Builder’s Checklist Before Ordering Custom Aluminium Windows

Quick Answer

Before ordering custom aluminium windows, builders should verify architectural drawings, confirm rough opening dimensions, review glazing requirements, coordinate installation details and ensure the selected window system satisfies the project’s structural and performance requirements. Careful planning helps reduce manufacturing errors, site delays and costly variations.

Introduction

Custom aluminium windows are manufactured specifically for each project.

Unlike off-the-shelf products, they cannot simply be exchanged if measurements or specifications change after production has begun.

For builders, careful preparation before placing an order can improve:

• Project scheduling
• Installation efficiency
• Cost control
• Site coordination
• Overall construction quality

At MEICHEN Windows & Doors, we work closely with builders throughout the design, manufacturing and delivery process to help minimise errors and support successful project outcomes.

Step 1 – Review the Latest Construction Drawings

Before preparing a window order, confirm that the construction team is working from the latest approved documentation.

Review:

• Architectural drawings
• Window schedules
• Structural drawings
• Engineering revisions
• Consultant updates

Ordering from outdated drawings can result in incorrect window sizes or specifications.

Step 2 – Confirm Rough Opening Dimensions

The rough opening should be measured carefully before final production dimensions are confirmed.

Verify:

• Width
• Height
• Squareness
• Plumb
• Level

Measurements should be taken at multiple points because construction tolerances can vary.

Do not assume every opening is perfectly square.

Step 3 – Verify Wall Construction

Window installation details differ depending on the wall system.

Examples include:

• Timber frame
• Steel frame
• Brick veneer
• Double brick
• Concrete construction
• Lightweight cladding systems

The wall type influences:

• Flashing details
• Fixing methods
• Waterproofing
• Installation sequencing

Step 4 – Confirm Window Types

Each opening should match the approved schedule.

Common window types include:

• Awning windows
• Casement windows
• Sliding windows
• Fixed windows
• Double hung windows

Confirm:

• Opening direction
• Handing
• Ventilation requirements
• Safety considerations

Step 5 – Review Glazing Requirements

Glass selection should be confirmed before production begins.

The specification may include:

• Double glazing
• Low-E glass
• Toughened safety glass
• Laminated safety glass
• Obscure glass
• Acoustic glazing

The final selection should align with the project documentation and applicable Australian Standards.

Step 6 – Check Performance Requirements

Different projects require different performance levels.

Confirm requirements for:

• Wind loading
• Water penetration resistance
• Air infiltration
• Energy performance
• Acoustic performance

These requirements should be identified before manufacturing starts.

Step 7 – Select Frame Finish

Frame finishes should match the approved architectural specification.

Review:

• Powder-coated colours
• Surface finish
• Internal and external colour selections
• Finish consistency across the project

Ordering all windows together may help maintain colour consistency for large developments.

Step 8 – Confirm Hardware

Hardware should suit both the design intent and building function.

Review:

• Handles
• Locks
• Hinges
• Friction stays
• Restrictors (where required)

Also confirm any accessibility or security requirements before production.

Step 9 – Coordinate Delivery and Lead Times

Custom windows are manufactured specifically for each project.

Builders should coordinate:

• Manufacturing schedule
• Delivery sequence
• Site readiness
• Storage area
• Installation programme

Receiving windows too early may increase the risk of site damage, while late delivery can delay following trades.

Step 10 – Prepare for Installation

Before delivery, verify that:

• Openings are complete.
• Waterproofing is ready.
• Flashings have been coordinated.
• Access equipment is available.
• Installation crews understand the project requirements.

Good preparation improves installation efficiency and helps maintain product performance.

Common Ordering Mistakes

Builders can reduce delays by avoiding these common issues:

• Measuring before structural work is complete.
• Using outdated window schedules.
• Changing specifications after manufacturing begins.
• Forgetting to confirm glazing requirements.
• Overlooking hardware selections.
• Failing to coordinate installation sequencing.

Early planning is generally less costly than making changes later.

Australian Standards

Custom window systems should be considered alongside applicable Australian Standards.

AS 2047

AS 2047 specifies performance requirements for external windows and glazed doors, including:

• Structural performance
• Air infiltration
• Water penetration resistance
• Operating force

AS 1288

AS 1288 provides requirements relating to:

• Glass selection
• Safety glazing
• Installation considerations

Builders should ensure glazing specifications remain consistent with project documentation.

AS/NZS 1170 Series

Structural engineers use the AS/NZS 1170 series to determine project wind actions.

Window systems should be specified to satisfy the engineering requirements for the building.

Why Choose MEICHEN Windows & Doors?

MEICHEN manufactures customised aluminium windows and doors for Australian residential and architectural projects.

Our services include:

• Custom manufacturing
• Technical support
• Project coordination
• Quality-controlled production
• Performance glazing options
• Flexible project scheduling

We work with:

• Builders
• Architects
• Developers
• Residential construction companies

to support efficient project delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should builders finalise window sizes?

Window dimensions should be confirmed only after the relevant structural openings and project documentation have been verified.

Can specifications be changed after production starts?

Changes may affect manufacturing schedules and project delivery. Final specifications should therefore be confirmed before production begins.

Why is the rough opening important?

The rough opening determines whether the manufactured window can be installed correctly while allowing appropriate installation tolerances and weatherproofing.

Should builders coordinate with manufacturers during design?

Early coordination often improves constructability, reduces variations and helps identify practical manufacturing considerations before production.

Why choose custom aluminium windows?

Custom manufacturing allows window systems to match the project’s architectural design, structural openings and performance requirements instead of relying on standard sizes.

Conclusion

Ordering custom aluminium windows is a critical milestone in any residential construction project.

By confirming drawings, dimensions, glazing, finishes, hardware and performance requirements before manufacturing begins, builders can reduce delays, improve installation efficiency and minimise unnecessary variations.

MEICHEN Windows & Doors partners with Australian builders to manufacture customised aluminium window systems that support efficient construction, reliable performance and high-quality residential outcomes.