OLS Blog | Why Winter is the Best Time to Plan for Spring

The holidays are behind us, and while it may seem early to think about outdoor projects, winter is actually the ideal time for homeowners to start planning spring hardscaping. Whether you’re dreaming of a new patio for summer entertaining, a pool surround upgrade, or a complete backyard transformation, starting now gives you significant advantages over waiting until spring arrives.

Here’s why planning your outdoor living project in winter sets you up for success—and how to get started.

Beat the Spring Rush

When warm weather hits, contractors’ schedules fill up fast. Homeowners who plan ahead get:

First choice of contractors – The best builders book up months in advance
Better scheduling flexibility – Choose your preferred start date instead of waiting weeks or months
More attention to your project – Contractors have more time for design consultations and planning during winter months
Installation ready when the weather breaks – Your project can start as soon as conditions allow

Homeowners who book spring projects in winter typically see their installations completed 4-6 weeks earlier than those who wait until March or April to start planning.

More Time for Design and Decision-Making

One of the biggest benefits of winter planning? You can take your time getting everything right.

Explore design options without the pressure of an approaching deadline
Visit showrooms and suppliers to see materials in person
Get multiple quotes and compare contractors thoughtfully
Make material selections when product availability is at its peak
Secure permits before the spring application surge

The decisions you make now—from paver patterns to stone selections to layout details—will impact your enjoyment of the space for decades. Winter gives you the breathing room to choose wisely.

Material Availability and Selection

Natural stone, premium pavers, and specialty products can have lead times of several weeks, especially during peak season. Planning now means:

Full access to product lines – See complete collections before popular items sell out
Custom orders have time to arrive before installation
Color matching is easier when you can view multiple options
Better inventory of specialty items like coping, veneers, or unique stone cuts

If you’re considering natural stone for its timeless beauty and durability, or high-end porcelain pavers for a modern look, securing these materials early ensures you get exactly what you want.

Budget Planning and Financing

Winter planning gives you time to get your financial ducks in a row.
Accurate quotes from contractors who aren’t rushing between active job sites
Time to explore financing options if needed
Opportunity to phase your project if budget requires (hardscaping first, outdoor kitchen later, for example)
No surprise spring price increases – Materials and labor costs sometimes rise as demand increases

Many homeowners also receive holiday bonuses or tax refunds in winter and early spring, making it an ideal time to allocate funds for outdoor improvements.

Popular Spring Projects to Consider

As you dream about your outdoor space, here are some of the most requested spring projects:

Patios and Outdoor Living Spaces
Create an extension of your home with a beautiful patio using natural stone, pavers, or porcelain. Perfect for dining, entertaining, or simply enjoying your morning coffee outdoors.
Walkways and Driveways
Enhance your home’s curb appeal with elegant walkways or a stunning paver driveway. These features blend functionality with visual impact.
Fire Pits and Outdoor Kitchens
Turn your backyard into an entertainment destination with a custom fire feature or fully equipped outdoor kitchen. These high-impact additions extend your outdoor season and create memorable gathering spaces.

Pool Surrounds and Decks
Upgrade your pool area with natural stone or porcelain that stays cool underfoot and elevates the entire aesthetic. Travertine, sandstone, and porcelain are popular choices for their durability and beauty.
Retaining Walls
Solve drainage issues or create terraced garden beds with attractive retaining wall systems that add dimension to your landscape.

Getting Started: Your Winter Planning Checklist

Ready to move forward? Here’s how to start:

Define Your Vision

Browse inspiration online (Pinterest, Houzz, Instagram)
Identify must-have features vs. nice-to-haves
Consider how you’ll use the space (entertaining, relaxation, play area)
Think about maintenance preferences

Set Your Budget

Research typical costs for your desired project type
Determine your comfortable investment range
Explore financing if needed
Build in a 10-15% contingency for unexpected items

Find the Right Contractor

Ask friends and neighbors for referrals
Read online reviews and check credentials
Interview at least 2-3 contractors
Ask to see photos of completed projects and talk to references

Visit Material Suppliers

Tour showrooms to see materials in person
Ask about product durability and maintenance
Bring photos of your home to help with selection
Request samples to view at your property in different lighting

Schedule Consultations

Meet with contractors at your property for site evaluations
Discuss design ideas and get professional input
Request detailed proposals with material specifications
Clarify timelines, payment schedules, and warranty information

The Investment That Keeps Giving

Quality hardscaping isn’t just an expense—it’s an investment in your home and lifestyle. Well-designed outdoor spaces:

Increase property value – Outdoor living features can recoup 50-75% of their cost in resale value
Extend your living space – Gain usable square footage without a costly addition
Reduce maintenance – Hardscaping requires far less upkeep than lawn or garden beds
Improve functionality – Solve drainage issues, create level entertaining areas, and define spaces
Enhance quality of life – Enjoy your outdoor space more when it’s beautiful and functional