Fixtures and Fittings: Differences and Characteristics
Often confused with each other, in this article, we will describe the world of fixtures and fittings, what they are, and what distinguishes one from the other.
To better understand the characteristics of these elements, it is important to emphasize right away the substantial difference between fixtures and fittings:
Fixtures constitute the structure that is fixed to the masonry frame of the window or door;
Fittings are the movable part, namely the doors or panels, that determine the opening and closing of the door, window, etc.
These elements are fundamental for acoustic, thermal-acoustic insulation, and the security of a building and fall, both, within the scope of light carpentry.
In the following paragraphs, we will better describe the characteristics, material differences, and the fastening elements used.
What Are Fittings?
The term "fitting" refers to the movable structure that is mounted on the hinges of the fixtures. These are therefore the windows, doors, French windows that can create an opening either inside or outside.
Fittings can be made of different materials, such as:
Wooden fittings;
Aluminum fittings;
PVC fittings; Etc.
This architectural element, widely used in construction and architecture, performs several important functions:
Isolates the house or building from the outside;
Ensures security and protection;
Connects two or more spaces;
Allows for air exchange;
Regulates the amount of light and heat inside the apartment, office, and building in general.
The installation of the fitting complements that of the fixtures, which, as structural elements, are installed before the fitting itself. But, in detail, what are fixtures?
What Are Fixtures?
Fixtures are structures like frames, uprights, and crosspieces that are welded to the masonry of the building. Onto them, the doors will then be mounted through hinges.
Fixtures can also be made of different materials:
Wood;
Aluminum;
PVC;
Plastic;
Steel.
Their main function is to support the doors and windows, whether internal or external, that can be easily opened and closed. Moreover, since they are complementary, a good fitting will also ensure:
Thermal insulation;
Acoustic insulation.
What Is the Difference Between Fixtures and Fittings?
Fixtures and fittings, then, are two elements of the same structure, indispensable in the construction of buildings for both their aesthetic and technical and functional aspects.
Specifically:
The fixture is the rigid structure, which is fixed to the wall and acts as an anchor for the fitting. This element can be fixed using various techniques and, in general, metal plugs and screws are used;
The fitting is the movable part, such as hinged or sliding panels of a window.
Thus, the main difference between fixtures and fittings lies in their nature and final application.
Regarding the installation of fixtures and fittings, it is important to emphasize how the installation plays a fundamental role so that the final result is satisfactory. Industry experts estimate that installation alone can account for 75% of the efficiency of the installation.
In addition to choosing professionals in the field, materials, methods, and fastening tools also make the structure functional. In the next paragraph, we will define which screws and bolts are used for fixtures and fittings.
Screws, Bolts, and Materials for Fixtures and Fittings
To ensure the stability and durability of fixtures and fittings, it's important to know and choose the different materials in which these are produced, in addition to the screws and bolts needed for fastening.
As for the materials of fittings and fixtures, the most common are:
PVC, a material that ensures:
1.Excellent resistance to weather agents;
2.Prevents sound dispersion;
3.Is recyclable and lightweight;
4.Requires little maintenance;
5.Lasts over time.
Aluminum, a material that guarantees:
1.Resistance and stability;
2.Resistance to weather agents;
3.Is economical.
The substantial difference between these two materials is that, unlike aluminum, PVC is not a conductor and therefore ensures excellent thermal insulation performance. In contrast, if aluminum fixtures and fittings are not installed correctly, the risk is to register both thermal and acoustic dispersion.
There are also mixed materials such as, for example:
Wood and aluminum;
PVC and aluminum;
PVC and wood.
Given the significant importance of the mounting and fastening of fixtures and fittings, the fastening elements must also be carefully chosen. Among the most used are, for example:
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