The second fix is a critical phase in new-build housing installations as it delivers the gleaming finish that homeowners will ultimately see and interact with. As long as the first fix has been completed successfully, there is no reason why the second fix should not be straightforward. However, it can descends into a labyrinth of unexpected delays and costs. Here are three key points to keep in mind and save you time when selecting a second fix construction company.

Carpentry presents a range of occupational health hazards that workers should be aware of. These include the inhalation of wood dust, injuries from manual handling, falls from elevated positions, and potential contact with hazardous chemicals and asbestos. Implementing robust safety protocols, notably the consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE), is key to reducing these risks.

This article takes a closer look at the primary risks and recommended safety measures, providing a list of key topics for your toolbox talks.

Transitioning from the first fix (structural timber work) to the second fix carpentry stage (fixtures and fittings) is a critical phase in any building project. Seamlessly integrating both tasks is the key to creating a building that is structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing.

All carpentry involves cutting, shaping and assembling wooden materials to create structures, fittings and furnishings. All carpentry involves cutting, shaping and assembling wooden materials to create structures, fittings and furnishings. However, the on-site tasks of a commercial carpentry contractor can mostly be categorised into either first fix or second fix carpentry.

Commercial second fix carpentry generally refers to the installation of doors, windows, and other fixtures and fittings in a commercial setting.  It’s what happens once the first fix trades complete the installation of the structural components of the build, and at SC4 Carpenters, we are happy to offer both first and second fix aspects of carpentry for all types of residential and commercial property development.

Carpentry involves cutting, shaping, installing, finishing and repairing the wood products used in construction, from interior trim work such as door frames, staircases and skirtings to external window frames and roofing – and even including load-bearing structural components. Decorating services include painting walls, ceilings, doors, and windows as well as installing wallpaper and exterior finishes.

The success of a construction project often depends on the quality of the work done by first and second fix carpentry contractors. In this article, we want to discuss in detail the second fix carpentry process for residential new builds and refurbishments. We hope this will help you be more confident when discussing your needs with prospective contractors and putting together an outstanding team.

Good carpenters are always in demand. According to a 2019 survey, carpentry is the top trade job in the UK, and demand for professionals in this industry increased by more than 65% between 2019 and 2020 alone. Having said that, there are different types of carpenters. Carpentry contractors can specialise in different areas, from framing and structural work (first fix) to cabinet and door fitting (second fix).

From roofs/first fix to second fix and finals, trust, skill and reliability matter in construction. But sometimes it can be hard to determine the criteria to use in order to select the best commercial carpentry contractor. Insurance, accreditations, skills, qualifications and experience - they're all important. Here are eight tips for hiring the best carpentry and joinery contractors for building developments.

Building a housing development or other construction project from scratch has a number of different stages as far as carpentry and joinery work is concerned.As a contractor or lead developer, it’s important to get them right to avoid messing up or correcting costly mistakes down the line. In the earlier stages of construction, there's a lot of behind the scenes work for trades specialists: electricians, plumbers, and of course joiners and carpenters.