What’s the Best Time of Year to Build a Deck?

Have you ever wondered when the best time to build a deck might be?

Timing is everything! Most folks might say spring is ideal for outdoor projects. But those chilly winter months everyone dreads could also be your ally in crafting that dream deck.

While no two decks (or homes) are exactly alike, building a new deck can help homeowners save money, reduce stress, and ensure quality workmanship, depending on what time of year you build it.

Check out Decks & Docks’ expert advice to guide your decision-making and building process for your new outdoor living space.

Decoding the Best Time for New Deck Construction

Many folks think winter and freezing temperatures are a no-go for construction. Too cold, right? However, winter and cold temperatures are your secret weapon.

Sure, there are challenges like shorter days and potential snowfall. But here’s the kicker: most contractors often have more availability during these months. Plus, construction prices can drop in the off-season. Who doesn’t love saving some cash?

Picking the right time can also depend on where you live. Spring and summer months offer great weather but come with their own issues, such as everyone else having the same idea–leading to contractor backlogs. And then there’s the fall: perfect temps and low humidity help sealants dry better, and end-of-season discounts are easy on your wallet.

Start Early: Building Your Deck in Off-Season and Winter Months

It’s not always true that construction projects freeze over when the temperature drops due to modern technology and materials. In fact, builders often prefer cooler months for outdoor projects. Why? Because they’re not battling against sweltering heat or sudden rainstorms that can delay work.

Off-Peak Benefits

Like a savvy shopper who knows when to buy strawberries or score that discounted TV after Christmas sales, there’s also an art form behind choosing when to build that dreamy outdoor space without breaking the bank. Start planning when others are busy googling pumpkin carving tips to take advantage of pre-season incentives.

Faster Permit Approvals

Since fewer people apply for permits during the slower season and cold months, your paperwork could breeze through approvals quicker than during peak season.

Easier Contractor Scheduling

Come wintertime, many contractors have lighter schedules. This means your project might get more attention and be completed faster.

Better Labor Availability

In peak seasons like late spring and summer, when most homeowners want a deck for those backyard barbecues, most contractors are busier than bees. High demand means they can charge more because, well, they’re in high demand.

But here’s a little secret: during off-peak times (think fall or even winter), these same pros might lower their rates to keep the work coming in.

Preservation of Landscaping

The ground firms up during the winter months, and plants, shrubs, and grass are dormant. This minimizes the impact of foot traffic, tools, and any construction equipment on your lawn and garden.

Challenges to Watch Out for with Winter Construction of Your Deck

For starters, daylight hours are shorter, so planning becomes crucial to maximize productivity each day. Mother Nature can also throw curveballs like extreme weather, which might require temporary pauses on work or special measures to protect materials onsite for your new deck.

The Composite Deck: The Ideal Material for Outdoor Activities

If we’re talking decks, composite decking deserves a shoutout for being an outstanding material for deck construction. It isn’t affected by weather quite as much as a wood deck might be, and its durability and low maintenance mean less work for you down the line.

What is Composite Decking?

At its core, composite decking is like the superhero of outdoor flooring. It is a low-maintenance, durable alternative to traditional wood decks that saves you time and money in the long run. It’s an investment upfront but pays off with decades of hassle-free outdoor enjoyment.

Composite decking offers the appearance of natural wood with the durability of synthetic materials, creating a low-maintenance alternative without the tendency to warp or crack under varying weather conditions.

The Pros:

• High Durability: Say goodbye to warping, splintering, or fading.
• Low Maintenance: A simple wash-down keeps it looking fresh.
• Longer Lifespan: Surpasses the life of traditional wood decks – meaning decades of longevity for you to enjoy your deck.

The Cons:

• Higher Cost: It’s an investment upfront. However, this pays off in the end.
• Cold Flooring: While not quite as cozy underfoot on chilly mornings compared to natural wood, you still have options.

While the initial investment for composite decking might be more than timber, its long-term savings on maintenance can make it kinder on your wallet in the grand scheme. It’s like paying a bit extra now so that in the future, you get to relax rather than tackle weekend repairs.

And while nothing beats bare feet on warm wooden planks during summer evenings, you’ve got options. Outdoor rugs or strategically placed furniture can introduce warmth and texture, transforming your deck or patio into an inviting retreat.

Planning to Build Your New Deck Project

Before you start dreaming about that first cookout or chill evening under the stars, plan your timeline carefully.

Dream Big, Plan Bigger

Maybe you’ve been surfing Pinterest like mad or googling fancy home improvement projects. That’s great. Use those inspirations to sketch out what you want, but remember—a plan isn’t just a drawing.

This entails considering the scale of your new deck project, choosing materials, and selecting a palette of hues for deck decor if you want sophistication.

Approval and Permits

No one likes paperwork, but think of this as the bridge between dreamland and reality. Depending on where you live, getting building permits done can be simple or complex. Touch base with local authorities early on because nothing throws cold water on a project faster than code violations:

1. Contact local building authorities for permit requirements.
2. Gather necessary documents (think property plans).
3. Should the situation call for it, consider consulting the experts at Decks & Docks–that’s what we are here for!

The Contractor Coordination Dance

This step is like finding the perfect dance partner. You need someone who understands your vision, respects your budget, and communicates clearly throughout the construction process.

Start by asking friends for recommendations, checking online reviews, and interviewing potential contractors. The team at Decks & Docks can also make some recommendations for you, so feel free to give your local store a call.

Once you find ‘the one,’ discuss timelines realistically. Make sure they align with yours while considering their workload, too:

• Ask about previous projects similar in scope.
• Inquire thoroughly in interviews, delving into specifics.
• Check references diligently.

Call Decks & Docks to Build Your New Deck Project Today

The best time to build a deck? From considering contractor availability in those unexpected months to snagging deals on materials when demand dips low—building your decking construction project outside of traditional seasons can save you money and minimize delays.

Give our experts at Decks & Docks a call today, and get started on your outdoor oasis tomorrow!