What is the Best Time of Year to Build a Deck?

A new deck is one of the best investments you can make in your home. It adds beauty, expands your outdoor living space, and creates the perfect setting for relaxing evenings, family barbecues, or entertaining friends. But once you decide to move forward, another question comes up: When is the best time of year to build a deck?
The truth is, the “best” time depends on your goals—whether you’re focused on cost savings, maximizing your deck’s use during the summer, or working around contractor availability. Each season offers unique advantages and challenges. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of building a deck in spring, summer, fall, and winter so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your priorities.

Building a Deck in Spring

Spring is often the season when homeowners start thinking about outdoor projects. As the weather warms up, many people want their decks ready in time for summer gatherings.
Advantages of Spring Deck Building

• Maximize Summer Enjoyment: Starting your project in early spring means your deck will be finished and ready for the prime outdoor season. You’ll have a full summer of enjoyment.
• Mild Weather: Moderate spring temperatures are ideal for outdoor construction. It’s not too hot for workers, and the ground is usually thawed enough for digging footings.
• Fresh Landscaping: If you’re planning to refresh your yard as well, completing your deck in spring allows you to incorporate the deck seamlessly into your landscaping plans.

Disadvantages of Spring Deck Building

• Busy Contractor Schedules: Because spring is one of the busiest seasons for deck building, contractors book up quickly. You may have to wait weeks—or even months—for availability if you don’t schedule in advance.
  
  
  
• Unpredictable Weather: Spring often brings showers, which can cause delays in construction and extend the timeline for project completion.
  
  
  
• Higher Costs: With higher demand, prices for labor and materials may be less flexible than in the off-season.

Verdict: Spring is the right choice if your main priority is having a deck to enjoy immediately during the summer months. But be prepared to plan early and potentially pay higher costs.

Building a Deck in Summer

Summer seems like the obvious time for deck construction, but it comes with both benefits and challenges.
Advantages of Summer Deck Building

• Peak Building Season: Warm, dry conditions are ideal for construction. Summer offers long daylight hours, which can help projects move faster.
  
  
  
• Immediate Use: Like spring, a summer build allows you to enjoy your deck as soon as it’s finished—perfect for barbecues, parties, and family relaxation.
  
  
  
• Wide Range of Material Options: Because summer is the high point of the building season, suppliers are usually well-stocked with decking materials.

Disadvantages of Summer Deck Building

• High Demand = Higher Costs: Summer is the most popular time for deck construction, which means contractors are busiest and less flexible with pricing.
  
  
  
• Possible Weather Delays: While summer is generally dry, sudden thunderstorms or extreme heat can disrupt progress.
  
  
  
• Competition for Contractors: You may face long wait times for available builders if you don’t book months in advance.
  
  
  

Verdict: Summer is convenient if you want to enjoy your deck right away, but it’s the busiest—and often most expensive—season.

Building a Deck in Fall

Fall is an often-overlooked season for deck construction, but it may actually be one of the best times to build.
Advantages of Fall Deck Building

• Perfect Weather Conditions: The cooler temperatures and lower humidity create an ideal environment for construction. Workers are more comfortable, and there are fewer delays from extreme weather.
  
  
  
• Contractor Availability: Demand decreases after the summer rush, so builders often have more flexibility in their schedules. This can mean shorter wait times and more personalized attention to your project.
  
  
  
• Better Pricing: Because fall is not peak season, some contractors may offer discounts, and material prices may drop as suppliers look to clear inventory.
  
  
  
• Ready for Next Year: Building in the fall ensures your deck is complete and ready to use the following spring and summer without waiting through construction delays.

Disadvantages of Fall Deck Building

• Shorter Days: Less daylight means limited working hours, which could extend your project timeline.
  
  
  
• Landscaping Considerations: If you plan to landscape around your deck, you may need to wait until spring for new planting.
  
  
  

Verdict: Fall is one of the smartest times to build. You get moderate weather, better contractor availability, and the satisfaction of having your deck ready for the next outdoor season.

Building a Deck in Winter

At first, winter might seem like the worst time to build a deck—but it has unique advantages that make it the most cost-effective season for many homeowners.
Advantages of Winter Deck Building

• Lower Costs: Winter is the slow season for contractors, which often translates to reduced labor rates and lower demand for materials. You could save significantly compared to peak-season building.
  
  
  
• Greater Availability: With fewer projects underway, contractors have more open schedules. This makes it easier to secure the builder you want without long wait times.
  
  
  
• Minimal Landscaping Damage: Since your lawn and garden are dormant, there’s less risk of damaging landscaping during construction.
  
  
  
• Material Curing: Pressure-treated lumber needs time to dry before staining or sealing. If you build in winter, the wood has ample time to cure before spring, making it easier to stain and protect once the warmer weather arrives.
  

Disadvantages of Winter Deck Building

• Cold Weather Challenges: Extremely cold conditions can make construction difficult, particularly if the ground is frozen and digging footings is required.
  
• Limited Material Availability: Some suppliers may reduce stock in the off-season, which could limit choices.
  
• Delayed Enjoyment: If your goal is to use the deck right away, winter is less appealing since outdoor living is limited.
  

Verdict: Winter is the most budget-friendly time to build. If cost savings and efficient curing are your priorities—and you’re okay waiting until spring to use your deck—this is an excellent option.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Time

Now that we’ve reviewed each season, it’s important to think about your personal priorities. Here are the main factors to weigh before making your decision:
1. BudgetIf you’re looking for the most cost-effective option, winter is often the best time. Lower demand means reduced contractor rates and potential material discounts.
2. WeatherFall and winter generally provide more stable, cooler weather that’s easier for construction and reduces the likelihood of rain delays compared to spring and summer.
3. Contractor AvailabilityFall and winter are slower seasons, meaning contractors have more time to dedicate to your project. This can result in better communication, faster scheduling, and sometimes lower costs.
4. Enjoyment TimelineIf your goal is to enjoy your deck immediately during the warm season, then spring or summer are the best choices. Just plan well in advance to secure your contractor.
5. Material CuringBuilding in the colder months allows pressure-treated wood to dry naturally before staining, leading to a longer-lasting finish when warmer weather arrives.

Final Thoughts: Which Season Is Right for You?

There’s no single “best” time to build a deck—it depends on your priorities.

• Want to enjoy your deck this summer? Build in the spring.
  
• Looking for convenience and immediate enjoyment? Summer is your season.
  
• Want the best balance of weather, contractor availability, and pricing? Fall is ideal.
  
• Focused on saving money and getting the longest life out of your materials? Winter is the smart choice.
  

By weighing your goals against the pros and cons of each season, you’ll be able to choose the timeline that works best for your home, budget, and lifestyle.

Conclusion: Ready to Build Your Dream Deck?

No matter the season, a well-built deck will add beauty, value, and functionality to your home for years to come. At Salt Lake City Decks, we specialize in custom deck design and construction that transforms your outdoor space into a true extension of your home. Whether you want a summer-ready deck, a fall project with smart savings, or a winter build that’s ready to shine in spring, our team has the experience and craftsmanship to deliver.
Start planning your deck today with Salt Lake City Decks. Call us at +1 (385) 364-1349 and let’s create the outdoor living space you’ve always imagined.