Planning a new deck might not be top of mind when Michigan’s freezing winds are blowing, but trust us—it’s the best time to get started. By getting started before the spring scramble, you can lock in the materials you want at a decent price, avoid scheduling delays, and have your deck ready to enjoy as soon as the weather warms up. Our goal is to get you BBQing on your new deck as soon as possible!

Here’s why winter is the ideal season to plan your summer deck project.

Custom Deck - Side View

Custom Deck - Stair Lighting

Custom Deck - Railing Lighting

Custom Deck - Side View Staircase

1. Take Your Time to Dream Up Your Perfect Deck

Winter’s quiet time gives you the chance to really think about what you want in your new deck. Instead of rushing through decisions in the spring, you can take your time to plan the layout, figure out its purpose, and think about extra features without any pressure.

Imagine how you’ll use your deck. Are you wanting a cozy nook for your morning coffee? What about a lively spot for family barbecues? Or maybe you’re wanting a versatile space for grilling and chilling.

Creating your dream deck is more fun when you have the time to…dream! Do you want a single-level deck or multi-tiered one? What kind of railings do you want? Do you want lighting, benches, or a pergola? How many sets of stairs do you want and where do you want them? What kind of materials do you want to use to build your deck? And then comes the real fun stuff—what kind of patio furniture do you plan to use? Where will your grill go? Come spring, it’ll be go-time! You’ll have a solid plan in place, making the building process smoother and more enjoyable.

2. Easier Permit and Approval Processes

Dealing with permits in the springtime can be a hassle, especially when everyone’s trying to get approvals at the same time. It happens every year—trust us, we’ve been doing this a long time! Once the temps hit 40 degrees and the sun breaks through the clouds, the spring itch for home renovation projects kicks in. Planning in winter means you can get those permits sorted out faster and with less stress.

With fewer folks applying for permits during the colder months, your paperwork moves much faster. This means no waiting around because of permit delays when you’re ready to start building. Getting your permits done now makes sure everything’s set when you’re ready to break ground.

3. Beat the Contractor Rush

Spring and summer are peak times for contractors like Visionary Builders, and our schedules fill up fast. This way, you can start building as soon as the weather warms up instead of waiting weeks or months for a spot. Your deck project stays on track without unnecessary delays. By planning your deck in the winter, you can secure your deck builder early and avoid long waits.

4. Better Availability of Materials

Decking materials can be hard to order and sometimes even more expensive once everyone starts their projects in spring. Planning now means you get better access to the materials you want without breaking the bank.

By choosing your materials early—whether it’s wood, composite, or PVC—you can order what you need before stock runs low. Buying materials in the off-season can also help you avoid price hikes during the busy months. This way, you get the materials you love without any last-minute surprises.

5. Manage Your Budget More Easily

Winter gives you the time to plan your budget without the pressure of immediate expenses. You can spread out costs, start saving, and even look into financing options at a comfortable pace.

Instead of scrambling to cover costs all at once, you can budget for design services, permits, and materials over several months. Plus, taking the time to find the best financing deals or saving up gradually makes the financial side of your project stress-free. By spring, your finances will be in order, making the building process smooth and enjoyable.

Ready for Your Dream Deck?

Starting your deck project in winter means you can plan every detail, secure permits, and line up materials well before the busy season kicks in. When spring arrives, you’ll be ready to build your dream deck with ease.

Let’s start planning your perfect outdoor space! Contact Visionary Builders today to request a free estimate and chat about what’s possible for your deck.

Request a Free Estimate

Frequently Asked Questions

Winter is ideal for planning a deck because contractors are more available, permits are faster to process, and materials are easier to secure before the spring rush.
Start by having a conversation with your deck builder early. We recommend spending some time looking at deck designs so you know what you like - Pinterest is a great tool for that! If you want your deck to be usable during Michigan’s spring and summer time, start planning your new deck build in the winter months. Your deck builder will walk you through different structural designs, layouts, and accessories to enhance your deck. You will need to decide how you’ll use your deck, choose materials like composite or PVC, and work with a deck builder to finalize the design, get permits, and order materials early.
Planning your new deck during the winter allows you to avoid scheduling and material delays, ensures contractor availability, and locks in materials before prices rise during the busy season. Plus it gives you something to look forward to when the temps are sub-zero!
- Wood: Timeless and affordable but needs regular upkeep.
- Composite: Durable, low-maintenance, and comes in various colors.
- PVC: Highly weather-resistant and perfect for Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Absolutely. We specialize in creating custom decks that fit your style, budget, and lifestyle—whether you’re dreaming of a quiet retreat or an entertainer’s paradise.

Why Winter is the Best Time to Plan Your Custom Deck in Michigan