Clearview National October 2019 - Issue 215 | Page 79

INSTALLERSUPPORT
FENSA Tips for
Installing Windows
and Doors
FENSA are the largest CP scheme in the glazing
industry and their community of Approved Installers
fit over 2 million windows per year. When it comes to
windows and doors, they really can make or break the
look and feel of a home so getting the design, material
and finish right can turn a good looking job into a great
one. Here are just some of FENSA’s tips to ensure
homeowners are left delighted with the end product.
GO EASY ON REMOVAL
If you’re taking existing frames out then
take time with the first one as many horrors
can lurk under the plaster. If it’s been lug fixed
or attached to a cavity closer then you don’t
want to find out by losing a whole reveal.
Take your time and use the correct removal
technique, it could save you a whole load of
hassle down the line.
DON’T OVERTIGHTEN
THOSE FIXINGS
Direct masonry fixings are the norm these
days, they’re quick and easy and you don’t
bend any or hit the frame when hammering
them in. However, the frame should still
be packed at the fixing points to stop the
frame distorting. Installation packers will
also remove any twist that these less forgiving
fixings may impart on the jambs.
CLEAN IT PROPERLY
If they’re not spotless before you seal,
it won’t stick and you’ll end up having
to go back to reseal, which is no fun
for anyone. Use the right sealant for
the job. In most cases it’s a good neutral
cure silicone on the outside, a small gap
sealer between frames and trims, then
decorators caulk to the plaster. Oh and
it’s always advisable to mask up before
sealing, especially if you’re using a coloured
sealant.
MEASURE AGAIN
You should already have measured at three
points across both width and height, using
the smallest. If it’s a refurbishment job then
measure the openings again. Then measure the
new frames. Don’t rely on your survey. Many
slip ups have been made on the factory floor
and the survey won’t tell you that
TOE AND HEEL
Glazing seems easy. To be fair it is when
you do it every day. However if you don’t pack
around a glass unit correctly then chances
are that sashes will drop and units will blow.
Getting the right size packers will help. Make
sure they fit under the glass unit and carry
both panes and don’t let them slip when
knocking those beads in.
‘turn a good looking
job into a great one’
THE BONUS TIP – PROTECT
YOUR WORK
If the job is part of a new build project then
make sure you protect the frames and glass as
both are very easily scratched and damaged.
Plastic film will help protect against damage
from rendering and plastering but also make sure
that there is access elsewhere for other materials.
If there isn’t then consider an alternative to
fitting that particular window or door until
after the other
work has been
carried out.
FENSA – All The Proof You Need
C L E A RV I E W-U K . C O M » O CT 2019 » 79