Central Pennsylvania Homeowners Schedule Outdoor Projects Earlier to Avoid Summer Backlogs

Homeowners across Central Pennsylvania are scheduling outdoor living projects during winter and early spring rather than waiting until late spring, when contractor availability tightens and project completion dates extend into fall, according to A Plus Landscaping. The family-owned design-build contractor has observed a notable shift, with more families reserving spots for custom pools, paver patios, and outdoor living spaces several months in advance to ensure completion before the summer season begins.

"More people are calling us in January and early February instead of waiting until April or May," said Marcus Waldner, founder of A Plus Landscaping. "You want a pool or patio ready by Fourth of July? You can't start planning in spring." A significant number of inquiries arrive in December, from homeowners who hosted family during the holiday season and recognized the value of having dedicated outdoor space for those gatherings.

"People had everyone over for Thanksgiving or Christmas - kids, grandkids, the whole family - and it reminded them how much they value having everyone together," Waldner said. "Then they look at their backyard and think, 'If we had a pool or a patio, they'd want to come over all summer. Right now, there's nothing out there for them.'" For many households, the holidays highlighted how much their families have grown. The goal becomes creating a backyard environment that draws relatives back consistently throughout the warmer months, rather than for a single weekend in December.

Outdoor projects involve several steps before any construction begins. Homeowners must finalize designs, select materials, and navigate the permitting process. Projects incorporating custom pools or paver patios also require coordination across excavation, installation, and finishing phases. Planning during winter allows families to work through the design process without the pressure of an approaching season. Homeowners can evaluate layout options, ask detailed questions about materials, and make revisions before ground is broken.

Contractors also tend to have greater availability for consultations during slower months, allowing for more thorough discussions and considered decision-making. Those who delay until spring often encounter contractor backlogs and typical project timelines of 8 to 12 weeks, pushing completion into late summer or early fall. Families who begin planning in January or February improve their chances of securing a completion date that aligns with the season they intend to use the space. More information about their services can be found at https://apluslandscaping.com.