FAQ: Do You Build in the Winter?

We get this question all the time in Vermont:
“Do you still build in the winter?”

Short answer: Yes — and here’s how we do it right.

Vermont Winters Are No Joke — But Neither Are We

There’s no getting around it: winter in Vermont can be brutal. Subzero temps, ice storms, and snowpack aren’t exactly ideal jobsite conditions.

But we don’t shut down just because it’s winter. We plan for it and build around it.

What We Don’t Do in Winter

There are certain things we won’t compromise on:

• We don’t pour foundations in January or February unless the weather allows for proper curing and long-term performance
• We don’t rush framing just to “get it up” — winter framing takes more planning and protection
• We don’t cut corners just to keep a schedule

If your builder says, “Oh yeah, we pour concrete anytime” — that’s a red flag.

What We Do Instead

Winter builds are totally viable — when planned right. At RNT Builders:

• We schedule design and pre-construction work for winter so builds are dialed and ready for spring
• We focus on interior work and finishes during cold months
• For slab-on-grade projects, we pour before deep freeze — or wait until we can guarantee a proper result
• We build through winter when conditions and sequencing allow

When we build during winter, we account for:

• Snow load and weather-related delays
• Heating and workspace conditions
• Crew safety and logistics
• Inspections and material availability

The result? A job that stays on schedule without sacrificing quality — even when there’s snow on the ground.

The Key Is the Process

Just like everything else, winter building comes down to organization.

If your builder doesn’t have a clear schedule, doesn’t plan ahead with trades, or doesn’t adjust for weather windows — your winter project will suffer.

That’s not how we operate.

Bottom Line

Yes, we build in winter. No, we don’t sacrifice quality to do it.

If you’re planning a build and wondering whether to wait until spring, the best move is to start your pre-construction phase now.

That way, you’re first in line when the weather breaks — or you’re staged smartly for steady progress over winter.