When 

Is 

the 

Best 

Time 

to 

Start 

a 

Major 

Renovation? 

Seasonal Planning Tips for Canadian Homeowners

Planning a major renovation? Timing can make all the difference. From weather conditions to permit wait times and trade availability, every season offers its own advantages—and its own challenges.

Whether you're building an addition, remodelling a kitchen, or taking on a full home transformation, here’s a season-by-season breakdown to help you choose the right time to get started.

Spring – The Planning Powerhouse

Best For: Design consultations, permit applications, and scheduling trades

Spring is one of the most popular times for homeowners to start thinking seriously about renovations. It’s when the weather starts to improve, contractors return to full capacity, and permits begin moving through the pipeline again after slower winter months.

Pros:

• Ideal weather for planning and design walkthroughs
• More daylight for site assessments
• Start early, finish before year-end

Considerations:

• Early spring permit backlogs can cause delays
• High demand can affect pricing and trade availability

Square One Tip: Use spring to lock in your scope, finalise plans, and secure permits so you're ready to break ground by summer.

Summer – Peak Construction Season

Best For: Additions, full-home renovations, exterior upgrades

Summer is prime time for major construction work. Warm, dry conditions make it easier to build efficiently—and your family may be more open to short-term disruptions if vacations or outdoor time help offset the stress.

Pros:

• Fewer weather-related delays
• Perfect for roofing, framing, and outdoor work
• Faster drying times for materials

Considerations:

• Trades are in highest demand—book well in advance
• Some municipalities slow down in August

Square One Tip: If you're doing an extensive remodel, consider temporarily relocating to reduce the strain of living in a construction zone.

Fall – The Strategic Starter

Best For: Interior remodels, pre-winter upgrades

Early fall is often overlooked, but it’s a great time to begin indoor renovations or get ahead of winter-proofing. Permit offices are less backlogged, and contractors may have more flexibility as the summer rush winds down.

Pros:

• Cooler weather is easier on crews and materials
• Timely for insulation, roofing, or window upgrades
• Avoid winter’s energy inefficiency

Considerations:

• Exterior work needs to wrap up before the first frost
• Daylight hours are shorter

Square One Tip: Use fall to finish your renovation before the holidays—or get a head start on early winter indoor projects.

Winter – Quiet but Productive

Best For: Indoor remodels, planning next year’s build

Winter may not seem like the ideal time to renovate, but for the right projects, it can offer a strategic advantage. Contractor schedules tend to be more flexible, and early planning means you're first in line come spring.

Pros:

• Better trade availability and pricing in some cases
• Great for basement suites, kitchens, or bathrooms
• Perfect time to plan your spring build

Considerations:

• Outdoor work is limited by weather
• Holiday season may slow decision-making or supply chains

Square One Tip: Start designing and securing permits in winter so you’re ready to go when warmer weather hits.

Ready to Renovate? Start with the Right Season

No matter the season, a successful renovation starts with good timing, clear communication, and trusted expertise. At Square One Construction, we work closely with homeowners to align goals with realistic timelines—so every phase runs smoothly.

📧 Email: info@squareoneconstruction.ca

📞 Phone: (778) 400-7948

🔗 Explore more planning tips on our blog

Useful Reads:

• 🔨 7 Great Summer Renovation Ideas
• 🌦️ Year-Round Outdoor Living: Key Upgrades for a Functional and Weatherproof Space
• 🏡 Get Your House in Order! 12 Steps to Take Now to Make the Rest of This Year Easy

Let’s build smart—one season at a time.