We all cherish those lazy summer days spent with friends and family on the deck, enjoying a BBQ well into the cool evenings. While many consider deck maintenance and repairs during spring and summer due to increased usage, it's important to realize that new construction or additions and securing permits can take longer than anticipated.
However, don't overlook the advantages of building, expanding, or repairing your deck during the winter. It might sound unusual, but it's surprisingly feasible, and we're here to address your concerns.
Here are 6 Reasons to Consider Building or Repairing Your Deck in the Winter:
We get it, you still have some questions—and we have answers!
Seasonal fluctuations mean that building a deck is typically more budget-friendly in the winter. Despite challenging weather conditions, we won't charge you extra due to inclement weather. You can mitigate costs by determining if your deck needs full or partial replacement.
We do understand that staying within your budget is a concern, but you can mitigate costs by deciding if your deck needs full or partial replacement. If your goal is to repair or repurpose an existing deck, it’s possible that we may even be able to use your existing footings, eliminating the need to break new ground. Before beginning your project, we’ll do a 4-point deck inspection to determine if you should repair or replace your deck.
Our schedules aren’t as jam-packed, meaning that we are more available to you! We can quite easily work around your schedule as well. More availability and flexibility means we can commit more resources to your project.
Depending on the size of your project, permits may be required by the city. But no need to fret; permits are much easier to secure in the wintertime. This is because there are generally fewer applications for permits during this time since most construction slows down once the bitter cold starts setting in.
Needing a permit depends on a few different factors. If your project is a new build and sits 30 inches above ground, or more, you will need a permit. Additionally, decks that utilize three or more steps will also call for a permit to be issued.
Normally, if your project is a repair on an existing deck, a permit is not needed. We like to get a good look at your situation, however, so an on-site quote is needed in most cases.
You can visit the City of Bend website for more information on obtaining a permit for your project.
We can build, replace, or repair parts of your deck with a variety of materials. Trex Composite Decks are extremely cost efficient and look great. Decks made with these alternatives are long lasting and are typically made of eco-friendly, recycled materials. They are also super easy to clean and maintain.
If you're looking to go the more traditional route, we can fabricate your deck from a variety of natural wood options. Cedar, red cedar, redwood, mahogany, ipe, teak, and fir are all viable options. However, these decks typically do require a bit more maintenance, including finishing. We offer a variety of staining options. Although we cannot stain your natural wood deck in the wintertime, it's actually best to let your deck season throughout the winter season anyway. We call this allowing the wood to “weather.” Mill glaze is a film that can develop on lumber during production. Letting your deck weather during the winter can help to break down this film and better prepare your deck to accept stain.
You probably aren’t using your deck much in the winter, making this an ideal time to work our carpentry magic. Most of us here in Central Oregon are spending the snow season hitting Mount Bachelor, or the sweet snowshoe trail at Virginia Meissner, amongst others. By getting a head start on your deck repair or replacement, you’ll have more time to enjoy your space in the warm weather.
Depending on your location in Central Oregon, you may or may not experience snowfall. Either way, we can probably still complete your project without much issue. Winter makes for drier weather conditions. This is great for deck building since minimal heat and less exposure to mold and mildew is key. If you do experience snowfall in your neck of the woods, we can usually clear these areas without a problem.
Building or repairing a deck in the wintertime can be a great way to mitigate issues with cost, production, and contractor availability. We’d love to help you get an early start on your deck so you can enjoy it come spring or summer. Need another reason to get started? Check out these 7 Reasons to Invest in Deck Building.
