When is the best time of year to start an exterior renovation in New Brunswick?

The optimal window for exterior renovations in New Brunswick runs from May through September, giving you a solid 5-month construction season before winter weather shuts down most outdoor work.

May is often the sweet spot for getting started. The ground has thawed, frost risk has passed, and you'll have the full construction season ahead of you. Contractors' schedules also tend to open up after the spring rush of emergency repairs from winter damage. Starting in May means you can complete most projects well before the first frost, which typically arrives in late September to early October across the province.

Summer months (June-August) offer the most predictable weather for exterior work, but this is also peak season when contractors are busiest and material costs may be higher. If you're planning a major project like roofing, siding, or foundation work, booking your contractor in late winter or early spring for a May start gives you the best selection and often better pricing.

September can work for smaller projects, but you're racing against the weather. New Brunswick's construction season effectively ends in October when temperatures drop below the concrete pouring threshold (5°C consistently) and the risk of early snow increases, especially in northern areas like Edmundston and Campbellton.

Winter considerations are crucial in New Brunswick. Our frost line extends 4+ feet deep, and we regularly see temperatures hit -25°C to -35°C. Concrete work becomes impossible without heated enclosures, and exterior finishes like staining, painting, and caulking simply won't cure properly in cold temperatures. The province receives 250-350cm of snow annually, with northern regions getting even more.

Coastal areas face additional challenges from Bay of Fundy storms and salt air, particularly around Saint John, Shediac, and Bathurst. These areas may have slightly extended seasons due to moderating ocean temperatures, but storm risk increases in fall and winter.

For major renovations requiring building permits, contact your local authority early - whether that's your municipality (like Moncton at 856-4375 or Fredericton at 460-2020) or your Regional Service Commission for rural areas. Permit processing can take 4-6 weeks, so factor that into your timeline.

Start planning your exterior renovation in February or March to secure contractors and permits for an optimal May start date.