Inuvik (Mar 10/03) - Spring is not far away and homeowners looking to do some home improvements should start planning for it now.

Whether you want to replace siding, add a new coat of paint or make a structural addition to your home, don't make it a last-minute project.

"On any type of renovation, first you have to have some idea of what you are going to do," said Pete Spilchak, trades supervisor for Whiponic Wellputer Ltd. in Norman Wells.

He said it's best to conduct indoor renovations during the winter and exterior over the summer months.

Upon approaching your local contractor, you should be able to provide an approximate budget for the project.

The location of your community should also be kept in mind when considering home improvements to ensure availability of supplies.

"You have to figure out if the material is available, otherwise you have to plan it for either winter road or barge season," said Spilchak.

In Norman Wells, he suggested, supplies for summer renovations should be ordered during colder months when the winter roads are up and running.

"Renovations can usually start around here in May, but the barge doesn't run until mid-June, end of June, depending on what the water situation is.

"So if you want to get a jump on it in early spring, then you should bring your material in during the winter," said Spilchak.

And for winter indoor renovations, those supplies should be ordered in the summer.

Once all details of the project are discussed with the contractor, he or she can provide an approximate cost. But there are no guarantees that the price is set stone, he warns.

"We can give them an approximate figure and usually that is a little high just to cover any unforeseen costs, but it could go a little higher," he said.