The decision to commission a custom gun safe or vault is an investment in security, preservation, and aesthetics. But unlike purchasing a safe off a showroom floor, custom fabrication requires patience. The total time from the initial consultation to final installation can vary significantly based on the complexity of the design, is it a simple modification of a standard model or a bespoke, climate-controlled vault room?

While timelines differ between manufacturers, a complex, high-security custom build typically takes anywhere from 3 to 5 months (12 to 20 weeks). Here is a breakdown of the four main phases that determine your final timeline.

Phase 1: Design, Engineering, and Approval (2–4 Weeks)

This initial phase is where the vision comes to life and where most details are finalized. It is perhaps the most critical part of the process, as any changes later can cause significant delays.

• Consultation: Meeting with the designer to determine security needs, aesthetic style (Mission, Shaker, or Modern, as seen in the Canvas document), interior layout, and locking mechanism.
• CAD Drafting: Engineers create computer-aided design (CAD) blueprints, integrating all specifications, from the steel gauge to the dehumidifier placement.
• Client Approval: The final drawings are sent to you for sign-off. Tip: Review these drawings meticulously, especially external dimensions and the location of lock/handle hardware. Once approved, fabrication begins.

Phase 2: Material Acquisition and Preparation (1–3 Weeks)

After design approval, the manufacturer sources and prepares all necessary materials.

• Steel Ordering: Specialized steel plating (often heavy-gauge, 7-gauge or thicker) is ordered, cut, and prepared for the plasma or laser cutting phase.
• Custom Woodwork: If you chose a furniture style (like Mission or Shaker), the specified hardwood (e.g., oak, maple) is selected and prepared for milling and staining to match your home’s specifications.
• Component Sourcing: High-security locks, certified fire-rated materials, electrical components (for lighting and climate control), and modular racking systems are ordered and staged.

Phase 3: Fabrication and Welding (4–8 Weeks)

This is the longest and most labor-intensive phase, involving intense metalworking.

• Cutting and Bending: The steel is cut according to the CAD specifications, and the walls and door blanks are precisely bent using powerful press brakes.
• Welding and Assembly: The safe body is welded together, and the vault door (the most complex component) is assembled, often incorporating multiple layers of steel, barrier materials, and drill-resistant hard plate.
• Security Integration: The locking mechanism housing, internal boltwork, and fireboard lining are installed into the door and body.

Note: If you ordered a modular safe, the fabrication time might be slightly shorter, but the quality control and test-fitting of the panels must be equally rigorous.

Phase 4: Finishing, Outfitting, and Quality Control (3–5 Weeks)

In the final phase, the safe becomes the customized piece you envisioned.

• Exterior Finish: The safe is sanded, painted, or powder-coated. If applicable, the custom wood cabinetry is applied, stained, and sealed.
• Interior Installation: The interior is built out, including the specialized racking systems, custom drawers, carpet/fabric lining, and internal LED lighting. Climate control components are wired and tested.
• Lock Installation and Testing: The chosen lock (mechanical, electronic, or biometric) is installed, and the safe is subjected to rigorous cycling tests to ensure flawless function and alignment.
• Final Inspection: A final quality control check confirms all security ratings, fire ratings, and aesthetic details meet the client-approved specifications.

The Delivery Window (1–2 Weeks)

Once complete, the safe is crated and prepared for freight shipping. The delivery time depends heavily on your geographic location and the complexity of the final-mile installation, which includes specialized movers who handle the anchoring and leveling.

While the process requires patience, the result is a superior, personalized security solution perfectly tailored to your collection and your home.

Call to Action (CTA)

Stop Waiting, Start Designing: The sooner you approve the blueprints, the sooner your custom safe is complete.Contact our custom build consultants today to get started and receive a personalized timeline estimate for your dream safe!