As we approach the beginning of hurricane season, many people are considering what protection they want for their homes, including the possibility of upgrading to hurricane windows and doors. Historically, this causes a slight uptick in lead times for our team and manufacturers. This year, there are many factors creating unprecedented lead times across our industry, as well as most home building industries.
Firstly, the effects of COVID-19 are being universally felt. In terms of materials production, enhanced safety protocols have reduced the number of employees allowed in manufacturing lines at any time, and extra cleaning and sanitation protocols may cause further delays. These practices are essential for the health and safety of employees at all stages of the supply chain. Our manufacturers are participating in these changes, as are their suppliers.
Another less expected impact came in the form of powerful winter storms in Texas. While we are just starting to hear about the effects of Winter Storm Uri in February, they are predicted to have supply chain impacts for months to come. Texas is a world leader in the production of plastics, which are used in the production of everything from cars to computers to home building products. Increased demand for products like face shields, computer chips, and medical supplies also put a strain on plastics production in 2020, as did a slew of storms during the 2020 hurricane season.
The freezing conditions caused by Winter Storm Uri then knocked out power across the state of Texas, and at these manufacturing plants. According to the Wall Street Journal, “The power outages brought the world’s largest petrochemical complex to a standstill… and analysts said it could be months more before all are fully back.” (WSJ) Among those delayed materials is polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is used in many trades involved in homebuilding.
This plastics shortage has compounded pre-existing delays in the production and delivery of our impact windows and doors, especially vinyl windows. While everyone is experiencing changes and challenges, choosing a material like aluminum or wood-clad may provide somewhat shorter lead times.
Local municipalities are also experiencing delays in the processing of building permits. With reduced office capacity and an increase in demand for building and remodeling, many permits can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks to process.
Every industry has experienced impacts from a variety of events over the last year, and we appreciate our client’s patience and understanding as we navigate the changes to the impact window and door and building industries.
