First Fix and Second Fix Plumbing in Cheshire

What first fix plumbing involves

First fix is all the pipework that gets installed before walls, floors, and ceilings are closed up. This includes:

• Running supply pipework to every point that will eventually need water, hot or cold
• Installing waste pipework with correct falls for drainage
• Positioning pipework for future fixtures accurately, so second fix connections line up exactly where they need to be
• Installing heating pipework if applicable, whether for radiators or underfloor systems

Getting first fix right

Getting first fix right matters enormously, because once walls and floors are closed up, any mistake in pipe positioning becomes expensive and disruptive to correct, often requiring walls or floors to be opened up again.

What second fix plumbing involves

Second fix happens once the building is plastered, decorated, and ready for fixtures. This includes:

• Connecting and fitting all visible fixtures, taps, toilets, basins, baths, and showers
• Fitting radiators or underfloor heating manifolds and controls
• Final connections to the boiler and hot water system
• Testing the complete system under normal operating conditions

Why timing matters between the two stages

There's usually a gap of weeks or months between first and second fix, while other trades complete their work. We make sure first fix pipework is properly capped and protected during this period, so it's not damaged by other trades working in the same spaces, and we'll check everything's still in good condition before starting second fix.