When Should I Order Materials for My Home?

If you are thinking about a remodel for 2022 or trying to plan out an extensive building project, one of the most pressing questions as of late is when you should start ordering products to ensure your materials arrive promptly. We talked with some of our Cardinal members about when you might want to start that ordering process.

Our team pulled timelines during the week of March 2. Please note: these time frames are subject to change depending on conditions from our manufacturers. This article should only be used as a guide.

Trusses – 8 Weeks

Due to issues gathering raw materials like plates and wood, truss manufacturers expect a two-month wait time for those to be ready for framing. Ordering trusses early is especially important in the beginning planning stages of your project – you want to make sure you keep your project on schedule.

Windows – 20 Weeks

Depending on the series of windows you purchase from Marvin, you should budget for at least a 20-week wait. These should be among the first items that you order – most of our customers are ordering these before laying a foundation. Work with one of our window and door specialists with your plans, and we can help get that order started. We can walk you through all the available options and show renderings of the designs.

Cabinets – 8-14 Weeks

Due to an increased demand nationwide for new home construction, as well as a shortage of labor and supply chain challenges, many of our cabinet manufacturers are having longer than standard lead times. Cabinets are especially tougher due to the craftsman-like construction of these cabinets. For example, brands like KraftMaid and Decora pride themselves on a handmade-style cabinet, which typically means a longer production process. It is beneficial to come in early and meet with our designers to pick out the right cabinet layout for your home. Accessories and other parts of your kitchen can be finalized later in some cases.

Countertops – 3 Weeks

Unlike cabinets, you can still order countertops promptly. Manufacturers are estimating about three weeks for these orders to arrive at our store.

Doors – 5 Weeks

Are you replacing a front door or looking at other doors for your home? Average industry lead times hover around five weeks as manufacturers gather raw materials. Like windows, doors can be ordered weeks in advance and stored at the job site if they are stored in a dry and covered area.

Blinds and Shades – 8 Weeks

While the exact lead times may vary depending on the size and type of the blind or shade you are ordering, you should budget about two months for your Hunter Douglas blinds and shades to come in. This timeline does not account for the ordering process from our end, which includes consultations at our stores and measuring on-site.

Lumber – Days

For in-stock items, the supply chain has loosened up enough to wait only a few days for lumber products. Keep in mind for special ordered items or special treatment, that timeline might be a little longer.

As mentioned before, these time frames are subject to change and might be different depending on the individual manufacturer or brand. We hope this guide will be helpful as you plan your next project! Have any questions about ordering in any of these categories? Do not hesitate to reach out to our sales teams in Madison, Crozet, or Charlottesville – Count on Cardinal for your project!