In 2021, businesses are experiencing unprecedented supply chain delays and disruptions. This has left 82% of Americans worried that these issues will interfere with their life plans, like home improvement projects. While it’s true that it might take longer to get products and supplies than it has in the past, you can still plan for projects around your home. It just might require adjusting your expectations a bit. If you’re thinking about getting new windows for your home, for example, having a better understanding of what to expect with manufacturer lead times can help you plan out your project.
Read through this guide to learn more about the cause for the delays, how long you can expect to wait for your windows to be ready, and what you can do to help make your project go smoothly.
What’s Causing Window Delays?
Window manufacturers have been dealing with delays in glass and vinyl extrusions, which are key components of creating windows. Since almost all window manufacturers use the same suppliers, this means that when supply chain disruptions happen, it affects the whole industry. Unfortunately, this means that contractors can’t just decide to get their windows from a different manufacturer to help speed up the process.
In addition to supply chain issues, there’s also a higher demand for home improvement products like windows. During the pandemic, many homeowners have decided to prioritize updating their homes, as they’ve been spending so much more time inside.
Since more people are booking window installation projects, there’s an even greater demand for the limited supply, leading to even more delays.
What Is the Average Lead Time on New Windows?
So, how long can you expect it to take when you order new windows for your home? The truth is that all of the following factors can impact your project timeline:
- The demand in your specific area
- Changes to overall supply levels
- The type of windows you want
- When you book your project
Currently, you can expect that from the time you place your order for your new windows, to the installation date, it will take upwards of 6 months. So, if you want new windows before the summer, you should plan to order them no later than the end of the year.
Of course, that timeline can change quickly. Earlier in the pandemic, it was common to wait between 4 and 7 months after ordering your windows. Now, some products can even take up to 12 months to arrive.
For the most up-to-date estimate, reach out to a local window installation company like our team here at Semper Fi to learn more about what to expect.
What You Can Do to Help Keep Your Project on Track
We understand that it’s frustrating having to wait when you’re excited about updating your home. Here are a few things that you can do to help make it easier when dealing with long lead times.
Choose the Right Contractor
First things first, choosing the right contractor for the job can make all the difference. Look for a window installer who operates with honesty and transparency, so you’re not in the dark about your project.
Here at Semper Fi, we’ll communicate with you every step of the way, so you’re never left wondering when your windows will be ready.
Plan Ahead
Secondly, try to be strategic about when you plan your project. Think about whether you need your new windows for a specific time period and work backward from there. If you’re hosting guests in the fall, for example, you should start your project in the early spring to give yourself plenty of time. Then, if delays happen, you’ll already have extra time built into your project.
It’s best to start at least the initial phase of your project planning a year in advance if possible since we still don’t know how long these extended lead times will last.
Don’t Settle for Less Than the Best When You Get New Windows
When you’re ready to order new windows for your home, the Semper Fi team is here to help you every step of the way. We’ll set expectations with you about estimated lead times based on the specifics of your project and continue to communicate with you so you’re always in the know.
If you’re ready to take the first step in updating your home’s windows, schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.
