The course aims to teach trainees how to safely remove existing windows/doors, prepare the aperture, and correctly install new units with a view to them becoming window and door installers as a career option.
Day 1 – Theory and Practical
- Types of windows and doors
- Components & terminology
- Materials (uPVC, aluminium, timber, composite)
- Glass types (annealed, toughened, laminated, Low‑E)
- Key Building Regulations (Docs K & L)
- Removing existing windows and doors
Day 2 – Installation Fundamentals
- Removing existing windows and doors
- Installing new windows and doors
- Fixings & fixing positions
- Frame positioning
- Thermal insulation around frames
- Glazing & glass packing
- Cleaning, sealing, trimming, handover
- Q&A
- Written end‑point assessment
Technical Knowledge Covered
1) Window & Door Types
- Casement Windows
- Residential and French Doors
2) Components & Hardware
- Industry terminology – Sashes, Mullions, Transoms, Cills
- Espagnolette & Shoot bolt locking systems
- Friction Hinges, Restrictors, Ventilation options
- Door hardware: Handles, Cylinders, Hinges, Letterplates
3) Glass Types
- Annealed/float glass – breaks into sharp shards
- Toughened glass – 4–5× stronger, breaks into small pieces
- Laminated glass – stays intact due to interlayer
- Low‑E glass – improves energy efficiency
- Obscure glass patterns & privacy levels
Building Regulations
Two must always be complied with:
- Approved Document K – protection from falling, collision & impact
- Approved Document L – conservation of fuel & power
Also covered:
- Fire safety (Doc B)
- Ventilation (Doc F)
- Access (Doc M)
- Security (Doc Q)
Practical Installation Skills
1) First Things First
- Customer introduction
- RAMS (Risk Assessment & Method Statement)
- Setting up safe work areas
- Checking product sizes vs aperture
- Identifying damage
- Ensuring adequate support (lintels)
- Protecting property inside & out
2) Removing Existing Windows
- PPE requirements
- Removing trims, sashes, glass, fixings
- Cutting frames out safely
- Avoiding damage to reveals
- Replacing damaged DPC
3) Preparing the Aperture
- Remove old fixings & sealants
- Clean debris
- Fill voids
- Deal with open cavities
- Install/replace DPC correctly
4) Preparing the New Frame
- Fitting sills (85–225mm)
- Sealing sill/frame joint
- Installing handles & hardware
- Fire escape window rules (Doc B)
- Trickle vent requirements (Doc F, updated 2022)
5) Positioning the Frame
- Safe lifting
- Using air bags & packers
- Ensuring plumb, level, square
- Checking drainage routes
6) Fixing the Frame
- Fixing penetration depths
- Through‑frame fixings vs brackets
- Correct fixing spacing (150–250mm from corners, 600mm max centres)
7) Thermal Insulation
- Use of polyurethane foam
- Importance of insulating the perimeter gap
- Alternatives like expanding tape
8) Glazing
- Safe handling
- 5mm clearance rule
- Correct packer placement
- Toe & heel for side‑hung windows and doors
9) Finishing
- Cleaning
- External & internal sealing
- Use of backing rod
- Trims (quadrant, D‑mould, architrave)
- Final inspection checklist
- Customer handover & demonstration
End‑of‑Course Competencies
By the end, trainees should be able to:
- Identify window/door types & components
- Understand glass types & safety requirements
- Follow Building Regulations
- Remove existing frames safely
- Prepare apertures correctly
- Prepare, position, fix, insulate & glaze new frames
- Seal, trim, inspect & hand over installations
- Install windows, residential doors & French doors
