Homeowners across Central Pennsylvania are increasingly booking outdoor living projects during winter and early spring rather than waiting until late spring, according to A Plus Landscaping, a family-owned design-build contractor. This shift allows families to guarantee project completion before the summer season begins, avoiding contractor backlogs that can extend timelines into fall.
Marcus Waldner, founder of A Plus Landscaping, noted that many inquiries now come in January and early February. "If you want a pool or patio finished by the Fourth of July, you simply cannot wait until spring to start the conversation," Waldner said. The trend reflects a strategic approach to navigating seasonal demand, as projects that incorporate custom pools or paver patios require multiple phases of work, including design planning, material selection, and permitting, before construction can begin.
A significant driver behind early bookings is the experience of hosting family during the holiday season. Waldner explained that gatherings over Thanksgiving or Christmas reminded homeowners how much they value shared time together. "Then they walk outside and think, 'If we had a pool or a patio, everyone would want to come back all summer long. Right now, there is nothing out there drawing them in,'" he said. Many households recognized over the holidays how much their families have grown, sparking a desire to build dedicated outdoor spaces that encourage more frequent gatherings throughout warmer months.
Beginning the planning process in winter offers practical advantages. Homeowners can work through the design phase without peak-season pressure, carefully reviewing layout options and asking detailed questions about materials and finishes. Contractors also tend to have greater availability for in-depth consultations during slower months, leading to more focused attention and fewer rushed decisions. In contrast, delaying until spring often results in contractor backlogs and project timelines of 8 to 12 weeks, which can push completion into late summer or early fall, potentially missing the season families hope to enjoy.
The implications of this trend extend beyond individual households to the local economy and construction industry. Early bookings help stabilize contractor schedules, reduce seasonal bottlenecks, and ensure timely project delivery, benefiting both service providers and consumers. For homeowners, securing summer completion means maximizing the use of their investment in outdoor living spaces, enhancing family connectivity and recreational opportunities. As Waldner emphasized, starting early is crucial for those aiming to create inviting backyard environments that foster lasting memories. More information about outdoor project planning is available at https://apluslandscaping.com.
