In buildings and structures, window fitters construct a variety of openings, including windows and doors, conservatories, and glass curtain walls. They might work on newly constructed residences, improve older furnishings, or assist in the restoration of historic structures.
The steps involved in becoming a window fitter
There are several different paths one might take to become a window fitter. You might get training by completing a course at a college, serving an apprenticeship, or gaining experience on the job.
You need to investigate each of these ways to become a window fitter in order to choose which of these paths is most suitable for you. Even while some of these opportunities have specific prerequisites for qualifications, many businesses are looking for individuals who are motivated, ready to learn, and able to follow directions.
If you want to work on a construction site, you may be required to have a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
College or other educational provider
If you want to become a window fitter, you can consider taking a college degree in carpentry or joinery to help you acquire the necessary skills. There is a possibility that a Level 2 Diploma in Bench Joinery, as well as a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery, are both offered by the training provider or institution in your area.
After obtaining the certification, you will be able to seek for a position as a window fitter's mate or assistant and acquire more expertise while working in that capacity.
You are going to need to:
a minimum of two GCSEs with marks ranging from 9 to 3 (A* to D) (level 2 course)
4 - 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) (level 3 course).
Apprenticeship
In order to work as a window fitter, you would need to first finish an intermediate apprenticeship in glazing or fenestration installation. Companies that specialize in building or fenestration may provide these services to their customers.
You will typically require at least two GCSEs or its equivalent, with marks ranging from 9 to 3 (A* to D).
Apprenticeships are available to anybody over the age of 16 who meets the requirements. You will be considered a full-time employee of the firm you apprentice for, and you will be required to put in a minimum of thirty hours of labor each week. Your time will be divided between getting experience on the job and attending school or working with a training provider.
Work
There are no formal requirements to become a window fitter; therefore, if you have GCSEs in English and mathematics or prior experience in carpentry and joinery, you could apply directly to an employer for a job as a fitter's mate or assistant. This is because there are no formal requirements to become a window fitter.
It's possible that your company may assist you acquire new skills on the job so that you can become a window fitter.
Practice in the workplace
Gaining relevant work experience is very necessary in order to get a position within the sector. You could be able to learn this in school, or you might be able to learn it by working weekends and holidays for a firm or a relative who installs windows. On a resume, previous job experience is always going to be something that prospective employers find very appealing.
Skills
Additional skills that might be beneficial to someone thinking about working as a window fitter include the following:
Knowledge of architecture and construction techniques
Equipped with strong mathematical and deductive reasoning abilities
Excellent attention to detail
Capability to function effectively in adverse conditions
Skilled in the use of one's hands in labor.
What exactly is it that a window fitter does?
As a window fitter, one of your primary responsibilities will be to install windows and doors in residential and commercial properties while ensuring that the fittings are suitable for their intended use and are watertight.
The following responsibilities are included in the job description for the position of window fitter:
Utilizing both hand and power equipment, the old windows, doors, and conservatories were removed.
Taking measurements of a room in preparation for installing new windows or doors
putting in place windows and doors that have either single or double glazing
Constructing greenhouses and greenhouse conservatories
The process of caulking fittings to make them weatherproof and enhance the energy efficiency of buildings
Performing work using fittings made of uPVC, metal, or wood
After a work is over, cleaning up any remaining items.
How much money would you make if you worked as a window fitter?
The range of the compensation you may anticipate as a window fitter shifts as your level of experience grows.
Earnings in the area of £15,000 are possible for newly qualified window fitters.
Window fitters with years of experience may make up to £25,000 per year*.
Window fitters who work on their own are responsible for determining their own wage rates.
Both your hours and your pay are determined by your location, your company, and any overtime that you put in.