Winter may seem like the wrong season for home improvements, but you can make it work for you. It is also a good way to keep yourself busy during the cold months. Yes, you are limited on the type of projects you can undertake, but it’s the perfect time for outdoor renovations that add to the comfort and functionality of your home.
Why Winter Renovations Are a Good Idea
Contractor Availability
Home improvement industry slows down during winters and contractors have open availability. Delays are less likely to happen too.
Off-Season Discounts
Suppliers and contractors offer products and services at discounted prices to keep work active and get rid of last season’s stock.
Energy Efficiency Improvements
During colder months, it’s easier to find out where your home’s losing more energy and how you prevent that. It could be a big project like upgrading windows or simply filling out insulation in the walls.
Minimal Disruption
You don’t need to leave your house for the renovation team to complete work and keep going on with your day to day schedule.
7 Home Renovations To Plan During Winters
Basements
Since basements have electricity, your contractor can set up a few heaters and get started with drywall, flooring, and insulation. A finished basement creates more space like an office, gym, and play area for a growing family or can be turned into an in-law suite too. Finishing your basement during winter is one of the smartest renovation investments. You’ll enjoy the added living space for a few years, and when you sell, you could recoup up to 80% of the cost.
Kitchen Remodel
Going away for a couple weeks to see family? Get your kitchen’s tiles changed and add a fresh paint on the wall, just in time for the holidays! Even upgrading countertops, which takes 2-3 weeks, works well during winters.
Bathroom Renovation
You want your bathrooms to work properly, especially if you have family staying over during holidays. Outdated fixtures, loose tiles, or poor ventilation can lead to accidents or issues. Bathroom renovations take just a couple weeks and you’ll have a bathroom that is not only stylish but also more energy-efficient.
Attic Insulation
Attic insulation gets ignored quite often but if it’s not properly insulated, your house won’t stay warm enough and add to heating bills too. Once work is done, you’ll notice the difference right away. This is a must-do fix if you’re planning to sell your property during the colder months.
Interior Painting
Winter’s low humidity levels allow paint to dry faster and evenly. Just focus on one room at a time because you can’t open the windows to let the air out. If you’re doing it all by yourself, it’ll take roughly a month for all rooms.
Flooring Upgrades
Whether you’re considering hardwood, vinyl, or tile, installing new floors indoors won’t be affected by the weather. You can also save on materials with off-season deals.
How to Prep Your Home Before Starting Winter Renovations
Cold temperatures, limited daylight, and indoor work zones need a bit more planning. Follow this list to get your home ready:
- Clear out the renovation area completely so contractors don’t waste time moving furniture.
- Cover nearby furniture and floors with plastic sheets to protect from dust, paint, or debris.
- Check your heating system to make sure it can handle extra usage during construction.
- Seal off the work zone using temporary plastic walls or zip walls to stop heat loss.
- Schedule noisy work during hours that won’t disturb your routine or neighbours.
- Confirm your contractor has proper winter gear and a plan for snow or ice removal if needed.
- Store renovation materials indoors to prevent warping or moisture damage.
- Open windows briefly during painting or sanding to keep air fresh.
Got a winter renovation project for Team YKC? Contact our team for a free consultation.
