The #1 Reason Division 8 & 10 Delays Happen—and How to Prevent Them

Even a small delay can have a widespread impact, affecting schedules and budgets across a project. When it comes to Division 8 (doors, frames, hardware) and Division 10 (specialties), these materials have potential to cause last-minute slowdowns.

But what’s really causing the problem? And more importantly, how can you avoid it?

Why Division 8 & 10 Materials Cause Project Delays

The biggest reason Division 8 & 10 materials delay projects is simple: lead times don’t match the project schedule.

Unlike commodity materials, doors, frames, hardware, and specialty items are not always available off the shelf. Many require custom orders, longer manufacturing times, or special coordination, which can create unexpected delays if not accounted for early.

Common issues that lead to delays:

• Custom materials require extended lead times – Hollow metal doors, fire-rated frames, and specialty restroom partitions often have manufacturing times of six to twelve weeks. Many projects underestimate these timelines.

• Specification errors result in reorders – If fire ratings, ADA compliance, or hardware compatibility are incorrect, the only solution is a full reorder, which can add weeks to the schedule.

• Supply chain bottlenecks – Materials such as aluminum frames and specialty partitions can be impacted by raw material shortages, leading to unpredictable delays.

• Last-minute orders increase costs – When materials are ordered late, expedited shipping or schedule adjustments become necessary, both of which add to the overall project cost.

How General Contractors Can Prevent These Delays

Division 8 & 10 delays aren’t inevitable. With the right planning and supplier partnership, general contractors can keep projects moving without last-minute scrambling.

1. Engage Your Division 8 & 10 Supplier Early

General contractors should prioritize Division 8 & 10 materials from the beginning of a project, not just when it’s time for installation. Early engagement allows for:

• Locked-in lead times to prevent unexpected wait periods.

• Verification of product availability to avoid supply chain disruptions.

• Accurate specifications to eliminate last-minute reorders.

2. Plan Lead Times Into Your Project Schedule

Assuming Division 8 & 10 materials are readily available is a mistake. Many require custom orders that take weeks to fulfill.

• Confirm manufacturer lead times before placing orders.

• Align material delivery dates with project milestones.

• Build in buffer time to accommodate changes or unexpected adjustments.

3. Consolidate Orders to Reduce Risk

Ordering doors, frames, and hardware from multiple suppliers increases the risk of mismatches and delays.

• Work with a single supplier to streamline coordination.

• Ensure all materials are compatible before finalizing the order.

• Minimize change orders by verifying specifications in advance.

4. Work With a Supplier Who Understands Scheduling Risks

A reliable Division 8 & 10 supplier does more than deliver materials—they help prevent scheduling issues before they happen.

• Confirm lead time expectations before finalizing orders.

• Use real-time order tracking to avoid last-minute surprises.

• Partner with a supplier who proactively identifies potential delays and offers solutions early in the process.

Kircher Materials: Keeping Your Project on Schedule

At Kircher Materials, we understand that timing is critical in construction. We help general contractors prevent Division 8 & 10 delays by ensuring:

• Orders are accurate from the start, eliminating the need for reorders.

• Lead times are clearly communicated, allowing for proper scheduling.

• Deliveries are coordinated to avoid supply chain disruptions.

If you’re planning a project and want to ensure your Division 8 & 10 materials arrive on time and exactly as expected, contact Kircher Materials today.