I need to attach a wooden batten to a old block wall so I can fit skirting boards but when I drill in to the block it's some sort of grey ash so it won't be strong enough for a wall plug so what can I use to attach the batten to the wall that won't pull off when I fit skirting boards.
Have you tried gluing it on? The brickwork may need sealing with something like PVA. But if the glue works on the batten, it may well work on the skirting. Otherwise the old fashioned way: clean out a perp (a vertical mortar course) and wedge in a bit of timber.
I haven't tried glue as I didn't know which one would be best to use. I only have 18mm batten and the gap behind the skirting is 21mm so i will use plastic packers then screw the skirting in to the batten.
Will i need to seal the blocks before applying this and can I apply a thick bead on the back of the skirting so it's thicker than the shims so it will stick to the batten.
Maybe some of the more professional people here can shed some light on these https://www.mad4tools.com/fixings-f...gefix-aircrete-square-anchor-fixing-bag-of-10 I've never used, but a friend swears by them
Try using frame fixings as they don't need a plug, they drive straight in provided you drill a 6mm hole first. Or use expanding foam to fix the batten on and just strut something against it until it cures.