These are the most popular times of year for remodeling. Warmer weather makes it easier for contractors to work, families often have more flexibility, and many homeowners want their projects completed before hosting summer barbecues or holiday gatherings.

However, with popularity comes challenges:

• High demand: Contractors’ schedules fill up fast. If you wait until spring to call, you may already be behind.
• Material delays: Everything from cabinets to tile can take longer to arrive due to nationwide demand spikes.
• Higher costs: In peak season, you’re less likely to see discounts on labor or materials.

That said, if you plan months in advance and secure your contractor early, spring and summer can be great options—especially for outdoor projects like patios, landscaping, or ADU additions that require good weather.

If you can be flexible, fall and winter often offer the smoothest remodeling experiences. While some homeowners assume contractors slow down during these months, the reality is that interior remodels (like kitchens and bathrooms) are perfectly suited for cooler seasons.

Benefits include:

• More availability: Contractors tend to have more open schedules.
• Quicker timelines: With fewer projects in the pipeline, your remodel may move faster.
• Potential cost savings: Some suppliers and subcontractors offer off-season discounts.

The main drawback is timing around holidays. If you want your kitchen done before Thanksgiving, for example, you’ll need to start much earlier—often in summer. But if you don’t mind some overlap with the holiday season, fall and winter can be the sweet spot.

Not every remodel has the same needs. Here’s how to think about timing based on the type of project you’re planning:

• Kitchen Remodels: Kitchens are the heart of the home, and being without one is tough. Many homeowners choose to start in spring or early fall so they have a fully functional space for the holidays. Planning six months ahead is ideal.
• Bathroom Remodel: Bathrooms are less disruptive, especially if you have more than one in the house. These projects are flexible and can fit into almost any season. Winter is often a great time since it won’t interfere with outdoor living.
• ADUs and Major Additions: Larger projects that involve new foundations, framing, or significant plumbing and electrical work should ideally start in spring. This gives plenty of time to work through permitting, inspections, and construction so you can move in by the end of the year.
• Exterior Work: Roofing, siding, and landscaping are best scheduled for dry months—late spring through early fall in Southern California.

One of the most overlooked parts of remodel timing is permitting. In California, depending on your city and the scope of work, permits can take weeks—or even months—to process. If your project requires plan review (such as an ADU or major structural change), you’ll want to submit as early as possible.

At Coleman Build, we guide clients through this step, coordinating directly with building departments so nothing falls through the cracks. Still, it’s important to budget time for revisions and inspections, which can shift your overall schedule.

Beyond seasons and permits, think about your personal calendar. Do you host family during the holidays? Do you travel for work or vacation during summer? Timing your remodel around your life helps minimize stress.

Some homeowners even schedule projects while they’re away. For example, starting a bathroom remodel right before a two-week trip means you return to a nearly finished space without living through the dust and noise.

So, when is the “best” time to remodel? The answer depends on your priorities:

• For availability and cost savings: Fall and winter are excellent.
• For outdoor projects or completion before holidays: Spring or early summer, with early planning, is ideal.
• For large, complex remodels: Start as early in the year as possible to allow for permitting and inspections.

No matter the season, the key is planning ahead. The earlier you contact your contractor, the more control you’ll have over your timeline.

At Coleman Build, we know timing is everything. Our team works with you to map out a realistic schedule, secure permits, and keep your project on track from start to finish. Whether you’re upgrading a kitchen, modernizing a bathroom, or building an ADU, we’ll help you choose the best time to start—so you’ll be enjoying your new space when it matters most.

👉 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning your remodel with confidence.