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A custom door order is a sequence of decisions, not a single product selection. The process is smoother when opening information, design direction, included components, and approval responsibilities are documented before production begins.
1. Prepare the initial enquiry
Start with the delivery location, exterior or interior use, approximate opening width and height, configuration, and a straight-on photo or drawing. Add two or three annotated design references. If the measurements are preliminary, label them as preliminary.
For sidelights, transoms, double doors, or arches, include the total opening size. Avoid sending an unlabelled list of numbers.
2. Confirm feasibility and missing information
The first review should identify what is known, what is a preference, and what still needs verification. Questions may concern the frame, wall depth, threshold, exposure, glass, hardware, swing, arch shape, or installation conditions.
This is the point to identify project-specific compliance or consultant requirements. A door supplier’s visual catalogue is not a substitute for building approval or professional advice.
3. Compare a written quotation scope
A useful quotation identifies the product or design reference, dimensions or assumptions, material description, finish, glass, frame, hardware, included services, delivery destination, and exclusions. It should also explain the approval and change process.
Do not compare prices until the scopes are comparable. A door slab, a framed unit, and a complete entry with sidelights and transom are different packages.
4. Verify dimensions
Agree who is responsible for final measurement. Record whether each dimension describes a rough opening, finished opening, frame, complete unit, or slab. Existing openings should be checked at multiple points and assessed for square, level, and plumb by a competent person.
5. Approve the design and specification
Review the final title or model, dimensions, configuration, material, panel or carving layout, glass, finish, handing, hardware, included items, and delivery details. Drawings should carry a revision and date so everyone approves the same version.
Ask questions before signing off. Changes after approval may affect time, cost, or feasibility.
6. Production and progress communication
Confirm when the quoted lead time begins and what can change it. Custom work may include material preparation, joinery, carving, assembly, finishing, glazing, hardware preparation, and quality checks. The exact sequence varies by specification.
7. Delivery planning
Confirm destination, access, packaging, unloading responsibility, storage, and inspection procedure. A large or heavy door unit requires suitable handling. Do not leave finished woodwork exposed on site without an agreed protection plan.
8. Installation coordination
Clarify whether installation is included. If another contractor installs the unit, provide the approved drawings and relevant supplier instructions. The opening, support, flashing, sealing, hardware, and adjustment responsibilities should be understood before delivery.
Order checklist
- Delivery location and site contact.
- Verified opening information.
- Approved drawing and specification revision.
- Material, finish, glass, hardware, and included components.
- Price, deposit, balance, and change terms.
- Lead-time starting point.
- Delivery, unloading, storage, and installation responsibilities.
- Care and warranty documents where applicable.
Frequently asked questions
Can I request a quote with approximate dimensions?
You can begin a discussion, but label them clearly. Final production dimensions require the agreed verification process.
When should the design be considered final?
When the approved drawing and written specification align and the responsible parties have confirmed them.
What should I inspect on delivery?
Follow the supplier’s procedure and check packaging, visible condition, quantity, and documentation before storage or installation.
