The warm season is behind us and fall is well underway. Contrary to what you might expect, fall is actually a great time to start renovations. You skip the overwhelming summer heat and still have a few months before the snow arrives to move projects forward. Here's why autumn is worth considering for your next renovation.
What to renovate before winter
Renovations often come down to improving how a home functions, and work done in the fall tends to pay off directly in a more comfortable winter. Adding an extension before winter, for example, gives your family more space right when you're spending the most time indoors. Since it's a significant build, it's worth having the plans finalized ahead of time.
Painting
Contrary to popular belief, summer isn't actually the best season for exterior painting or staining. When it's too hot, coatings dry too fast and brush marks become visible, and blistering can form on the surface, affecting how well the product adheres. Keep an eye on the forecast for your painting days and aim for a cool, dry day with low to moderate humidity.
Heating, insulation, and windows
Fall is also a smart time to upgrade your heating system or tackle insulation work — you'll be glad you did once the freezing weather sets in. Investing now for a warmer home this winter also means real savings on heating costs. And if your windows are old and clearly not doing their job, don't wait to replace them; efficient windows pay for themselves fairly quickly through lower heating bills.
Fall is one of the last real windows to improve your home's comfort before winter, since some renovations become difficult or impossible once the cold sets in. It's also a period when most contractors see a slowdown in work, so you can take advantage of their greater availability. Don't hesitate to talk through your renovation ideas with a qualified contractor — they can walk you through the best methods and timing, and put your mind at ease. Let this fall's shifting landscape be the nudge to get your renovation projects started.