Architectural PU profiles cover a wide range of products for both commercial and residential applications. The same factory typically produces profiles for both markets, with the products adapted to the specific requirements of each.
The most common residential applications are the standard trim elements — cornices, baseboards, chair rails, panel moldings, door surrounds, window casings, and the larger architectural elements (ceiling medallions, fireplace mantels, columns). The residential market values the aesthetic range, the ease of install, and the durability of PU.
The most common commercial applications are the same trim elements, but with different specifications. Commercial applications typically require higher density PU (for durability), fire retardant PU (for safety), and pre-finished PU (for faster install). The commercial market values the lifecycle cost, the code compliance, and the install speed of PU.
For sourcing, the right approach is to identify the factory that has experience in the specific application — residential, commercial, or both. A factory that has experience in both markets can advise on the right products and the right specifications for the specific project.
A practical note on the residential vs. commercial specifications. The main difference between residential and commercial specifications is the density and the fire rating. Residential applications can use medium density (100 to 200 kg/m³) and standard fire rating (Class C). Commercial applications typically require high density (200+ kg/m³) and Class A or Class B fire rating. The factory should be able to provide both specifications, with the appropriate documentation.
A practical note on the volume. Commercial projects typically have larger volumes than residential projects, which means the factory direct pricing is more accessible. A 50-room hotel project can order directly from the factory, with the pricing and the lead time negotiated for the specific project. A single residential project typically orders through a wholesale distributor, with the pricing and the lead time based on the distributor's stock.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is your factory MOQ?
A: MOQ depends on the product line: stock cornice and skirting profiles start at 200 linear meters per shipment, wall panels at 50 square meters, and custom OEM/ODM profiles at 500 linear meters or 1,000 pieces. Sample orders are accepted for most catalog items, with sample fees credited toward the first bulk order.
Q: What are your standard lead times?
A: Stock catalog items ship within 7–15 days of order confirmation. Custom tooling for OEM profiles takes 25–35 days for sample approval plus 20–30 days for bulk production. Air freight from Guangzhou / Shenzhen takes 5–10 days to most major ports; sea freight takes 18–32 days depending on destination.
Q: Do you offer OEM and ODM services?
A: Yes. Our factory offers full OEM (your brand, our tooling) and ODM (your 3D model or sample, our design team reverse-engineers and produces custom tooling) services. We can sign NDAs, work from hand sketches, photographs, or CAD files, and ship samples for approval before bulk production.
Q: What are your payment terms?
A: Standard terms are 30% T/T deposit on order confirmation and 70% balance against a copy of the B/L. For new buyers we also accept 100% L/C at sight. Long-term partners can apply for open-account terms after three successful orders.