This is one of the questions we get asked most as a specialist joinery contractor. In short, the process generally takes between 6-24 weeks.
Mace’s latest foresight article reported an overall increase in Specialist Joinery lead times, but Quest Joinery has worked hard to address labour shortages and increased demand to maintain our existing lead times. As a result, ours are below the reported industry average of 26 weeks.
Specialist joinery involves many different processes, professionals and materials, with project complexity and size varying enormously; so, the timeline always depends on project specifics. That said, having a general guide to what is to be expected is a great way to deepen your understanding of the process. Here’s what you can expect……..
PROJECT SECURED
Once a project is secured, we get to work straight away. A project manager is allocated, and the necessary time allocated to our production schedule.
DESIGN
The design information we receive ranges from basic hand sketches to 3D drawings and BIM models incorporating every detail. This is a big factor to consider when factoring the design stage; the more detail we have, the quicker the design process. Generally, design takes 1-4 weeks for one item and for large scale projects the process can take between 16-40 weeks.
DESIGN APPROVALS
Once our pre-construction team are satisfied that our drawings achieve the designer’s intent and provide the best solution for manufacture, they are passed to the client for approval. Working with their feedback, we perfect our designs. This process normally takes 1-2 weeks.
PROCUREMENT
Specialist joinery incorporates a vast array of materials- upholstery, glass, metalwork, veneers and solid surfacing are a regular feature in our joinery. Many materials are stocked and sourced locally, but others are unique and produced specifically for the project or may be sourced oversees. This means the procurement period varies greatly. We allow 1-16 weeks for this process.
MANUFACTURE
With products ranging from multiple doorsets, skirtings and architraves produced quickly by our CNC department, to full bespoke joinery fit-out including cabinetry, wall panelling and reception desks involving traditional hand crafting techniques- there’s no hard and fast rule on the period of manufacture. As a guide, we complete production within 1-8 weeks.
FINISHING
Finishes varies from hand finishes including waxes, lacquers and oils to matt or high-gloss spray-finishes. Each finish has a different timescale but as a general rule, we allow 1-2 weeks for the joinery to be complete and ready for our talented installation team to fit.
PLANNING
As you’ve seen, specialist joinery project length varies, but we hope we’ve given you a greater insight into the different process timescales and how programmes are impacted. Keeping our clients well informed helps them plan accordingly. To avoid delays, it’s always a good idea to be clear about your joinery project requirements.
Of course, Quest Joinery always aim to meet your individual project needs so please get in touch with your requirements and we’ll be happy to review and discuss.
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