Summer Home Renovations: How to Plan and Set a Timeline for Summer Remodeling

By the time summer finally gets here in Minnesota, it always feels too short. Most homeowners assume summer is when remodeling starts. But in reality, summer is when many projects are already under construction. In this guide, we’ll explore what projects actually get built in the summer (and why) so you can plan ahead for any renovation with better outcomes and fewer delays.

If inspiration strikes in the middle of summer, you’re not out of options. In fact, it’s the perfect time to start planning ahead for many different types of remodeling projects. Reach out to JBDB to start exploring renovation ideas and create a plan for your dream space.

Understanding Summer Renovation Project Timing

Summer is peak construction season for home remodeling. This is especially true in Minnesota, where certain renovations can only happen when it’s warm enough outside.

• Excavations and foundation work are much more practical when the ground is thawed.
• Concrete projects are more predictable because summer weather allows concrete to cure properly.
• Exterior sealants, paints, and finishes perform best when applied within recommended temperature ranges.
• Longer daylight hours provide more flexibility to keep projects on track.

Because it’s the peak season, construction trades are at their busiest and permits are in high demand. At the same time, the demand for materials increases, which can affect lead times. For all of these reasons, remodel work in the summer is usually planned months in advance so projects are ready to move into the building phase as soon as conditions allow.

Best Summer Remodeling Ideas

Summer remodeling is often associated with outdoor upgrades, but it is also ideal for a variety of larger renovation projects. Understanding which projects typically happen during the summer can help you set realistic expectations, plan your timeline, and determine when to begin the design process.

Home Additions

Home additions can often be a lengthier process, so getting started on them in the summer is recommended to get the foundation in, if one is required for your addition. While a home addition can be completed in a summer, it’s important to plan ahead so the design and drawings can be ready to go as the weather starts to warm up. Getting an early start on design will ensure that your space is ready to use in the cooler months.

Window Upgrades

If you’re planning a remodel, consider increasing the size of your windows or adding additional windows as part of the design. Not only does this let in more light, but upgrading your windows can also improve your energy efficiency and give your home an updated look.

Patio & Porch Renovations

Adding a three-season porch is an excellent home improvement project that can significantly enhance your living space without the full commitment of a traditional home addition. By converting an existing deck or adding a new structure to your home, you can create a versatile area that allows you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while being shielded from the elements.

Expanding or renovating your deck or patio creates an ideal area for entertaining, relaxing, or enjoying a morning cup of coffee surrounded by nature. By adding extra square footage, you can create designated areas for dining, lounging, and even an outdoor kitchen. To complete the look, consider integrating outdoor lighting to create a warm, inviting atmosphere as the sun sets.

Pergolas

Incorporating a pergola into your patio or deck design enhances the definition and coziness of your outdoor space. Pergolas provide crucial shade during the day, while adding hanging café lights or lanterns can create a warm ambiance in the evening.

To extend the use of your outdoor area into cooler months, consider adding a heater suspended from the pergola. This makes spring and fall nights more enjoyable. Additionally, an outdoor fireplace can serve as a beautiful focal point, whether it’s wood-burning or gas, modern or rustic, offering warmth and visual appeal to your renovation.

Blended Indoor-Outdoor Spaces

Whether you want to combine a kitchen with a three-season porch or a basement den with a patio, an indoor-outdoor space increases your house’s square footage and is perfect for unwinding or entertaining. By blending the two areas, you get a seamless transition from inside to outside, making your home feel more spacious and connected to your surrounding landscape.

How you get from one area to the other is critical. Expanding windows and doors vertically and horizontally brings the two together seamlessly. JBDB’s design-build team can provide solutions to bring in natural light and maximize your views.

“Big glass doors bring in beautiful, natural light, even when they’re closed. This keeps that spacious feeling going through the colder months,” notes JBDB designer Morgan Longhenry.

If a blended indoor-outdoor space involves structural changes, keep in mind that extending your roof creates a covered outdoor living space functional in all types of weather. An expert team should be able to accomplish this easily, with minimal interference to your current home exterior.

“Elongating your roof offers shade in the summer and protection from rain and snow in the winter,” says Morgan.

Exterior Upgrades

Updates like siding, roofing, windows, doors, stonework, and walkways can help improve your home’s appearance, performance, and curb appeal while taking advantage of the warmer months. Planning these projects ahead of time also allows for proper material selection, scheduling, and coordination with other trades to keep the project moving efficiently.

Remodeling Projects to Plan for Future Upgrades

Not every remodeling project depends on summer construction conditions. Many interior renovations can be completed year-round. Summer can be a great time to start planning future upgrades, so you have time to develop the design, make selections, and prepare for construction.

Projects you can begin planning during the summer for future construction include:

• Kitchen remodels
• Bathroom renovations
• Basement finishing and lower-level updates 
• Built-ins, mudrooms, closets, and pantries
• Whole-level renovations

Planning Ahead for Your Summer Remodeling Project

The key to a successful summer remodel is starting the planning process well before construction begins. Starting early gives you the flexibility to:

• Define your goals and develop a design that fits your home and lifestyle.
• Make thoughtful decisions about materials, finishes, and project details.
• Complete any necessary approvals or permitting requirements.
• Develop a construction timeline that fits with your goals.

Whether you’re considering an outdoor living space, home addition, or another major renovation, planning ahead helps create a smoother process and sets your project up for success. Ready to get started? Reach out to James Barton Design-Build to start the conversation and determine the right timeline for your home.