While most people plan their home renovations for spring and summer, winter is actually a great time to get started on a lot of home improvements. If you’re looking to make some needed updates, here’s what you need to know and why there’s no time like the present.
1. Any Project Can Be Evergreen
“All projects are doable during the winter months,” notes Richard Davis, vice president and director of design at Remodeling Consultants, with locations in Mamaroneck, NY, and Stamford, CT. The advantage to hiring a seasoned professional is that they have the knowhow to do the job in any weather. He advises against a DIY in inclement weather unless it is a simple cosmetic project that doesn’t require opening the house to the elements. “Whether it be window replacement, adding an addition to the kitchen for a family room, or adding an entire second floor to a house, the weather rarely slows us down,” he says. “We will build an addition and make it weather-tight before incorporating it into the existing home. We can also add a second floor to a house in a way that doesn’t involve tarps or plastic and won’t damage the existing house below.”
2. Faster Timelines
Since many people choose to wait until spring to start on home improvements and renovations, homeowners can take advantage of quicker turnaround times, says Anthony Piscitelli, owner and operator of Sterling Contracting, LLC in Yorktown, NY. “The winter months are often less busy for contractors, providing more time to develop a detailed plan for your renovation,” adds Piscitelli. He adds that starting the planning process early allows your project to be prioritized by your contractor and carefully planned out. “This also gives our team the opportunity to create a comprehensive plan and design that aligns with your vision.” Starting your project in winter also can expedite the permitting process and town approvals by avoiding the rush of spring.
3. Technology Has Improved Tools for Off-Season Work
Winter has its challenges, but advances in materials and tools has enabled contractors to work with more reliable resources through inclement weather. “Innovations such as cold-weather adhesives, paints and concrete mixes, along with insulated concrete blankets, portable heating stations, and advancements in workwear, have significantly improved efficiency and safety,” adds Piscitelli. “These developments allow materials to perform reliably in low temperatures while ensuring workers can operate comfortably and safely, ultimately enabling projects to proceed without compromising quality or productivity.”
4. A Mild Winter is Great for HVAC Upgrades
Homeowners tend to call in the professionals for emergency repairs and installs during times of extreme weather when it comes to HVAC, says Davis. “Try to be selective and choose a time during winter when it’s not too extremely cold to replace or install HVAC,” he says. “Contractors can become overwhelmed with workload if they are expected for an installation or repair during extreme weather conditions.” If you time it right, replacing your AC makes sense in winter because you aren’t using it, and won’t feel rushed to get the job done before it gets hot. Replacing your heating system can also be smart in winter months, because it is easier to ensure optimal functionality and efficiency, for HVAC units, furnaces and boilers, and you’ll know right away if it is working properly, adds Piscitelli.
Ask Questions
If you are going to hire a professional for a winter project, ask your contractor about what experience the team has working in inclement weather and get references. “A good contractor is busy all year round and knows how to address any weather conditions,” says Davis. Find out what licenses and insurance they hold, advises Piscitelli. Ask about their schedule and timeline for the project being discussed, and what protocols they have for keeping the project on track. How do they plan to maintain open communication between the homeowner, general contractor and subcontractors? “I can’t stress enough how useful the winter months are for planning, design, scheduling, permits and approvals,” says Piscitelli. “This period provides an excellent opportunity to get a head start on projects and avoid the rush that often accompanies spring and summer. Additionally, many suppliers offer discounts and incentives during these months, making it an ideal time to purchase materials and supplies.”
