Summer can’t come soon enough!
If you’re like us, being housebound during most of the winter can seriously bum you out. What do we do to feel better about home? Plan remodeling projects! If you have ever done a construction project that requires permits to start, you know that the process can take a long time (anywhere from 6 weeks to 8 months). And unfortunately, they are entirely necessary before the groundbreaking of any project can begin.
With planning time necessary on the homeowner’s part, we say there’s no time like the present to plan your summer remodel!
Don’t decide in January to put an addition on your home, and expect a contractor to dig the foundation in February. Get started today!
Starting your project ahead of time has many benefits. Despite the thought of working outside in the cold winter, this is an excellent time to start an addition. Frozen ground and dry air are better for digging foundations and pouring concrete footers than muddy ground and humidity.
On top of that, permitting groups won’t be swamped with applications in the year’s first quarter, which may expedite the process. Likewise, the winter months are less busy for builders because many homeowners wait for spring and tax refunds to start their home projects. Contractors are more accessible in the off-season, giving them extra time for design modifications. We always recommend tacking on a few extra weeks (at least) for your remodel to temper your expectations, especially given the supply chain issues the world is having now.
Getting a jump on your building schedule can be the difference between your project taking weeks or even months to complete. Plus, extra lead time ensures you can enjoy your new space when summer rolls around rather than still being under construction.
Summer Projects to Start Early
1. Building Additions
The most optimal time of year to start additions is January through early March. Colorado is one of the sunniest states in the US, with an estimated 300 days of sunshine annually! A sunroom is a perfect addition to any Colorado home. Frozen ground and dry air can make it easier for contractors to pour concrete for your new space.
Considering installing a new sunroom? Not only are they a cost-effective space for your family to grow, but they also increase your property’s ROI (Return on Investment) and have health benefits! Take a look at our past blogs on additions for inspiration:
- Summer Sunroom Remodels
- Ways To Use a Room Addition
- 4 Sunroom Options – 4 Ways To Maximize Natural Light!
2. New Outdoor Spaces
Coloradans can achieve quality outdoor living in many ways, from completely overhauling their backyard or adding a pergola. Nothing beats outdoor space when it comes to remodels to enjoy by summer!
If you’re considering upgrading your deck, patio, outdoor kitchen, etc., consult a designer and contractor in the winter during the off-season, so by the time the ground is easier to build on, you can start!
Decks require hand-digging, and the ground is usually softer in the spring, making March the perfect time frame to plan for.
Breaking ground in the spring also means cooler temperatures for workers. It’s a win-win.
Check out our blog, Outdoor Living At Its Finest, for ideas and inspiration.
3. Power Wash & Stain Your Deck
Preventative maintenance is vital to elevating your deck and keeping it like new. A good powerwash at the start of spring will also reveal damage or areas that need to be restained or resealed.
You’ll want to immediately address flaking or peeling on your deck to prevent further deterioration. Check whether you have loose boards to replace. Before staining, your deck surface needs to be appropriately prepared with a fresh coat of sealer; pick a dry weekend to work and apply two coats if possible.
If your deck needs professional attention, contacting contractors earlier in the year will ensure they have time to prepare your outdoor space for the beautiful Colorado summer.
4. Install New Windows
Installing new windows is a popular job for summer, meaning you might have an easier time booking a contractor before peak season. Plan now and book your new installations for springtime. The mild spring temperatures will be more bearable than installing windows on a hot day (or the dead of winter!)
5. Replace or Clean Your Gutters
The best times of year to clean your gutters are when the leaves have fallen at the end of autumn and early spring before the rainy season starts.
Gutter maintenance keeps leaves, dirt, and debris from building up and clogging, protecting your home from overflow damage. If the build-up is minimal, you can clean your gutters yourself with gloves, a ladder, and moral support. If yours require more than DIY work, reach out to contractors in your area to plan for a spring gutter cleaning or replacement. The earlier you set your appointment, the less you’ll have to worry about.
At Christie’s Design/Build Remodeling, we want your remodel to turn out precisely the way you envision it, and as any good contractor knows, this takes precious time. Since none of these steps can be rushed or skipped, it is imperative to plan ahead.
Not only will forward-thinking ensure your remodel is a success, but it’ll free you up to plan your year, family vacations, summer BBQs, and beyond. Take a look at our blog, 5 Things To Know Before Starting A Home Remodel, for more tips to consider ahead of your next project.
Ready to jumpstart your summer remodel? Our team is committed to giving you a realistic timeline and offering a price lock-in for 30 days once you have signed. Contact Christie’s Design Build Remodeling at 303-833-4715 or complete our contact form online to schedule a free consultation.
Can’t wait for warmer weather? Look at these 7 Indoor Renovations Cold Weather Can’t Stop.
