You’re watching leaves fall and you can feel temperatures dropping day by day. That also means that you’re probably not thinking a whole lot about deck projects right now.
But here's something worth considering: the decisions you make this fall and winter about your 2026 outdoor living plans could determine whether you're enjoying your new deck by Memorial Day or still waiting in line come the 4th of July holiday. By the time spring rolls around, a lot of people start Googling "deck builders near me." And it’s only when placing that first call in the month of March that they realize timing matters more than they initially thought.
When Is a Good Time to Book a Deck Contractor for Your 2026 Deck Project?
In short, right now. Fall and winter are excellent times to plan projects for spring and early summer construction.
Avoiding the Summer Rush
By late spring and summer, the companies that show up when you look for, for example “Clive deck contractor” are typically booked for weeks or months. That means the homeowners who wait until warm weather to start planning often watch much of their outdoor season slip away before construction has begun.
Scheduling your complementary design consultation now means getting on the books after the summer rush but before the spring surge. In doing this, you’ll find you have more flexibility in scheduling, more time for thoughtful design decisions, and priority placement in the construction queue.
Locking in Current Material Prices
Construction materials tend to increase in price year over year. By planning and potentially purchasing materials this fall and winter, you can take advantage of current pricing before spring increases.
Material price increases of 5-10% aren't uncommon year-over-year, which on a typical deck project can mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars in savings. Labor costs tend to follow the same trend, with crews adjusting their rates to match rising expenses. Getting on the schedule this fall helps you secure both materials and labor at current prices.
While Iowa winters can make active construction difficult to impossible during the coldest months, fall can still be a great time to build. And, of course, winter is perfect for planning.
Iowa falls often provide ideal building weather: comfortable temperatures, stable ground conditions, and plenty of daylight. Depending on scope, projects started in fall can frequently be completed before harsh winter weather arrives.
Winter weather may limit construction, but it's perfect for design and planning. Working with a Clive deck contractor during winter months means ample time for design consultations, careful material selection, and planning.
Think of winter as your strategic planning season. By the time spring arrives, you're ready to go immediately rather than just starting the planning process.
The Benefits of Starting Early
Projects planned in fall and winter are often built by spring and early summer. This is the best way to make sure you can enjoy your custom deck, porch or patio during the best months for outdoor living, which typically span from Memorial Day through Labor Day. That’s a lot better than watching construction happen during those precious warm months. Getting started now can be the difference that allows you to enjoy your entire peak outdoor season.
Looking for “Professional Deck Companies Near Me?”
As experienced deck builders serving Central Iowa, we consistently see that the most satisfied clients are those who plan ahead. They benefit from faster scheduling, more time for design refinement, and the ability to enjoy their investment during the entire outdoor season.
If you’re beginning to envision your new deck, patio or porch and the amenities that can go in each, check our photo gallery to see what’s possible. You can also download our design guide for additional ideas on materials and features.
In terms of finances, we also encourage you to check out our financing options, which include 12 months same as cash.
If you are ready to start your deck, porch, or patio design process, it would be our distinct pleasure to meet with you for a no-obligation complimentary design consultation. Call Harold Cross and his team at 515-203-8734, or contact us using our online form.
