Window Fitter
What is the work like?
As a window fitter, you would install new or replacement windows and doors, conservatories and glazed curtain walls in commercial premises or private households. You would work with traditional wooden- and metal-framed products, and more modern UPVC units.
You would normally be assisted by a fitter's ‘mate’, and your duties would include:
- removing old windows and doors with hand and power tools
- measuring up the space(s) for the new windows or doors
- fixing the units in place, making sure they are level and secure
- sealing the fittings to make them weathertight
- cleaning away leftover materials and making good any damage to indoor timber or plasterwork.
As well as fitting windows on site, you may be able to work in the manufacture of glazing units. For more details, see the job profile for Glazier .
With more experience, you could specialise in the repair and replacement of windows and glazing on old buildings or monuments.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
Often, the best way to get into this work is to apply directly to a glazing company. Previous experience in carpentry and joinery may be helpful in getting an entry-level job as a fitter's 'mate'.
Although qualifications are not essential, some employers may ask for GCSEs (A-C) in subjects such as maths, English, and design and technology, or equivalent qualifications such as the BTEC Introductory Certificate/Diploma in Construction.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme with a glazing company. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
This job involves travelling from site to site, so you may need a driving licence.
What further training and development can I do?
You would normally be given a short training course by your employer when you start work. It would cover the removal and fitting of window frames, health and safety, customer service and relevant paper work. Afterwards, you would work alongside an experienced fitter.
You may be able to take the following work-based qualifications:
- NVQ Level 2 in Fenestration Installation
- NVQ Level 3 in Fenestration Installation and Surveying
- NVQ Levels 2 and 3 in Glazing
You can find out more about these qualifications and details of regional assessment centres by visiting the Glass Qualifications Authority website.
You could also consider the short professional development courses offered by Glass Training Ltd., covering subjects such as health and safety, communications and team development.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS)
Many building contractors now insist that you have a CSCS card to work on their sites. The card is proof of your skills and competence. To get your card you must:
- pass a health and safety assessment
- have an NVQ or equivalent qualification.
If you are working without qualifications, you may be able to use On-Site Assessment and Training (OSAT) or Experienced Worker Practical Assessment (EWPA) to get your NVQ and card. Contact CSCS or SkillsDirect for further details.
Where can I go for more information?
Tel: 0844 248 5262The Quadrant
99 Parkway Avenue
Parkway Business Park
Sheffield
S9 4WG
Tel: 0114 227 0070
Solly Street
Sheffield
S1 4BA
Tel: 0114 272 0033
King's Lynn
Norfolk
PE31 6RH
Tel: 01485 577577
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
Related profiles...
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- A window fitter's 'mate' can earn between £12,000 and £15,000 a year.
- With qualifications, fitters can expect to earn up to £20,000 a year.
- Experienced window fitters with additional responsibilities may earn up to £30,000 a year.
Overtime and various allowances can significantly increase income. Self-employed fitters negotiate their own rates.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Your normal working week would be 40 hours, Monday to Friday, although overtime may be necessary to meet deadlines.
You would work on the inside and outside of buildings, using ladders or scaffolding to reach the upper storeys. The work can be physically demanding, with heavy lifting involved.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- an awareness of safe working practices, especially when handling glass
- a pleasant and polite manner to deal with customers
- good practical skills
- the ability to make accurate measurements and work out adjustments to fit frames
- the ability to work alone and as part of a small team
- a good level of fitness
- a good head for heights
- the ability to plan and organise workloads to meet job deadlines.
What opportunities are there?
You can find work as a window fitter throughout the country, with large national firms or smaller companies employing a limited number of teams. You would find vacancies in the local press, through the job centre and by contacting firms directly.
With experience, you could become a window surveyor and/or estimator, visiting customers’ premises, measuring up jobs and offering quotations for replacement windows. It may also be possible to become self-employed or take up a window fitting franchise.
You could also move into related areas, such as glazing sales and marketing.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
Glass and Glazing Products magazine
Jobcentre Plus
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