# When to order windows and doors for a building project: a timeline for builders Timely planning — from project drawings to installation without rushing. Windows and doors are among the items with the longest lead times on a building site. They are made to individual dimensions, so you cannot order them tomorrow and install them the day after. Without timely planning, closing the building envelope is delayed, along with interior work. This article explains how to fit window and door deliveries into the construction schedule. ## Why is the timeline so important? Installing windows and doors is a key construction stage: once the building is enclosed, interior work can safely begin. If windows are delayed, so are the tasks that depend on them: plastering, floors, finishes and heating. Window delivery should therefore be treated as a critical-path item, not a purchase to leave until later. ## Typical production lead times - **PVC windows:** 4–6 weeks - **Aluminium windows:** 6–8 weeks - **Facade systems and non-standard structures:** the lead time is confirmed individually for the project Lead times normally start from order confirmation, not from the first conversation. ## Planning backwards from the installation date The simplest approach is to work backwards from the date the windows need to be installed: - Stage - What it includes - **Installation** - Planned installation date on site - **Delivery** - Transport to site shortly before installation - **Production** - 4–6 weeks (PVC) or 6–8 weeks (aluminium) - **Order confirmation** - Final specification, dimensions, colour and glazing - **Quotation and approval** - Detailed quotation and specification refinement - **On-site measurement** - Accurate measurements once the openings have been formed - **Initial consultation** - Review of project plans and preliminary assessment Practical advice: start discussing windows at least **3 months before the planned installation**. This gives you time to agree the specification, arrange measurements and receive the finished windows without rushing. ## A two-stage approach: preliminary and precise During construction, actual opening dimensions can differ slightly from the drawings, so a two-step approach is useful: - **Initial assessment based on project plans.** This helps establish solutions, approximate costs and lead times at an early stage - **Precise quotation after on-site measurement.** Once the openings are formed, measurements are taken on site and the order is based on them This makes the schedule clear early in the project while ensuring the order uses real dimensions. ## Common causes of delays - **Specification changes after ordering.** Changing colour, glazing or opening type after production has started may require remanufacturing - **Inaccurate or late measurements.** Ordering to drawing dimensions that do not match the actual openings - **Incomplete specifications.** Missing information that requires clarification and waiting for answers - **Site access.** Restrictions on delivery and installation access - **Weather conditions.** Work sequences may need to be adapted in the cold season - **Construction schedule changes.** If the building is not ready for installation on the planned date, delivery must be rescheduled ## How to reduce the risk of delays Finalise the specification before ordering A clear specification covering dimensions, profiles, glazing, colour and opening type helps avoid changes after production begins. Arrange measurements in good time Schedule measurements once the openings are formed, but before the ordering deadline. Split deliveries where needed On larger projects, deliveries can be split to match construction stages. Coordinate the schedule with one contact person The fewer parties involved, the easier it is to coordinate dates. Allow a contingency Particularly in the cold season or on complex projects, leave a small time buffer. ## How we work with construction schedules We offer one point of contact for the whole project, from the initial consultation and on-site measurement to delivery, installation and aftercare. Our own team carries out installation, followed by a 30-day comfort check and an inspection after 180 days. If the schedule changes, we communicate clearly and in good time. ## Planning a project and want to coordinate window and door deliveries? Send us your project plans or get in touch for an initial assessment of solutions and lead times. Consultation and on-site measurement are free. Send plans ## Related articles Window and door project specifications Preparing for window installation Precise measurements A private house under construction with installed windows