We have often talked about how important the early stages of the home-building process are and part of that is considering the seasonal impact on the building process. When the home construction starts will play a significant role in how long the home takes to get finished as well as impacting construction costs. Let’s take a quick look at how the different seasons will impact exactly when you get your keys handed to you to enjoy your custom-built home.
Spring
For many, this is the ideal time to start, especially in states with big seasonal weather changes. The revitalized ground conditions are suitable for laying foundations, and the weather itself is perfect for construction workers, offering you the most time for active construction before winter hits.
The downside is the amount of rain that can impact construction, possibly shutting it down before the framing is done and the outside walls are closed. There is also the possibility that supplies could be damaged if not stored properly.
Summer
The longer days make for the best output possible and there is much less of a chance of weather impacting the build.
On the downside, the extreme heat can just sap the energy out of the construction crew. You also run the risk of damaged materials, such as concrete drying too quickly and wood warping. Keep in mind, labor costs could also be higher because every crew around will be working full force during this time of the year.
Fall
Ideally, you would be finishing up construction at this point, not starting. Cooler temperatures are ideal for roofing shingles and working inside the home will not tax the crew as much as working at the height of the summer.
The biggest challenge you may see here is the fight against the clock, as days get shorter. During this time of the year, you are also going to be facing a challenge for construction workers specializing in indoor work, so it could again lead to some additional labor costs to get the home finished before the winter.
Winter
You will probably find cheaper labor and materials at this time of the year, as there is far less work in the construction industry during the winter months. If you are willing to start in the winter, you will probably get a decent price break just so the contractor can keep his guys working through the off-season.
The downside is, of course, the weather. Colder temperatures will impact the exact type of work the crew can get done. For instance, concrete has specific temperatures to ensure it sets properly. Storms can also create challenges, with snow and ice buildup bringing everything to a complete halt. This can also impact your materials being ruined if they are left out in the elements and not protected.
Now, every area of the country is impacted differently by the seasons, so you may want to consult with a residential construction project manager or construction consultant to plan the best possible time to start your custom-built home. Better Build Now can help with our residential construction services. To learn more about these services, click here, or give us a call at 888-402-4180.