7- Are we there yet? Long processes and what to realistically expect.
How long does countertop fabrication take?
Ask anyone in the industry “how long does it take to receive my tops?”, and you’ll get the classic “It depends” response. Let’s look at the process and see what factors affect delivery of your project.
Custom metal deposition or cast tops take longer than laminate or stone tops because of differences in manufacturing. Sheet tops tend to have shorter timelines, but not by much.
Here’s how a project moves from your first inquiry to delivery.
The process begins when you reach out. The design process hasn’t started yet, but you might have one or two quote revisions based on the information you supply.
Once you decide to contract, you will go through design. During this portion, you will work out the small details of the project that ensure you’re receiving exactly what you desire.
If there are no CAD files, the client may send physical templates to the manufacturer. Sometimes, the manufacturer may send hard templates back to the client if the CAD files are complex. There will also be a lot of communication between staff members. It can be quite tedious.
Once drawings are approved, your project goes into production.
Once your project ships and arrives on site, it can be installed; see a delivered and coordinated install at Black Tap JFK Terminal 8. Timing depends on design sign-off and the shop schedule; we’ll give you a date once drawings are approved.
In an industry that is competing with wood, stone, laminate, and other engineered surface products that are readily available in local markets, a custom metal timeline can seem long.
Currently, there is limited manufacturing of these products in the country. They are handmade by a skilled team, but making quick changes or increasing production is challenging for many manufacturers.
Streamlining quoting, design, and fabrication is a big challenge for the deposition bar top industry.
3 Spark’s Commitment
At 3 Spark Design, we have addressed this challenge head on, beginning with a better product.
Because you can make small modifications on site, we greatly reduce the back and forth common in the templating process. Fewer revisions mean less stress for you and added savings in capital.
Our precision manufacturing process lets our team of artisans focus on finishing your pieces. They can work on the front of your order while also placing the final pieces in production.
Sometimes shipping can be an issue for large projects. Because we have standard lengths, we have standardized our crate production as well. This means that we can offer liftgate service with any of our products. The crate can get closer to your job with fewer people needed for handling.
Most of our products require only 2 people for installation. Our lightweight products, up to 40% lighter than others, are perfect for team lifting. This reduces the personnel expense on your end.
Call us today to begin your custom design!