The first thing a customer wants to know from us is their fitted wardrobe installation timeline. It is the most common question asked, how long does a fitted wardrobe installation take?
To give a thorough understanding of the installation duration, we have broken it down into factors, time frame, process, reasons for delay, etc., in this blog.
A usual time frame for installing a fitted wardrobe is 1-3 days, where it takes around 3-6 weeks to build the fitted wardrobe.
A wardrobe fitting is the process of installing a wardrobe that fits perfectly in the dedicated space, keeping the design and functionality in mind. Let’s dive ahead to plan better, especially if you’re coordinating it with other home improvement tasks.
- It depends. If you’re fitting a basic pre-built wardrobe, it might only take a few hours. But if you’re fitting a bespoke wardrobe with complex joins, sliding doors, or built-in lighting, it might take a day or two.
And if you’re fitting a large wardrobe with lots of compartments or a complex installation such as built-in or walk-in wardrobes, it might take several days.
- In addition, if there are any unforeseen complications such as irregularities in the walls or design changes at the last minute, the wardrobe fitting timeline can be affected.
Therefore, it is best to consult the professionals and have a clear idea about the installation plan so that you can have a realistic idea about the wardrobe fitting duration.
Factors that Influence Wardrobe Fitting Time
The fitting time for a wardrobe can vary based on several factors, which we will discuss below. The complexity of the wardrobe design. The number of panels or sections, custom features, or accessories
The size and layout of the wardrobe, understanding these factors will help you prepare better for the fitting and make the installation more organised and efficient.
Size and Complexity of the Wardrobe
Size: If you have a larger wardrobe space, it will take longer to install a wardrobe than a smaller wardrobe.
A basic fitted wardrobe design is usually done in a day, but large walk-in closets with multiple sections can take more than a day.
Design: A fitted wardrobe design is often more highlighted than a standard wardrobe, thus the fitting process can sometimes be more time-consuming.
A bespoke wardrobe, with many shelves and customised accessories, will certainly take longer to fit than a standard, off-the-shelf wardrobe.
Materials and Finish
The heavy materials of different characteristics are also considered a factor because they also affect installation time.
Heavy materials like solid wood take longer to install because of their density, which needs extra care and requires precision in handling these materials to ensure accuracy and quality of installation.
Finishing: Special finishes like high-gloss lacquers or textured wardrobes require additional time for installation, and it takes time to finish the wardrobe to achieve flawless results.
These finishes are tailored for perfection and an aesthetic look with additional time for thorough detailing to ensure quality and a finished look.
Customisation Levels
Fitted wardrobes create customised storage and beautiful designs as per choice. These customisation features require extra care during installation, which may increase the overall timeline in the fitting. Each part is built and fitted separately with high details.
Pre-Installation Preparations
Preparation of the area: The installation cannot start until the space is prepared. You need to remove the existing furniture or wardrobes. If the space is not clear beforehand, this can increase the duration of the project.
Structural Adjustments: Walls and floors should be level, and any structural problems should be addressed in advance. Uneven surfaces or other unexpected challenges can cause delays. Taking the time to do what’s necessary will help prevent delays and ensure a smoother installation process.
Overall, a simple wardrobe fitting takes one day, but factors like size, complexity of design, material, customisation, area, and preparations prior to installation can extend the time to a week.
For better results, working with professional installers and bringing these factors up ahead of time provides a better timeline for your project.
Typical Time Frame for Wardrobe Installation
The wardrobe installation time varies depending on the design complexity and customisation.
Standard Wardrobe Installation
Standard wardrobes are usually installed quickly. A basic built-in wardrobe can be installed in as little as a half a day to a full day.
Where walk-in wardrobes are usually larger, they may take 1 to 3 days to install completely. These estimates are based on finished components and minimal customisation.
Bespoke Wardrobe Installation
Custom wardrobes take longer as they are produced based on your design choices. It starts with the design consultation, which also takes 1 to 2 weeks.
Next is the design development phase, which needs 2 to 4 weeks. Material sourcing needs 1 to 2 weeks, and production needs 4 to 6 weeks. In the end, installation requires 1 to 3 days based on the complexity and size of the wardrobe.
Overall, a simple wardrobe design installation will take a day or two at most, whereas a customised wardrobe with multiple features will take a week.
And it’s important to work closely with the designers so that you understand the process and can set realistic expectations about when the project will be completed.
Suggested Reading: Cost of Installing a Fitted Walk-In Wardrobe in London
How to Prepare for a Smooth Installation Process?
Be prepared for wardrobe installation in advance, and you’ll save time, avoid difficulties so everything runs smoothly. Here’s what to do:
Clear the Space Beforehand
Before the installers arrive, clear the space completely. Remove all clothes, shoes, accessories, and any other items that are in or around your current wardrobe.
If you are replacing an old wardrobe, take it down if you can, or speak to your installer about removing it for you. This is a great time to declutter, decide what to keep, donate, or throw out before filling your new wardrobe.
Electrical and Wall Considerations
If you’re planning to include any electrical work in your wardrobe features, like lights or built-in charging stations, discuss it with your designer in the beginning, so they can make adjustments.
Similarly, the symmetry of the walls and their condition. If you need to fix or repair them, do it before the wardrobe installation process.
