Trade guide
How to Become a Curtain Wall Installer in the UK
Overview
Curtain wall installers fit the glass and aluminium facade systems that define modern commercial buildings. These non-structural exterior walls hang from the building's structural frame like a "curtain" and provide weather protection, thermal insulation, and aesthetics. It's a specialist branch of glazing that combines engineering precision with construction skills. Major UK developments, from Canary Wharf towers to Manchester's skyline, all rely on skilled curtain wall installers.
Next steps
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Step-by-Step Career Path
Build a Foundation
GCSEs in Maths, English, and Design Technology are useful. Experience in glazing, window fitting, or general construction provides a strong starting point.
Enter the Industry
Join a curtain walling or commercial glazing contractor as a trainee. Large companies like Permasteelisa, Schüco installers, and Kawneer-approved contractors offer structured training programmes.
Complete NVQ Level 2 in Glazing
The NVQ Level 2 in Fenestration Installation covers glass handling, frame assembly, sealing, and safety. This is assessed on-site and is the minimum industry qualification.
Specialise in Curtain Walling
Progress to curtain wall-specific training covering unitised systems, stick systems, structural glazing, and pressure plate systems. Manufacturer training from companies like Schüco or Reynaers is valuable.
Get Safety Certifications
Working at Height, PASMA, IPAF, manual handling, and CSCS card are all essential. Curtain wall work is almost always at height on large commercial buildings.
Progress Your Career
Move into site supervision, project management, or technical design roles. Experienced curtain wall specialists are highly sought after and can earn £50,000+.
Qualifications Needed
- ✓NVQ Level 2/3 in Fenestration Installation
- ✓GQA Glazing Qualifications
- ✓CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card
- ✓PASMA Tower Scaffold Certificate
- ✓IPAF Powered Access Licence
- ✓Working at Height Training
- ✓Manufacturer System Training (Schüco, Kawneer, etc.)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Higher pay than standard glazing work
- Work on prestigious commercial buildings
- Specialist skills in high demand
- Interesting technical challenges
- Good career progression opportunities
- International work opportunities
Cons
- Working at significant heights constantly
- Heavy glass panels require careful handling
- Weather-dependent outdoor work
- Travel to major construction sites
- Physically demanding — lifting and positioning
- High-pressure project deadlines
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do curtain wall installers earn?▼
Trainee installers earn £22,000-£28,000. Qualified installers earn £32,000-£45,000. Lead installers and supervisors earn £42,000-£55,000. Specialist structural glazing skills command the highest rates.
What is the difference between curtain walling and standard glazing?▼
Standard glazing fills openings in walls. Curtain walling is the entire external wall system — a non-load-bearing facade of glass and aluminium that hangs from the building structure. It's more complex and requires specialist skills.
Do I need to be comfortable with heights?▼
Absolutely. Curtain wall work takes place on the exterior of multi-storey buildings, often using cradles, mast climbers, or scaffolding. If you're uncomfortable with heights, this isn't the right trade.
What systems do curtain wall installers work with?▼
The two main types are stick systems (assembled piece by piece on site) and unitised systems (pre-assembled panels craned into position). Each requires different skills, and most installers learn both.
Is curtain walling a growing industry?▼
Yes. Commercial construction, office refurbishments, and the trend for glass-heavy architectural designs keep demand strong. Energy efficiency requirements also mean older curtain wall systems need upgrading or replacing.
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