While a bathroom renovation can technically take place at any time of the year, planning to renovate at specific times can help facilitate the process. Any type of home improvement project can take a great deal of time to complete – from hiring the contractors to choosing and ordering the products, it can be upward of six months before a renovation project has been completed. Homeowners who time their projects just right can take advantage of slow times in the design industry while capitalizing on deals.
The Best Time to Purchase Products
The best time of the year to purchase products, such as plumbing hardware or tile, is usually in the winter, after the holidays. The fall is a busy time for the design industry, since many homeowners are trying to complete their renovation projects before the holiday season. By holding off on purchasing products until December through March, you'll enjoy emptier showrooms, more attention from design consultants, and you may even be able to get products at lower prices through negotiation.
In an effort to move products quickly, many showrooms hold winter sales or specials and some may even offer flexible pricing. During this time, showrooms tend to experience a decline in foot traffic, making it easier for homeowners to take their time and get extra assistance from sales people. Even if you don't plan on starting the bathroom renovation project until the early summer, ordering products in the winter can save valuable time and money. In some instances, specific products can take over a month to arrive, so by planning ahead you'll also have a greater selection of products to choose from.
The Best Time to Hire a Contractor
Obviously, planning a project during contractors' busiest times is not a good idea. If your contractor is juggling a few other jobs in addition to yours, they're more likely to make a mistake. Additionally, when every contractor within a ten mile radius is putting in orders for toilets or sinks, there's a greater chance orders will be postponed or mixed up, causing all parties involved to experience aggravation and delays.
Ask any contractor their schedule, and usually they'll be booked from August to November. Fall is the busiest time of the year for home renovations of any type, due to the upcoming holiday season. To ensure the best contractor is able to take on your project, consider waiting until the spring to begin renovating. Slow times for contractors could also mean a reduction in pricing. If you're planning on renovating during the late summer or fall, be sure to book the contractor well in advance. Waiting too long can mean being forced to settle for a contractor, or paying more for the services offered.
The Benefits of Spring/Early Summer
The benefits of remodeling in the spring or early summer are too great to ignore. In addition to contractors being available and products being easily purchased, the days are longer and the weather in most areas of the United States is cooperative. If you're planning for a spring or early summer remodel, remember it's not unusual to book a job as early as six months in advance. That way, you’ll avoid having to scramble to get everything done before the start date. Happy remodeling!