Window Fitter

What does a window fitter do?

As a window fitter, you’ll be responsible for installing windows and doors in homes and businesses, ensuring fittings are fit for purpose and weathertight. 

The job role of  a window fitter involves the following duties:  

• Using hand and power tools to remove old windows, doors and conservatories 
• Measuring up a space for new windows or doors 
• Fixing single or double-glazed windows and doors in place 
• Building conservatories and glasshouses 
• Sealing fittings to make them weathertight and improve buildings’ energy efficiency 
• Working with UPVC, metal or  wooden fittings 
• Clearing away leftover materials after a job. 

How to become a window fitter

There are several routes of becoming a window fitter. You could complete a college course, an apprenticeship, or gain on-the-job training. 

You should explore these routes of becoming a window fitter to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions. 

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site. 

College/training provider 

You could complete a college course in carpentry or joinery to help you gain useful skills to become a window fitter.

• Equivalent entry requirements explained 
• Find a course near you 
• Funding advice 

Apprenticeship 

You could complete an intermediate apprenticeship in glazing or fenestration installation to become a window fitter. These may be offered by construction or specialist fenestration companies. 

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you’ll be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider. 

• Guide to apprenticeships

Work 

There are no formal requirements needed to become a window fitter, so if you have GCSEs in English and maths or previous experience of carpentry and joinery, you could apply directly to an employer for a job as  a fitter’s ‘mate’ or assistant.  

Your employer may support you to gain skills on the job, to help you become a window fitter. 

Work experience 

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a window fitter. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV. 

• Find out more about work experience

Skills  

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a window fitter include:  

• Understanding of building and construction 
• Good maths and logical thinking skills 
• Excellent attention to detail 
• Ability to work well under pressure 
• Good at working with your hands. 

How much could you earn as a window fitter?

The expected salary for a window fitter varies as you become more experienced.

• Newly trained window fitters can start at £20000
• Trained with experience window fitters can earn up to £43000*

Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed an industry recognised training route. 

* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources