What should a house look like after installing doors and windows in a new build or renovation? Many homeowners ask this question. Will there be extra finishing work? What kind of support does Fenbro provide to ensure a seamless result. With Fenbro, you can be sure that once your new windows and doors are fitted, they’ll be fully functional, securely sealed, and ready for the final touches.
In this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect, the available service options, and how to achieve a flawless finish for your home.
How are windows and doors installed in a new build?
Fitting in new build
When installing windows and doors in a newly built property, the process follows these key steps:
Preparation of openings
Window and door openings are pre-prepared based on exact measurements. These must be properly levelled and free of obstructions like uneven surfaces or protruding brickwork to prevent bad window fitting.
Fitting the products
The frames are placed into the openings and secured using anchors. The exact securing method (screwing or sealing) depends mainly on the building type. Proper alignment is crucial to avoid faulty window installation.
Sealing the bottom part
Before installation, a layer of silicone is applied to the bottom concrete sill to create an extra barrier against moisture and air leakage. The window is then placed on this layer, and a under-window sill strip is added to cover the concrete sill, ensuring a tight seal and improperly installed windows.
Expanding foam application
Once positioned, the gaps around the frame are filled with expanding foam, which provides additional structural stability, thermal insulation, and soundproofing.
Installation gapsStandard spacing around windows and doors in new builds is:
- 1 cm on the right side,
- 1 cm on the left side,
- 1 cm at the top
Final outcome
After installation, windows and doors are fully functional, meaning they open and close properly. The expanding foam needs time to dry before further finishing work is carried out by the construction team.
Warm assembly
Warm assembly is an enhanced method that improves a building’s energy efficiency. This option is available under some conditions:
- Key components: warm sills and warm thresholds – if selected, installation is carried out using specially designed warm sills and thresholds, reducing thermal bridges and increasing insulation
- Use of vapour-permeable and expanding tapes – these can be applied at an additional cost to enhance insulation and improve the airtightness of the installation
- Limitations – full warm assembly is not possible if your home has concrete sills. However, a hybrid installation can be performed using vapour-permeable and expanding tapes, which enhance sealing but do not entirely prevent heat loss through concrete sills
- Expanding tape application – these tapes are applied between the window frame and the wall, adapting to the surface for optimal insulation.
Cleaning and additional elements
No need to worry about cleaning up after the after doors and windows installation – Fenbro takes care of it for you! Our team ensures that your space is left neat and tidy, so you don’t have to deal with unnecessary mess. Whether it’s dust, debris, or leftover materials, we clean up after ourselves, allowing you to enjoy your newly installed windows and doors without any extra hassle.
We also provide all necessary accessories for your windows and doors. Caps and plugs are neatly packed in a bag and handed over to you. If you’d like, our installer can fit them for you. However, if external construction work is still ongoing, we recommend keeping them aside until all work is completed.
How does window and door installation work in renovations?
Fitting with finishing
Upgrading windows and doors during a renovation requires several steps:
Removal of old windows, doors and sills
The existing elements are carefully dismantled to avoid structural damage.
Fitting new windows, doors and sills
The new elements are secured using anchors, and the sill is further insulated between the wall and the window to enhance sealing.
Sealing with expanding foam
Windows and doors are properly sealed to minimise heat loss and improve sound insulation, preventing improper window installation.
Installation gaps
Unlike new builds, the installation process in renovations differs:
- windows and doors must be recessed into the existing wall by approximately 0.5 cm
- there is no installation gap, as they must fit seamlessly into the existing structure.
Internal finishing
The standard interior finishing process includes:
- filling gaps with bonding and skimming, creating a smooth, ready-to-paint surface without requiring sanding
- drying time: 4-5 days – after which the surface is ready for painting.
External finishing
The required work varies depending on the condition of the existing building and may involve:
- applying new cement (if needed),
- filling gaps,
- sealing with silicone in the same colour as the window frame.
Cleaning
Just like in new builds, Fenbro ensures that after installation, your space is left tidy and free from construction waste.
Please keep in mind: painting is the customer’s responsibility. Fenbro does not provide painting services after installation is completed. However, we ensure that all surfaces are properly prepared and ready for painting, making the final step as smooth as possible for you.
What fitting options does Fenbro offer?
To meet the diverse needs, we offer flexible installation options designed to suit different budgets and project requirements:
Fitting with finishing
For new builds, fitting with finishing is always included, ensuring your windows and doors are installed, sealed, and fully prepared for further use. We take care of the disposal of old windows, doors, and debris, guaranteeing your space is left clean and tidy.
When it comes to renovations, full fitting with finishing is an excellent choice for those who want a complete transformation without additional hassle. This service includes the same high-quality finishing work, along with the disposal of old windows, doors, and any installation debris. Whether you are constructing a brand-new home or upgrading an existing property, this comprehensive solution ensures that everything is professionally handled.
Fitting without finishing
For those who want a budget-friendly solution and don’t mind handling the finishing touches themselves, fitting without finishing is a great choice. Our fitters take care of dismantling your old windows and doors, ensuring that the new ones are securely fitted and properly sealed with expanding foam. However, any interior or exterior finishing, such as plastering or painting, is up to the customer. In addition, disposal of old windows, doors, and debris remains the customer’s responsibility.
What are the signs of bad window and door installation?
If your windows and doors are improperly installed, you may notice several warning signs. Signs of bad window installation include difficulty in opening and closing, gaps between the frame and the wall, and noticeable drafts. Bad window fitting may also result in condensation between window panes, water leaks, or uneven alignment. If the gap between the window frame and the wall exceeds 3 cm, it indicates a measurement error – the window is too small. Similarly, improper door installation can cause misalignment, difficulty in closing, or noticeable air leaks around the edges. To sum up, improper window installation can lead to increased energy bills due to poor insulation.
Conclusion
After reading this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how your home should look after window and door installation. In new builds, windows and doors come fully installed with finishing, making them ready for further construction or immediate use. In renovations, you can choose from basic installation to a full-service package that includes finishing and disposal. No matter your project, our team ensures that your windows and doors are fitted with precision and care.
If you have any questions about the installation process or need guidance on the best option for your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts. We’re here to help!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I buy Fenbro products without installation?
Yes, but the VAT rate will differ based on local regulations. Fenbro is not liable for incorrect measurements (provided by the Customer) or any issues from faulty installation.
How long does installation take?
Typically 1–3 days, depending on the order size and additional work. The exact timeframe will be confirmed after placing the order.
Does Fenbro offer painting services?
No, Fenbro does not include painting in its installation services
What happens to my old windows and doors after replacement?
If you choose the standard installation option, Fenbro handles waste removal. However, if you select installation without finishing, disposal remains the customer’s responsibility
Will my Fenbro windows and doors be ready to use immediately after installation?
Yes, they will be fully operational. However, finishing work such as painting and additional sealing may still be required.
