It’s winter, and you might be tempted to hunker down and put off home improvement projects for the warmer months. But winter is actually an ideal time to hire a general contractor for certain home repairs. Of course, there can be obstacles to home upgrades in colder temperatures or during holidays. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of hiring a general contractor in the winter.
Pros of General Contractor in Winter
Increased Contractor Availability
One benefit of hiring a contractor during winter is that contractors tend to have more availability at this time of year. The majority of people plan home improvement projects during spring or summer when the weather is warmer, leaving contractors with fewer jobs during winter. This means there may be more flexibility in scheduling and it could be easier to get an appointment with your preferred contractor.
Deals and Discounts
Again, general contractors tend to have fewer clients during the winter months. Because of this, you can often find great deals or discounts on services, from plumbing to masonry. Even if your contractor is not advertising any seasonal discounts, you may still be able negotiate on the final price, down payment, or other terms. Some contractors will throw in a bonus project, for example, in order to secure your business.
Higher Quality Results
Most contractors pride themselves on quality work, but those who are stretched may have to rush certain aspects of a job. With fewer clients, your contractor will be able to dedicate more time to your project(s), resulting in significantly better results.
Cons of General Contract Work in Winter
Weather Limitations
Depending on where you live, weather can obviously have an effect on any outdoor work that needs to be done. If you are planning major exterior renovations like replacing windows or siding, it could make sense to wait until spring or summer when the temperatures are more conducive for construction work. That being said, it is still a good idea to consult with a contractor to see if your outdoor project can be accomplished in cold temperatures.
There are plenty of interior jobs that can easily be done in cooler months; these include remodeling bathrooms or kitchens, replacing flooring, or painting walls—all of which do not require being outdoors in cold temperatures and inclement weather.
Holidays & Vacations
Keep in mind that holidays and vacations may affect how long it takes for a project to be finished. Many contractors take some extra days off around major holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Day. However, most contractors plan ahead for this (in fact, many will want to wrap up their current projects before taking any days off).
The holiday season may also impact the availability of certain materials. If manufacturers or suppliers are closed for Christmas or New Years, you may need to wait a little longer for your project to be completed.
Need a General Contractor in Denver?
Brenda Kellogg Meyer is a licensed Colorado Realtor who works with many amazing local contractors. Whatever your project, Brenda can recommend a trustworthy, high quality contractor to complete your project. Call or contact Brenda online today to get your winter upgrades started!
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