The typical stages
- Enquiry & rough quote — based on description or photos, usually same-day to a couple of days
- Site visit & measurement — scheduled once finishes are ready, timing depends on your site's construction progress
- Design & material confirmation — grade, finish, and design sign-off
- Fabrication — varies significantly with design complexity and current order volume
- Installation — typically the shortest stage once material is ready
What actually causes delays
- Waiting on imported specialty material (see our import timeline guide)
- Design changes after fabrication has started
- Site not being ready for installation on the agreed date
What to ask upfront
Get a specific timeline estimate for YOUR project, not a generic industry number — and ask what happens to that estimate if your site isn't ready on schedule. A fabricator with a clear, specific answer is more reliable than one who's vague.