Winter Construction: What You Need To Know

As professional architects, we’re no strangers to the home building process. While many homeowners opt for a spring or summer home construction projects, winter builds are certainly not off the table. While it may seem an unlikely union, construction and winter weather can actually provide homeowners with many benefits.

 

Winter Construction Benefits

First, contractors generally have more scheduling availability in the winter. As such, you are more likely to have services performed during the time frame of your choosing. Additionally, since the season is slower, better pricing options may be available. Another pro is that civic offices that authorize permits will have less activity so the approval process may be smoother. However keep in mind of if a permit is approved but construction is postponed for the winter, a consumer must still continue to pay for the property even while a build is on hold.

 

During a winter build, new homeowners are likely to be more aware of winterized home features including top of the line insulation, radiant flooring, energy efficient windows and doors, etc. Additionally there are plenty of ways construction activities can continue during winter weather, for example the addition of external heating and protective barriers help protect against light snow. Often, the presence of snow insulates the ground from freezing. Keep in mind that heavy snow won’t necessarily halt winter construction, but crews may need to spend time digging out the construction site.

 

Winter Build Drawbacks

While it is possible to build a home in the winter that is just as durable and robust as a home built in summer, there are additional precautions that need to be taken.  Preventing frozen ground and working with fewer daylight hours are considerations that experienced contractors will be aware of and take steps to accommodate. Materials and employees may be delayed by inclement weather. Extra heat and materials could be more expensive, but that additional price tag could be mitigated by seasonal decreases in labor costs. There are pros and cons to winter construction, but consumers should not be discouraged from winter construction if the timing is suitable.

 

If you’re considering a winter construction and have questions about the process, give us a call at Stephanie Fox Architects. We can answer your questions and help you design, plan and construct your a new home this winter. Click here for a consultation.