The Best Season for Home Renovation
Remodeling a home involves making numerous decisions and overcoming challenges, such as selecting materials, managing budgets, and dealing with intricate design choices. Choosing the best time of the year for such a project adds another layer of complexity. Seasonal factors, weather conditions, and contractor availability play crucial roles in determining the success of a remodel. Successfully navigating these variables requires careful planning and foresight to ensure a smooth transition from planning to execution.
To get a professional POV, we tapped Quinn Babcock, Construction & Design Operations Lead at Block Renovation, and were surprised to learn why the contractor community sees wintertime as the perfect time to tackle a home improvement project.
Why You Should Choose a Winter Remodel
While each season has its pros and cons for renovations, did you know that the winter months present a well-balanced time to opt for your project with potential cost savings, and logistical advantages?
(Geography Dependent) Moderate Weather: Depending on where you live, the winter months can offer moderate temperatures for outdoor projects. This is favorable for most renovation activities, especially exterior projects like painting or roofing, which require specific conditions for optimal results. Even if you live in an area with cold weather conditions, it's a great time of year for interior projects; bad weather shouldn't stop a homeowner from pursuing a bathroom or kitchen remodel during the colder months.
Availability of Contractors: Summer months can be a popular time for many contractors. By winter, their busy summer season is ending and their calendars may begin to open up. Avoid the peak season and choose a more preferred time. Your construction crew may even have an easier time paying attention to your remodeling project when they're less distracted by other jobs, which can even lead to faster completion times.
Improved Market Value: If you're considering listing your home in the busy spring market, fall and winter renovations ensure your property is in top shape and can get you a better price. Go ahead–it's a great time to upgrade your kitchen cabinets or plan a major indoor remodeling project, like a bathroom remodel.
Seasonal Discounts: Regardless if you're in a warmer or colder climate, as retailers prepare for new inventory for the coming year, you’ll often see winter deals on appliances and holiday discounts on materials. This leads to average cost savings, which is a major benefit on your house renovation project.
Mood Enhancement: As days get shorter and there's less natural light, a renovation can boost your spirits. New spaces, colors, or upgraded lighting can counteract the potential mood dips or seasonal affective disorder you may experience during the shift to winter. Plus, once spring and summer arrive, you're free to enjoy outdoor activities and warm weather without disruption.
