How do I plan a renovation timeline, knowing that New Brunswick winters slow things down?

Planning a renovation timeline in New Brunswick requires working around our harsh winters and short construction season. The key is understanding that exterior work essentially stops from November through March, while interior projects can continue year-round with proper planning.

Start with your exterior work window — May through September gives you roughly five months for roofing, siding, windows, concrete, and any structural additions. This is your most critical constraint. If you're planning a major renovation involving both interior and exterior work, schedule the exterior components first and use the winter months for interior finishing.

For a typical whole-home renovation, plan 18-24 months total if it involves significant exterior work. A kitchen renovation might take 8-12 weeks during construction season, but if you need structural changes or new windows, factor in potential weather delays. Bathroom renovations can often be completed year-round since they're typically interior-focused, running 4-8 weeks depending on scope.

Permit timing is crucial in New Brunswick. Building permits from your municipality or Regional Service Commission can take 4-8 weeks to process, and you'll want approval before the construction season starts. Submit applications by February or March for May construction starts. Remember that electrical permits come from NB Power (1-800-615-0522) and must be obtained before work begins, while TIS handles the final inspections for electrical, plumbing, and gas work.

Material delivery challenges intensify in winter, especially in rural areas where road conditions can delay shipments. Order materials well in advance and have secure, dry storage ready. Many contractors reduce their crews or focus on interior work during winter months, so booking your preferred trades early is essential.

Concrete work stops when temperatures consistently drop below -10°C without heated enclosures. In New Brunswick, this typically means no foundation pours, driveways, or exterior concrete from December through March. Plan any concrete work for completion by late October at the latest.

Interior renovations can proceed through winter, but factor in heating costs and ventilation challenges. Dust control becomes more critical when windows can't be opened, and material deliveries may face delays during storms. Many homeowners use the winter months for planning, permits, and material selection, then execute in spring.

Consider your living situation during extended renovations. If you're staying in the home, winter work can be more disruptive since you can't easily open windows or use outdoor spaces. Some families plan to live elsewhere during the most intensive winter renovation phases.

Budget for weather delays — add 15-20% to your timeline for unexpected weather, especially if your project spans multiple seasons. Spring flooding can also impact work in flood-prone areas like the Saint John River valley, so check provincial flood risk maps if you're in those regions.

Contact your municipality or RSC early in the planning process to understand their specific permit requirements and processing times. Having all approvals in place before construction season begins will help you maximize that crucial May-to-September window for exterior work.