materials where standard fixings consistently fail. The 90mm length combined with pin-driven expansion gives reliable grip in cob, soft brick, deteriorated blockwork and friable stone. They are compatible with both meshed and non-meshed Newton damp proofing membranes and can also be used for lining board fixing. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.platinumchemicals.co.uk\/products\/newton-mastic-sealant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e can be applied inside the plug head for additional damp resistance in higher risk situations. At the recommended density of 16 plugs per m², they provide a close, consistent fixing pattern that holds the membrane firmly against even uneven and irregular wall surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) What technical specifications do Newtonite Cob Plugs have?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) Newtonite Cob Plugs measure 10mm in width by 90mm in length and are installed using a 10mm SDS drill bit. Each plug is supplied with a separate pin that is driven through the centre of the plug after it has been positioned through the membrane and into the drilled hole. Driving the pin expands the stem of the plug inside the substrate, creating mechanical anchorage through physical expansion rather than simple friction. The recommended fixing density is 16 plugs per m², providing a close and consistent fixing pattern on uneven, friable or difficult wall surfaces. The Newton product reference for the Cob Plug is A17. They are suitable for above-ground use with both Newton meshed and non-meshed damp proofing membranes within the Newtonite Damp Proofing System.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) How are Newtonite Cob Plugs installed correctly?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) To install Newtonite Cob Plugs correctly, first position the Newton damp proofing membrane on the wall and confirm the substrate is as stable as possible for drilling. Using a 10mm SDS drill bit, drill through the membrane and into the wall substrate to a suitable depth for the 90mm plug. Where \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.platinumchemicals.co.uk\/products\/newton-mastic-sealant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e sealing is required, apply mastic to the inside of the plug head before insertion. Push the plug through the membrane and into the drilled hole, ensuring it is seated squarely and the head sits against the membrane face. Drive the supplied pin through the centre of the plug, expanding the stem against the surrounding substrate to create the mechanical anchorage. Check each plug is firm and the membrane is held evenly and tightly against the wall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) What is the role of Newtonite 801 Mastic when used with Newtonite Cob Plugs?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.platinumchemicals.co.uk\/products\/newton-mastic-sealant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e is applied to the inside of the plug head before installation in higher risk damp wall situations where additional protection around the fixing penetration is required. The mastic creates a damp-resistant seal around the plug head as it is driven through the membrane into the substrate, reducing the risk of damp or moisture tracking through the fixing point and reaching the internal wall finish. In standard above-ground damp proofing with lower risk conditions, the Cob Plugs may be installed without mastic, but incorporating mastic sealing provides a more robust detail in challenging environments. This is particularly relevant when fixing membranes to cob walls, soft historic brick or other substrates that are associated with significant residual moisture or hygroscopic salt activity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) What substrates are Newtonite Cob Plugs suitable for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) Newtonite Cob Plugs are designed specifically for weak, friable, low-density or undulating substrates where standard membrane fixings are unreliable. Suitable substrates include cob construction, which is a traditional building material found in many older UK properties, soft historic brickwork that has lost strength through age or deterioration, low-density blockwork where the block composition does not provide adequate grip for a straight fixing plug, and certain friable or irregular stone backgrounds where mechanical expansion can still create useful anchorage. The key suitability criterion is whether the substrate can accept a 10mm drilled hole and hold the expanded plug stem in position. Where masonry is so severely deteriorated that it cannot retain any fixing, localised repairs should be carried out before membrane installation begins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) Are there practical tips for getting the best results when installing Newtonite Cob Plugs?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) For the best results when installing Newtonite Cob Plugs, inspect the substrate carefully before beginning and carry out localised repairs on any severely crumbling or unstable masonry. Use a 10mm SDS drill bit to form clean, controlled holes, avoiding excessive force that could further disturb friable surrounding material. Position the membrane carefully before drilling to ensure fixing locations correspond to a suitable layout at the recommended 16 plugs per m² density. Where higher risk damp conditions exist, prepare \u003cstrong\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/strong\u003e in advance and apply it inside the plug head before each fixing. After driving the expansion pin through each plug, check it is firmly anchored and not loose. Ensure the membrane is held tightly and evenly across the full wall area before applying any plaster, render or dry-lining finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) What finishing systems can be used over membranes fixed with Newtonite Cob Plugs?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) Membranes secured with Newtonite Cob Plugs can receive a range of internal finishing systems, depending on the membrane type and the project specification. Where a meshed Newton damp proofing membrane is used, direct plaster or render can be applied to the mesh face, as the mesh provides a suitable mechanical key for wet finishing systems. Compatible dry-lining systems can also be installed over the secured membrane. Lining boards can equally be fixed where the project specification requires a board finish rather than a wet plaster or render system. The key requirement in all cases is that the membrane must be held firmly and evenly against the wall before finishing begins, with the Cob Plugs providing the close mechanical restraint needed on difficult substrates to achieve a stable background throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ) What are the limitations of Newtonite Cob Plugs?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA) Newtonite Cob Plugs have several important limitations to be aware of. They are designed specifically for the Newton Newtonite Damp Proofing System and are not general-purpose fixings. While the expanding-stem action improves grip in weak substrates, the plug still requires the masonry to be stable enough to accept a 10mm drilled hole and retain the expanded stem. Severely crumbling or structurally compromised walls must be repaired before installation. The pin must be fully driven home to achieve the intended expansion, so partial insertion will result in reduced anchorage and poor membrane restraint. At 16 plugs per m², the fixing density is higher than some standard systems, so material quantities must be planned carefully. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.platinumchemicals.co.uk\/products\/newton-mastic-sealant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonite 801 Mastic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e should always be used in higher risk damp conditions to protect fixing penetrations adequately.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"John Newton \u0026 Co. Ltd","offers":[{"title":"(W) M10 x (L) 90mm \/ Bag of 50","offer_id":8010784440350,"sku":"NA17","price":21.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2617\/5036\/files\/newton-newtonite-cob-plugs-w-m10-x-l-90mm-bag-of-50-damp-proof-membrane-ancillaries-195.webp?v=1780487948","url":"https:\/\/www.platinumchemicals.co.uk\/products\/newton-newtonite-cob-plugs-expanding-membrane-fixings","provider":"Platinum Chemicals","version":"1.0","type":"link"}