Best SWA Cable Cleats for Outdoor Wiring: 2025 Expert Review
Oli
Owner, OR Electrics & 18th Edition Electrician
If you are running Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable to a shed, garage, or garden lights, securing it properly is arguably the most important step after the termination itself. SWA is heavy. If it's not cleated correctly, that weight pulls directly on the glands at the consumer unit or socket, compromising the water seal and risking a live fault.
I often see DIY jobs where cables are left sagging or secured with standard pipe clips that snap after one winter. In Leeds, where damp brickwork and tough weather are the norm, using the correct UV-stable cleats is essential to stop the cable from moving or sagging over time.
In this review, I've selected three straightforward options for securing armoured cable: a budget pack for small jobs, a bulk trade pack from a trusted brand, and a flexible option for specific cable diameters.
Live in Leeds?
Need power running to your garden or garage?
Get a free quote from OR Electrics.
Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Cleat Spacing Guidelines"
"Regulations suggest specific spacing (e.g., 500mm) reduces sagging."
In practice, especially on uneven outdoor brickwork, you often need to space them closer (300-400mm) to keep the cable looking neat and tight. Never stretch the spacing to save a few pennies.
The Spec: "UV Resistance"
"Black plastic cleats are UV stable and won't degrading in sunlight."
Whilst black polypropylene is generally UV resistant, cheaper plastics can still become brittle after 5-10 years of exposure. Quality matters if you don't want to be replacing them a decade later.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
C5 Armoured Cable Cleats - Steel Wired Outdoor C5 SWA - Black Cable Cleat Clips - 10 Cable Cleats
Generic
For a simple garden lighting run or a single spur to a shed, you typically don't need a bag of 100 clips. This pack of 10 generic C5 cleats is ideal for small DIY tasks where low cost and convenience are key.
The Good
- Perfect quantity for small repair jobs or short runs
- HDPE material offers good impact resistance
- UV resistant black finish suitable for outdoors
The Bad
- Generic unbranded manufacturing
- Price per unit is higher than bulk buying
Installer Tip:
These are C5 size. Ensure you check your cable diameter. A common mistake is buying C5 for a larger 4mm or 6mm armoured cable—it won't fit. These are best suited for smaller 1.5mm or 2.5mm 3-core SWA.
Priced at £4.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonSWA Armoured Cable Cleats CC8 (0.8" - 20.8mm) - Pack of 100
Niglon
Niglon is a brand I see daily at the electrical wholesalers here in Leeds. These CC8 cleats are the professional's choice for larger SWA cables. Buying in a pack of 100 offers incredible value per clip and ensures you have spares for future work.
The Good
- Trusted electrical trade brand (Niglon)
- Exceptional value per unit (approx 14p each)
- CC8 size fits larger sub-main cables often used for garages
The Bad
- Pack of 100 is overkill for a single small job
- Need to verify your cable OD matches CC8 sizing
Installer Tip:
Installing in mid-winter? Keep these in your pockets or the van cab before use. Cold plastic can snap if hit hard with a hammer or flexed too aggressively. Warming them up slightly makes them much more pliable during installation.
Priced at £13.59 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonJLB Plastics UK SWA Armoured Cable Cleats CC5 No5 (Pack of 25) CC-5 (10.1mm to 12.7mm)
JLB Plastics UK
Finding the exact fit is crucial to prevent the cable from sliding through the clip. JLB Plastics offers these in specific sizes (CC5, CC6, CC7) and various pack quantities. The CC5 fits 10.1mm to 12.7mm, which is perfect for common domestic lighting cables.
The Good
- Clear sizing guidance (10.1mm - 12.7mm)
- Pack of 25 is a 'sweet spot' for medium garden projects
- Very affordable pricing
The Bad
- Screws rarely included (standard for this product)
- Requires precise cable measurement before ordering
Installer Tip:
Don't just use cheap drywall screws to fix these to an exterior wall. In Leeds' damp climate, the screw head will rust off in two years, leaving the cleat useless. Use corrosion-resistant stainless steel screws or proper exterior coated masonry screws for a long-lasting fix.
Priced at £3.79 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
How do I know which size cable cleat to buy?
How far apart should SWA cleats be spaced?
Can I use standard pipe clips instead of SWA cleats?
Do I need professional help to install outdoor power?
Need Professional Outdoor & Security Lighting?
Our team at OR Electrics specialises in Outdoor & Security Lighting across Leeds.
Get a free quote for professional installation.
View Our Outdoor & Security Lighting Service