One of the most common questions we hear early in the year at Archadeck is “when should I start planning my deck or patio if I want to use it this summer?”
If you want to make sure you’re on the construction schedule and your project is built and ready to use in time to enjoy the warmer weather, then late winter or early spring is usually the best time to start the process, but there is still time to get you enjoying your new space this summer. Here are three things to consider with regard to project timing.
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Design & Build Project Lead Times
Typically you can expect about 1-2 weeks of working with your Design Consultant to design your new outdoor space. Once you have finalized your design and we have reached a project agreement, a typical lead time for a deck or patio is 4-6 weeks. During this time we submit for the permit, structure your project, line up your construction crew, and order your material. Much of the time we are waiting for permit approval before we are able to finalize a start date for your project. It is important to note that as it gets later into spring and summer many villages find themselves swamped with the number of permits waiting for their approval. As a result, our lead time may extend further than six weeks. We will always contact our clients to keep them up to date with timing, but this is a possibility if you choose to wait until June or July to start your project.
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Custom Palatine deck and patio design by Archadeck of Chicagoland
How Weather Affects Your Project’s Timing
Without fail, when it’s a beautiful day, we have many inquiries for new projects. As you can imagine, our construction schedule fills up rather quickly once warm weather hits. If you want to get on the construction schedule before the spring rush, then late winter is the perfect time to start designing and working with a contractor. They will take advantage of the slower season to go in for permitting so that they can start your project as soon as the ground thaws.
Are you reading this in late spring or summer?
It’s still not too late! While it is ideal to get ahead of the spring rush for many, it certainly doesn’t mean that you can’t build your project this year. One of the benefits of planning your project during the warmer months is the ability to sit in your backyard and visualize your project (without the Chicagoland snow). Also, we are usually only building at your home on average for about a week, so you don’t lose your yard for long during the summer months.
Alternatively, late fall and early winter is also another great time to plan your project. This gives you the opportunity to lock in the current year’s pricing, helping to avoid the price increases often seen in early spring.
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Custom Mundelein IL deck by Archadeck of Chicagoland
Your Project’s Timing
On the flip side, if you don’t expect to build for a couple of years, waiting is your best option. Permits have expiration dates, building codes change, and even your design ideas might be different. If your project is a year or so out, now is the time to start researching design ideas, materials, and companies. When you’re ready to build, your design-build company will help pull your design ideas together and walk you through the building process.
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Palatine IL patio with built-in fire pit by Archadeck of Chicagoland
Whether you choose to start working with a contractor in late winter, spring, or summer, or fall, your project is sure to be gorgeous. Choose the timing and process that works best for you and you won’t be disappointed.
If you are ready to discuss your new outdoor living project, Archadeck of Chicagoland is here for you! Sign up for a free design consultation or call Archadeck of Chicagoland at (847) 250-4100 to speak with a design consultant and begin creating your new dream space.
