What Is Involved In Second Fix Carpentry For New Builds & Refurbishments?

What Is Involved In Second Fix Carpentry For New Builds & Refurbishments?

The success of a construction project often depends on the quality of the work done by first and second fix carpentry contractors.

Elsewhere in our blog, we have discussed the importance of choosing a reliable first fix contractor and how to save costs during this stage of the process.

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.

What’s Involved in Second Fix Carpentry?

Second fix carpentry builds on the structural woodwork installed during the first fix stage and creates all the finishing touches needed to declare a project complete. This involves fitting all the visible internal carpentry and joinery items, such as:

• Hanging internal doors and installing pre-formed door sets.
• Installing latches and door/window hardware – although this may be completed at the finals stage.
• Boxing in pipes in kitchens and bathrooms, so they’re not exposed in plain sight. This task is also known as “low level boxing”.
• Completing staircase work, such as the installation of banisters, railings, newels, and other stair components.
• Cutting and fitting protective and decorative woodwork such as skirting, mouldings and door and window architraves.
• Fitting cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms, plus built-in wardrobes or cupboards.
• Installing and joining worktops and shelving in kitchens and bathrooms.

What Tools And Skills Are Required?

Ideally, you’ll want your second fix contractor to have a wide selection of power tools specifically designed for second fix work, including but not limited to drills, routers, saws, nail guns, planers, levels, and measures, as well as suitable adhesives, nails, screws and other fixings.

The Skills Needed To Perform A Flawless Second Fix Job Include:

• An excellent eye for detail.

• Ability to understand complex drawings and specifications.
• Accuracy and high-quality finish – the carpentry work will be on view.
• The ability to meet deadlines.
• The ability to work unsupervised, but also as part of a team that involves other tradespeople.
• Knowledge of how to safely operate hand and power tools and the correct PPE to use.
• The experience and technical knowledge to ensure a perfect fit and neat finish.

How Long Should The Second Fix Process Take?

There are different variables involved in second fix, ranging from the size of the building and site to the level of detail required, the experience of the contractor, the number of contractors on-site, how materials are transferred to each plot, and whether tools are left on-site or have to be brought in every day.

In every case, a professional experienced second fix carpentry contractor should be able to give you an accurate time and cost estimate once they know the project details.

Professional Joinery And Carpentry From SC4

At SC4, we’re an established commercial joinery and carpentry business with more than 20 years of experience delivering top-quality second fix carpentry work. We exclusively hire qualified tradespeople who are comfortable and experienced at taking a collaborative approach to contract work. This ensures we can deliver high-quality work safely, on time, and to your satisfaction, helping you keep costs down and prevent delays while sustaining quality.

We invite you to visit our site and explore past projects to see the level of professionalism you can expect from us.