Abstract: Fastening apparatus and method for forming a rivet-type fastener are disclosed for joining two pieces together that is particularly suitable for use in constructing a building. The fastening apparatus utilizes an actuating rod preferably driven by a hydraulic cylinder with the rod being inserted through a fastening section and holes in pieces to be fastened. A set of dies has one fixed and one pulled by the rod through the holes to form at least one rolled flange or two rolled flanges to form a hollow fastener that secures the pieces together. The rod is automatically returned to an extended position to be ready for the next operation. The fastener has a relatively large inside diameter in relation to the thicknesses of the pieces being fastened to avoid shear of the piece and prevent having the flange deform under load.