Why Winter Is the Perfect Time to Plan Your Home Extension in Surrey

Lisa Woolnough • 28 October 2025

Introduction

When the weather turns cold, most homeowners put off thinking about renovations until spring. But here’s the truth — winter is actually one of the best times to plan your home extension.

While it’s not ideal for building work, it’s the perfect season to design, budget, and prepare. By using the quieter months wisely, you can hit the ground running in spring.

At Jigsaw Construction Surrey, your trusted local builders in Surrey, we’ve helped many homeowners get a head start — saving them time, money, and stress.



1. Beat the Spring Rush for Builders

Spring and summer are the busiest seasons for construction. By starting your planning in winter, you’ll:

  • Beat the rush for reliable home extension builders in Surrey
  • Have more flexibility with start dates
  • Secure better availability and pricing

When the first signs of spring arrive, you’ll already be ahead — with your plans, approvals, and contractor locked in.



2. Time to Perfect Your Design and Planning Applications

Winter gives you breathing space to plan properly. Use this time to:

  • Finalise your design and layout with an architect or designer
  • Submit your planning application (which can take 6–10 weeks to process)
  • Research materials, finishes, and energy-efficient upgrades

Planning ahead ensures your home extension project runs smoothly once construction begins — with fewer surprises and delays.



3. Easier Budgeting and Better Quotes

During winter, builders in Surrey often have more time to prepare detailed quotes and help you fine-tune your budget.
At Jigsaw Construction Surrey, we find that clients who plan early get clearer, more accurate pricing and avoid last-minute cost increases.

Taking time now means you can make informed choices — without the pressure of an imminent build.



4. Minimise Disruption to Family Life

No one wants dust and noise in the middle of summer! By planning in winter, you can schedule your build for early spring or summer, when you’ll naturally be spending more time outdoors.
That means less disruption — and you’ll be relaxing in your new space just as the weather warms up.



5. A Fresh Start for the New Year

Winter is a great time to dream big. Whether it’s a kitchen extension, open-plan living area, or loft conversion, planning now means you can start the new year with a clear vision for your home.
Your future self will thank you when the work kicks off smoothly — and your family enjoys a bigger, brighter home by summer.



Final Thoughts

While many homeowners slow down in winter, the savvy ones plan ahead.
Use these colder months to design, plan, and prepare your 
home extension in Surrey — and you’ll be ready to build when the weather improves.

At Jigsaw Construction Surrey, we’re here to help you every step of the way — from the first idea to the final build.

Start your 2026 project now — book a free winter consultation with our team today.


by Lisa Woolnough 2 January 2026
Introduction A new year brings fresh ideas — especially for homeowners thinking about upgrading or extending their living space. As we step into 2026, many people across Surrey are re-evaluating how their homes look, feel, and function. At Jigsaw Construction Surrey Ltd , we’ve already seen clear patterns emerging in the types of projects homeowners are enquiring about. From smarter layouts to eco-friendly upgrades, 2026 is shaping up to be a year focused on comfort, practicality, and long-term value. Here are the top home renovation trends we expect to see this year — and how they can transform your home. 1. Open-Plan Kitchen & Living Spaces Open-plan layouts continue to dominate renovation plans, and 2026 is no different. Homeowners want brighter, more sociable spaces that bring families together and improve daily living. Why it’s trending: Better natural light More space for entertaining A modern, spacious feel Great for property value For older Surrey homes with smaller rooms, removing walls or reconfiguring layouts can completely transform the way the home feels. 2. Energy-Efficient Upgrades With increasing focus on rising energy costs and sustainability, energy efficiency remains one of the biggest renovation priorities this year. Popular upgrades include: High-performance insulation A-rated windows and doors Underfloor heating Smart thermostats and TRVs Heat pumps and efficient boilers These improvements not only reduce bills—they make your home more comfortable year-round. For eco-conscious families, sustainability is no longer a bonus; it’s essential. 3. Garage Conversions and Loft Conversions Space is at a premium in Surrey, and homeowners are looking for ways to maximise what they already have. Conversions continue to be one of the most affordable and effective solutions. Why conversions are booming: No need for large extensions Faster completion times Great for home offices, bedrooms, gyms or playrooms Adds significant property value At Jigsaw Construction Surrey Ltd, garage conversions remain one of our most in-demand services heading into 2026. 4. Garden Rooms & Outdoor Office Spaces With flexible working now a long-term reality, many homeowners want functional, year-round garden rooms. Uses include: Home office Studio or workshop Guest room Gym Entertainment room These spaces offer a private, comfortable place to work or relax — without the cost of a full extension. 5. Sustainable & Natural Building Materials Homeowners are increasingly choosing environmentally conscious options in their renovations. Popular materials include: Sustainably sourced timber Natural stone Low-VOC paints Recycled or reclaimed materials These choices reduce environmental impact while giving homes a modern, stylish, and timeless finish. 6. Budget-Friendly Mini Renovations With many families keeping a closer eye on spending, smaller renovations are becoming more popular — offering big impact without breaking the bank. Examples include: Updating kitchens with new doors/worktops Modern bathroom refreshes New flooring Improved lighting Minor layout tweaks Internal redecoration for a fresh, modern feel These upgrades are perfect for improving comfort and adding value without committing to major works. Final Thoughts 2026 is all about smart, sustainable, and meaningful home improvements. Whether you want more space, better efficiency, or an entirely new layout, there’s never been a better time to plan your renovation. At Jigsaw Construction Surrey Ltd , we’re proud to help Surrey homeowners transform their properties with skilled craftsmanship, transparent service, and a friendly team you can rely on. 👉 Thinking of renovating in 2026? Contact Jigsaw Construction Surrey Ltd today for a free consultation and let’s bring your plans to life.
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