From the beginning of the design process to turning the key in your brand-new home, you could be looking at anywhere from about ten months to as long as two years. In terms of timelines, larger, more intricate homes will fall on the longer end of that spectrum, with smaller and less complex builds obviously moving along much faster. Depending on your vision’s scope and degree of customization, you may find yourself in the design phase for six to twelve months.
Spring: Blossoming Opportunities
Spring marks the awakening of both nature and inspiration. As the last of winter’s snow recedes, Wisconsin’s landscapes come to life, allowing you to explore potential building sites. This is a great time to gather ideas for your dream home and begin the custom home design process.
When it comes to building during spring, there are pros and cons to weigh as well.
Spring’s warmer weather provides an extended period of favorable building conditions. The softening ground makes landscaping projects much easier, as well. On the other hand, spring is a popular time for home construction, which means more demand for materials and tradespeople. Lumber prices tend to rise during the spring, too. Something to consider as well: occasionally, wet and muddy conditions can pose challenges for foundation work. Or if work begins too soon, the ground may not be thawed completely.
Summer: Ideal for Progress
Summer is the go-to season for construction due to the long daylight hours and relatively pleasant weather. These conditions allow crews to work more efficiently and for longer periods of the day.
However, because it’s such an ideal time to build, labor and materials are in high demand and, as such, are often more expensive. Wait times for subcontractors and inspections can be longer, as well.
Fall: Capitalizing on Demand
Fall is an excellent time to begin the custom home design process and can be equally ideal for the building process.
On the plus side, the pleasant weather provides a great window of opportunity to commence construction after the demand for labor and materials has fallen, along with their prices. You’re past the summer rush but not yet dealing with the complications of winter weather.
That being said, you should pay attention to the unpredictable nature of autumn weather. As the season progresses, conditions will become less favorable. As a result, delays or complications can happen.
Winter: A Bold and Potentially Cost-Efficient Choice
While it might not seem like it, winter is just as busy for the custom home design process as the other seasons. To escape Wisconsin’s chilly weather, this is an ideal time to begin the design process. You’ll want to spend time considering what features and amenities you want in your dream home.
It is a common assumption that winter is not an ideal time to build, but this is far from the truth: winter building is just as busy as any other time. While advancements in technology can mitigate some of the worst challenges associated with winter construction, a drawback to consider could be additional costs associated with digging into frozen ground. One strategy to mitigate this involves pouring foundation before the ground freezes. Concrete can set even in chilly conditions, but it’s important to protect it from freezing. Temporary enclosures can be used to keep the temperature above freezing. In addition, contracted professionals can focus on indoor tasks when the weather outside is too severe; plumbing, electrical work, and interior finishing can proceed unaffected by the cold.
Finally, a well-planned schedule and regular communication with construction teams can ensure that everyone is ready to capitalize on periods of milder weather. Winter construction requires additional safety measures, such as keeping the site clear of ice and snow and ensuring workers are dressed for the cold temperatures. With these strategies in mind, building a home in winter can be a viable option.
Choosing Your Ideal Time to Begin the Custom Home Design and Build Process
Ultimately, the best time to start the custom design process depends on your unique circumstances and priorities. Each season offers its advantages and disadvantages. Considering these factors, you can make an informed decision aligning with your vision for your dream home.
As you embark on your custom home design journey, remember that JFK Design Build is your dedicated partner in bringing that dream to life. From initial concepts to the finishing touches, you can expect expertise, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to your project every step of the way. The team at JFK Design Build, along with 25 years of industry experience, can help you determine the best time for your unique home.