Address Potential Delays
If you’re installing new hardwood floors or renovating the interior, make sure you finish it before installing the wardrobe. Which can help to make everything fit perfectly without last-minute fixes. Like wall painting or adding textures, lighting in the room, etc.
Few Tips for a Stress-Free Installation:
- To prevent dust and scratches on nearby furniture and floors, lay down a plastic sheet or an old bedsheet.
- Plan for kids and pets: keep them out of the work area so they don’t get hurt, and keep the room vacant to let the professionals work efficiently.
- With a little preparation beforehand, your wardrobe installation will go smoothly, and you’ll have a stylish and functional space in no time!
What to Expect During a Wardrobe Installation
Installing a wardrobe is an exciting way to get organised, but knowing what to expect makes it all go smoother. Here’s what you can expect during installation and how our installers handle unexpected challenges.
Step-by-Step Overview of the Installation Process
1. Delivery and Inspection of Materials
All the panels, shelves, and fittings are delivered to your home before the installation begins. The installers will check everything to make sure there’s no damage or missing items. If anything does come up missing or is scratched, the installation might be delayed until replacements are delivered.
2. Assembly and Fitting
Once you are happy with everything, the installers will put together the wardrobe, including:
- Mark the installation area and make sure that the floor and walls are level.
- Secure the frame in place whether it’s a freestanding or built-in wardrobe.
- You’ll also need to put in the interior elements, such as shelves, hanging rods, drawers, and dividers.
- Attaching doors, hinged or sliding, needs to be done in an aligned way so they move smoothly.
It will take some time to sort through all of the material, a few hours at least or maybe even a day or two.
3. Final Adjustments & Quality Checks
Once the wardrobe is put together, the installers will make final adjustments to ensure everything is properly secured and aligned. This includes:
- Door movement—check doors open and close without holding.
- Ensuring shelves and drawers are level and properly fitted.
- Cleaning up any dust or debris from the installation.
You will then be shown around the finished wardrobe to see and feel the difference.
4. How Installers Handle Unexpected Challenges
Even with perfect planning, installation often throws curveballs. Here’s what experts do differently:
- Uneven walls or floors: The fitters put in shims or adjust the wardrobe’s fittings so everything is level and stable.
- Missing or damaged parts: If something is damaged when it arrives, they may put up other sections while they wait for replacements. Some companies keep spare parts for common problems on hand.
- Electrical hiccups: If there are any stray electrical outlets or wiring behind the wardrobe space, they might have to stop and discuss options like adjusting the design or moving the outlet.
By knowing what to expect, you’ll be more prepared for your wardrobe installation and get the most out of your wardrobe with no hassle!
5. Expert Tips to Minimise Delays in Wardrobe Installation
A wardrobe installation should be a simple process, but if you’re not careful, it can easily become delayed. Here are our top tips for avoiding delays so you can get your wardrobe up and running on time.
1. Choose Experienced Installers
You also need the right people on your side. Experienced installers make the most of tricky spaces to line everything up perfectly and deal with any unexpected challenges calmly.
Check online reviews, ask for recommendations, and make sure they’ve got experience with your kind of wardrobe, especially if it’s a custom design.
2. Double-Check Measurements and Designs
One of the most common causes of delays is incorrect measurements. Before installation day, double-check that your wardrobe dimensions will fit your space exactly.
Ceiling height, wall alignment, and obstructions like light switches or power outlets. Make sure the designers also take another measurement if possible before materials are ordered.
Even small errors can result in doors that don’t close properly or gaps that require extra work to fix.
3. Ensure All Materials Are Delivered on Time
Nothing delays installation more than missing or damaged materials. Ensure your supplier delivers all panels, fittings, screws, and accessories well in advance.
For custom items, find out the manufacturing time and account for delays. Inspect everything when it arrives so you don’t get nasty surprises when work starts.
But by planning ahead and working with the right people, you can avoid delays and have your new wardrobe ready to wear fast and with no stress!
Conclusion
A wardrobe installation is more than just fitting furniture; it’s about making your space functional and stylish. Knowing the process, preparing in advance, and using experienced professionals ensures a smooth, hassle-free installation.
- Clearing space
- Addressing wall or electrical issues
- Choosing installers
- Checking measurements
- Material delivery on time
- Unexpected issues like uneven floors or missing parts are taken care of by professionals so you can have peace of mind.
A fitted wardrobe creates a difference in storage and home value. Follow these expert tips for a smooth installation. Standard or bespoke, planning and communication with your designer are key to success.
With a clear idea of what to expect, you can go ahead with wardrobe installation knowing that you’ll get a well-planned, organised space that’s just right for you!
FAQs
1. Can a wardrobe be fitted in one day?
It depends. A small standard wardrobe design with finished fittings can be installed in a day. Bigger or customised wardrobes can take 2-5 days depending on wall adjustments, shelving, and add-on features.
2. What delays the wardrobe fitting process?
A few things can cause delays, but the most common are incorrect measurements, missing or damaged materials, and existing problems like uneven walls or flooring. Electrical work or reinforcements take longer. To avoid delays, make sure materials arrive on time and your space is ready.
3. Do bespoke designs take significantly longer to install?
Yes, custom wardrobes usually take longer than standard ones. They’re made to order for specific sizes and styles, so they take longer to assemble, fit, and adjust. Built-in lighting, special finishes, or more complex shelving can also make installation take longer. It takes longer to get your fitted wardrobe, but it’s worth the wait!