Why wait 'till spring? Fall is the perfect time to build a deck.
There's a common misconception that decks should only be built in the spring or summer, but autumn is actually an ideal time to begin building your deck. Here's why.
There's a common misconception that decks should only be built in the spring or summer, but autumn is actually an ideal time to begin building your deck.
One of the primary concerns our customers express against fall construction is the effect the weather will have on a new deck and the materials used on the project. We always assure them that the materials are manufactured for this very purpose. Treated lumber, along with composite materials, are conditioned and fabricated to withstand extreme hot and cold temperatures, moisture and humidity, and rainy and dry seasons.
The transition from summer into autumn is actually an ideal time to begin building your deck.
1. Shorter wait time
Spring tends to be the busiest season for deck construction. Homeowners are excited to finally end their hibernation indoors and start living outside again. The cold weather yields to the warmer, and everyone starts thinking the same thing - "Let’s move our lives outdoors again!" Our phones at the office start ringing off the hook, which is a wonderful problem to have, but this often results in longer wait times for our customers. The lead time tends to be longer as the schedule fills up quickly.
In the fall, most homeowners are mentally shifting gears to start spending time indoors once again. One advantage to building your deck in the fall is that you will have your project completed a lot sooner than in the spring or summer. There is a shorter wait time for each project. Plus, once winter passes, your deck will be ready to be used as soon as the first warm spring day arrives. Instead of beginning the project at this point, it'll already be completed and you'll be able to focus on landscaping and furnishing your new outdoor area.
2. Ground conditions
Another advantage to fall deck construction is that the ground and conditions are more favorable to yards and landscaping. When dealing with the elements, the effects of the entire construction process are often unpredictable as to how much disruption will occur to existing landscaping and turf. Although we always try to be as minimally invasive as possible throughout our construction process, heavier rains lead to muddier soil and turf. Fall weather is typically much drier, and plants and grass tend to be more resilient to a bit of disruption in the fall.
3. Late season specials
Whether you're building your own deck or hiring a contractor, you can save some money by building in the fall. Contractors are usually more willing to negotiate on pricing, and it's not uncommon to find sales on lumber and building materials at this time.
4. Fall weather
Another reason fall is a great time to build is simply because the weather is gorgeous. The cooler, crisp weather is the perfect time to gather around a fire pit on a deck with friends. The comfortable range of temperatures from fifty to seventy-five allows for ample outdoor time. In comparison to the heat of summer and the wetness and rain associated with spring, fall is perfect for outdoor enjoyment. Many of our customers enjoy this time of year to host their gatherings and barbecues.
There are so many reasons why fall is a favorite season for deck construction. From pricing, to weather conditions, to building process, to having your outdoor area ready to go in the spring ... the possibilities are endless.
5. Relaxed pace
Let’s face it you don’t have to make a decision tomorrow in order to get on a schedule and have your deck built by Memorial Day. Instead use the fall to plan your deck, select the colors, tweak the design as much as you like and have fun with it. Once you get to a point we you have made your selections you can start building in the fall or wait until the next spring but you will be ready to go fall, winter or spring.
Thinking about building a new deck or replacing an old one? We’re here to help! Contact us or get a free estimate today!
I founded Woodland Deck in 2000 to create decks and outdoor spaces to be enjoyed for generations. Here in beautiful Northeast Ohio, we’re lucky to experience four dramatically different seasons throughout the year, and I want you to be able to enjoy each one of them from the comfort of your own backyard. As a deck-building company, we are always looking for ways to better our products, services, and ourselves. We are passionate about life outside and believe that enjoying God’s creation is a rich gift to us.
Learn about decking materials, stair and railing options, layout considerations, and more!
We are looking to understand your dream and vision for the outdoors, but we don’t stop there. What are your likes and dislikes? How and when you are looking to use the space?
We start with a phone or email consultation to gather preliminary info that will help us in providing effective deck construction solutions. We are interested in learning as much as possible about the specifics of the project. Not sure what the scope is? We can help!
