There’s a lot to do when you own a home. Sometimes, it can feel like it’s never ending! Among all the things you have to think about whenever you start any home improvement project is something you may or may not have considered seriously—timing.
From small interior painting projects to large additions, here are the best times to tackle some of the most popular home improvement projects.
Roofing and Siding
Among the most popular and most important projects any homeowner can undertake are roofing replacements and siding installations.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, having your roof replaced in the summer is the most popular time of year for this project. The same is true of a siding installation. Because these are outdoor projects, they can be nearly impossible to complete in the winter when it’s cold and snowy. The spring and fall are slightly less busy times to have these projects done, but the weather can be unpredictable, which is why many contractors and homeowners stick to the summer.
The key is to contact contractors early. If you know you want to have your roofing or siding done in the summer, call installers after the first of the year to ensure you get put on their schedule when it’s convenient for you and them.
Window Installations
The summer is a popular time for window installations, but because knowledgeable installers can install windows more quickly than contractors who have to tackle roofs and siding, spring is one of the best times to have your windows replaced. The weather is good enough to tackle a window project that can usually be completed in a day. Plus, you’ll avoid the rush of people who want to have their windows replaced in the summer.
The earlier you plan, the better. Take time the fall before to research windows and figure out which ones would be best for your home. Then, reach out to contractors to get quotes for your project. They will likely have to order your windows before they can be installed, so ironing out the details the winter before is the best way to get your windows in by the spring.
Lawn and Garden
Planning to do some stuff in the yard? Whether you’re resodding the lawn or planting flowers, the spring is a great time to dig in the dirt. Plus, it’s the only time to spend serious time in your yard if you’re planting a vegetable garden.
The excitement of spring is the perfect motivation to get in the yard, but don’t feel like you can’t plant anything once spring has passed. You can plant in the summer, but it can be really hot, so focus on zhoosing up your yard again in the fall. Many trees and shrubs can be planted in the fall, and it’s the best time to plant bulbs, like tulips and daffodils, to spice up your garden.
Deck and Patio
Installing a deck or patio is the best way to spend a little bit more time outdoors, but when is the best time to do it? Skip the summer when it’s hot and humidity can warp untreated wood. Instead, plan to do your deck in late fall or early winter. Not only are many contractors more available during this time of year, it enables you to make sure your deck or patio is ready to go as soon as spring rolls around.
There are a lot of things to consider when planning a deck, so make sure you start thinking about what you want well ahead of time. Iron out the details for your new space so when the weather cools and you’re ready to get started, everything is ready to go.
Bathroom and Kitchen Remodels
Interior spaces can be a challenge to remodel, especially since the best time to remodel may not be when you think.
When it comes to the bathroom, schedule your remodel for the winter. For whatever reason, homeowners love to look into bathroom remodels in the summer. The nice weather must increase everyone’s motivation to get it done! However, the winter is a much better time to tackle the bathroom. Remodelers are a lot less busy, and because it’s an indoor project, it can be completed even when the weather is bad.
You would think planning a kitchen remodel would follow the same rules, but it doesn’t! Try and plan your remodel for the summer instead. Most people grill out and go out to eat more during the summer, which means you’ll need your kitchen less anyway. If you save your project until the winter, you won’t be able to use your grill while your stove is gone!
Painting
There’s no better time to tackle an indoor paint job than the winter when you can’t get up to anything outside anyway! Not to mention, the cold, dry air helps paint dry faster.
Just don’t head outside in the winter to paint your house. It’s better to paint the exterior of your home in the summer when it’s sunny. The temperature fluctuates the least during the day and night, ensuring the paint dries properly. Not to mention, it’s more comfortable to paint outdoors in the summer than the winter!
Additions
There are many additions you may want to consider for your home like:
- In-law suite
- Bedroom
- Bump-outs
- Bathroom
- Garage
No matter what the addition, if it requires a foundation, plan ahead to start construction in the winter. It’s a lot easier to dig and pour foundations when the ground is frozen and the air is dry than it is to dig in the mud in the spring or summer.
If you work with a great contractor, you can complete a home improvement project any time of the year. However, there are some times that are better for some projects and not others. If you want your project to go smoothly and cause the least amount of stress as possible, make sure you follow the tips on this list.
