Spring is here and the optimal construction season has begun. With temperatures rising and daylight savings in place, there is no better time for construction. Spring Construction is one of the most popular times for construction projects to begin.
Seasonal temperatures impact the construction industry, including these four factors:
- Equipment
- Construction Processes
- Working Team
- Materials
Each of these factors can be influenced by environmental conditions. To make a successful project, start by planning. Intelligent planning will help you and your team avoid potential problems and prepare the area.
Why Spring Construction is Great
On a construction site, climate plays a big role in the success and productivity of the project. Climate is one of the most important factors in successful construction. The climate determines the schedule for construction, the time frame for work, the materials utilized, and the longevity of the structure being constructed. Climate can impact the overall integrity and durability of the structure.
Utah’s Spring Temperatures are Ideal:
In Utah, the spring season brings a rise in temperatures, ranging from approximately 70 degrees to 30 degrees. This temperature range is perfect for preserving and working with certain materials and performing several methods of construction.
For instance, pouring concrete is done best in temperatures around 35 degrees to 65 degrees.
With that being said, it is important to remember the chance of precipitation during Spring in Utah (as you would during any season). Spring is warmer than winter, providing better working conditions, but the issues of moisture and rain persist.
Spring Construction is the Safest Climate for a Construction Team:
On a construction site, the people working are affected by the climate. Spring offers safe temperatures for the team to work in throughout the whole day. Unlike the harsh winter or the extreme summer heat blazing down, Spring allows for bearable UV rays, pleasant temperatures, and a lowered risk of heat-imposed health complications.
How Seasonal Temperature Changes Affect Construction
Spring Showers
Be wary of the Spring showers, as this can create issues on the job site. Because the weather is warm and still damp, materials and equipment used on the job can be ruined and damaged.
Material such as iron and steel can easily be rusted by rain. Wood, even when cured is susceptible to moisture. Materials must adhere to different surfaces, withstand diverse conditions, and uphold structural integrity.
Glue and paint are prime targets for water damage.
Brick used in construction is of the first building materials that are directly affected by rain during the construction phase. The moisture can be trapped within the inner walls. This moisture can be released at a later date.
To avoid these issues, be sure to plan your construction projects around the weather the best you can. By doing so, you are ensuring a quality build that can withstand the outside elements for years to come. This creates a safe environment for everything that is inside the structure.
Fall and Winter Risks
The fall and winter seasons are notorious for unsafe construction conditions in Utah due to slick, icy, and snow-covered grounds. Cold winter weather results in workers needing to dress warmly. This means the workers need to bundle themselves with layers. This makes for excessive padding, leading to less mobility and a higher possibility of accidents.
The extreme cold impacts cement and concrete. The setup process of these materials is tampered with, forming ice particles. These ice particles significantly reduce the stability and strength of the concrete and cement. The materials will crack and expand with the extreme temperatures. With this being said, construction can be done during the winter if the weather permits. Learn more about winter construction in Utah.
Summer Heat
Summer heat can be as large of an issue as extreme cold or precipitation. Heat can manipulate the dimensions of materials such as concrete, cement, wood, and other materials. Some materials are more affected than others. A change in material dimensions can lead to misaligned joins.
Heat affects workers drastically. Construction workers to be less careful due to heat exhaustion, drowsiness, and dehydration. Workers may want to wear less protective gear clothing as an effect of heat.
In Conclusion
After reviewing the different impacts from each season, spring construction is one of the most optimal construction seasons in Utah. For more information and guidance for a construction project, contact our experts today for more information.