First And Second-Fix Carpentry: Choosing The Company For You

Katy Hall - 07-Jul-2025

First Fix And Second Fix: Why The Difference?

The most efficient construction carpentry projects are divided into two distinct phases: the first fix, and the second fix. Within these are multiple mini-phases. However, the main dividing point is the plastering or dry-lining. All timber and woodwork that is carried out before plastering is ‘first fix’, while everything afterwards is ‘second fix’. The first fix involves installing the skeleton of the structure, including crucial elements such as the stairs, window frames, stud walls, and floors. The second fix is focused on areas such as skirting boards and architraves. Consequently, very different techniques and skills are required.

A Question Of Communication

One of the reasons that project managers often shudder at the thought of the shift from first fix to second fix is that it is a major area for communication breakdown, requiring full cooperation and collaboration between the various trades. This is especially the case if a different team is handling the first and second phases. Once the wall finish is in place, the structure of the property is invisible, so there can be lengthy, complex, and sometimes inaccurate discussions about the location of noggins, studs, beams, plumbing, and wiring. In some cases, mistakes or miscommunications can lead to errors that damage the structure of the installation, or require wall finishes to be removed, resulting in a catalogue of problems such as delays, spiralling costs, and – occasionally – litigation.

The Right Equipment And Materials In The Right Place

The first fix and second fix phases of a project are sometimes thought of as being two entirely different entities. However, there are many crucial overlaps. For instance, the use of plant such as cranes and forklifts for the first fix phase to move materials around site. This is particularly the case when Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) are used, as this highly efficient methodology requires movement of large pieces of structural timber, including roof elements pre-fabricated off-site or built on the ground before being lifted into place. However, equipment such as forklifts are also used for moving large piles of materials, such as skirting-board wood – quickly around a site. Communication between these teams is essential for enabling both parts of the project to move safely and with maximum efficiency. On sites with multiple plots, first and second fix operations are often going on at the same time, increasing the need for communication and collaboration.

Eliminating Expensive Delays

Most project delays occur during the handover between the first fix and the second fix. As such, this should be a major area of focus for all project managers. At SC4 Carpentry, we overcome the troublesome handover period by managing the carpentry phases of the project from start-to-finish, as well as offering carpentry contract lifts. All of our on-site operatives, including our subcontractors, are focused on providing an excellent carpentry service while, ensuring communication efficiency via a collaborative working relationship with other site staff and trades. By including everyone on the journey, mistakes are avoided, tasks can be streamlined, delays can be minimised, and everyone has a 360 degree vision of the project from start to completion. As such, the risk of expensive oversights and misunderstandings is greatly reduced. This improves project confidence and trustworthiness and, ultimately, success.

Find Out More

SC4 Carpenters are dedicated to providing a comprehensive solution to sustainable, cost-effective construction. To learn more about how to minimise risks in your project, please contact SC4 today!