As the warm summer days begin to dwindle and the first hints of fall creep in, it’s time to start thinking ahead—especially if you have a building project on the horizon. Once the ground freezes, construction becomes significantly more challenging, costly, and in some cases, delayed altogether. That’s why getting a head start before the frost hits is crucial for setting your project up for success.
Here’s what you should be doing now to stay ahead of the freeze:
1. Finalize Your Plans and Permits
If you haven’t already locked in your design plans, now is the time. Whether you’re planning a residential barndominium, an agricultural structure, or a commercial facility, getting your blueprints finalized early gives you time to:
- Submit for permits
- Secure financing (if needed)
- Coordinate with your builder’s schedule
Permitting can take longer than expected, and most municipalities slow down in the winter, so starting this process now ensures you’re not left waiting when you’re ready to build.
2. Site Preparation and Excavation
The frost line in many northern states begins to harden by late October or early November, and once that happens, excavation and foundation work becomes much more difficult—and expensive. Completing this work ahead of the freeze ensures:
- Proper grading and drainage
- Trenching for utilities
- Soil stabilization (if needed)
- Easier concrete pours or pier setting
If you can get your foundation in before the ground freezes, you’ll be that much further ahead when the spring thaw hits.
3. Order Materials Early
Material lead times can spike during the fall and winter months due to demand and shipping delays. Work with your builder now to finalize your material list and get items on order. This ensures:
- Timely delivery before snow and ice affect transportation
- No surprise shortages on critical components like steel, trusses, or doors
- Better pricing by avoiding seasonal cost hikes
4. Secure Your Build Schedule
Contractors book up fast as the year winds down. If you want your project to break ground before or immediately after winter, locking in your spot on the build schedule now is key. Getting on the calendar early:
- Guarantees availability during your preferred window
- Allows time for any custom components to arrive
- Helps your builder coordinate subcontractors and inspections more efficiently
5. Consider a Winter Build Strategy
If your timeline extends into the colder months, talk to your builder about winter construction options. While some steps are limited by weather, other phases—like framing, enclosed shell installation, or interior work—may still proceed if the site is properly prepared.
Don’t Let Winter Set You Back
A successful build starts with solid preparation. By planning ahead and completing critical steps before the frost arrives, you’ll avoid delays, reduce costs, and set your project up for a smoother, faster timeline in the months to come.
Thinking about a 2026 build? Now’s the perfect time to begin planning so you can hit the ground running next spring.
Ready to get started? Contact our team today—we’ll help you make the most of the season and keep your project on track.
