Second Fix Carpentry: The Finishing Touch

Second fix carpentry is where a building starts to look finished. It's visible work that demands precision and care. Here's what you need to know.

What Is Second Fix?

Second fix happens after plastering and includes:

• Skirting boards and architraves
• Door hanging and furniture
• Stair components
• Window boards and reveals
• Built-in storage and shelving

The Importance of Preparation

Good second fix starts with checking first fix:

• Are door linings plumb and square?
• Are walls flat enough for tight-fitting trim?
• Do floor levels allow for consistent skirting?

Problems found now are easier to fix than after trim is fitted.

Scribing to Walls

Walls are never perfectly flat. Scribing creates tight joints:

1. Hold trim tight to the wall
2. Run a pencil along the wall contour
3. Cut to the marked line
4. Fine-tune with a block plane

Mitres and Copes

Internal corners in skirting and coving can be mitred or coped:

• Mitres: Faster but gaps open with movement
• Copes: More work but stay tight over time

Professional carpenters usually cope internal corners.

Fixing Methods

How you fix trim affects appearance and longevity:

• Brad nails: Quick, small holes, good for most trim
• Screws: When extra holding power is needed
• Adhesive: Can supplement mechanical fixings

Door Hanging

Properly hung doors:

• 3mm gaps at top and sides
• 10mm clearance at bottom (more for carpet)
• Hinges inset flush with frame and door
• Latches align with keeps first time

Tools for Second Fix

Essential second fix tools include:

• Mitre saw (sliding compound for wide boards)
• Brad nailer
• Block plane
• Coping saw
• Combination square
• Tape measure and sharp pencil

The Finish Matters

Second fix work is visible. Take time to fill nail holes, sand edges smooth, and ensure tight joints. This is what customers see and judge your work by.