What’s the Best Time of Year to Start a Remodel in LA?
If you're dreaming about a shiny new kitchen, a bigger living room, or maybe a backyard that's finally more than just a sad patch of dirt, you might be wondering: When’s the best time to start a remodel in Los Angeles?
Lucky for you, LA has some of the best weather for construction projects year-round — but some seasons are definitely smoother than others. Let’s dive into the timeline like a construction worker into fresh ready mix concrete.
Spring: The Crowd Favorite 🌸
Spring is when the birds start singing, the sun comes out (well, more than usual), and builders all over LA gear up for action.
Pros:
Perfect weather for outdoor building construction — not too hot, not too rainy.
Great for starting major projects like foundation work, framing, flatwork, and backyard makeovers.
Easier to stay on schedule since spring storms here are rare.
Cons:
Because it’s so ideal, contractors get booked fast. Get your bid in early!
If you’re dreaming of a custom home build, adding a passive house wing, or tackling a full floor plan revamp, spring is prime time.
Summer: Hot Projects and Hot Temperatures ☀️
Summer in LA means clear skies, BBQs, and lots of construction sites bustling with activity.
Pros:
Extended daylight hours mean longer workdays — hello faster framing and form setting!
Dry conditions are perfect for pouring footer (footing) concrete and floating those perfect slabs.
Cons:
It’s hot. Real hot. Working outdoors on expansive soils or digging with a backhoe under the blazing sun isn’t fun for anyone.
Higher risk of heat-related delays and cranky crews. Make sure your construction company has a solid plan (and plenty of water).
Summer is fantastic for interior remodels too—especially upgrades like forced air heating/cooling systems, updating old GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets, or boosting fire safety with fire-resistive materials and better flashing.
Fall: The Secret Sweet Spot 🍂
Fall is like the hidden gem of remodeling seasons in LA.
Pros:
The weather stays warm but not scorching.
Many general contractors are wrapping up summer projects and might have openings.
Perfect for roofing projects — replacing fascia, checking felt (underlayment), and upgrading to green board where needed.
Cons:
It’s a race against the holidays. No one wants a construction site when they’re carving a turkey.
Planning a remodel for fall can be a savvy move, especially if you need change orders handled quickly without long summer wait times. Plus, fewer projects mean quicker city inspections. (We’re looking at you, LADBS.)
Winter: Slower, But Still Possible ❄️
Winter isn't bad for remodeling in LA—it’s just different.
Pros:
Contractors’ schedules are more open (hello, easier cost-plus contracts).
You might score discounts on labor and materials.
Cons:
Shorter daylight hours mean slower progress.
Rare rainstorms can delay exterior work like damp proofing or pouring ready mix concrete.
If you’re focusing on interior upgrades—new kitchens, bathroom revamps, or updating the floor plan with a sleek open concept—winter can actually be a great time.
Just keep in mind that bigger projects like pouring glulam beams or installing a girder truss roof addition are better left for spring or summer when weather delays are less likely.
Quick Pro Tips Before You Start:
Book Early: No matter the season, good contractors get snapped up fast.
Plan Smart: Have your blueprints ready, get your BIM (building information modeling) or CAD (computer-aided design) files sorted, and lock in your cost codes early.
Budget for Surprises: Always add a little wiggle room for unexpected change orders or that frieze board replacement you didn't know you needed.
Get Permits Early: LA bureaucracy loves taking its sweet time. Factor permit wait times into your schedule.
Check Your Grade: Make sure your grade slopes water away from your home to prevent future foundation issues during the rare rainy season.
Final Thoughts
In sunny Los Angeles, you’ve got the gift of flexible seasons for your remodel. Whether you’re building a green building, upgrading your construction site with fire-rated upgrades, or adding a dreamy new wing to your home, the key is planning ahead.
No matter when you start, working with experienced home builders or a trusted general contractor will make the process way smoother — and way less stressful.
Because at the end of the day, the cost to build a house (or upgrade it) is an investment in your comfort, your home’s value, and your everyday happiness. And that’s always in season. 🌞🏡🔨