Michigan is well-known for its harsh and often unpredictable winter weather. As winter fast approaches, it’s important to consider the role that weather plays in commercial construction, both during the building phase and after your building is fully functional. Here are a few winter weather considerations when planning your commercial construction build:
Pre-Planning and Scheduling
Winter weather can often throw a wrench in construction plans, making pre-planning and careful scheduling paramount in the beginning phases of your project. While weather cannot always be predicted, it’s useful to be as proactive as possible if building will occur during winter months. Accelerating certain tasks prior to winter, while also setting a winter-specific schedule that accommodates potential delays, helps to minimize potential setbacks during construction.
Client Communication
When dealing with unpredictable winter weather, having a direct and open line of communication between client and contractor is critical. Working with a trusted, reliable, and client-centered company helps to ensure that any potential delays or disruptions due to weather are communicated to you quickly and efficiently, helping to manage expectations realistically while fostering trust.
Safety
During a winter commercial build, safety should be a prime objective. You should ensure that workers have proper winter gear (gloves, insulated boots, etc.) to protect against frigid temperatures, and temporary shelters or enclosures should be available if need be. Furthermore, regular site inspections can help to identify accumulated snow or ice patches that can present safety risks.
Sustainability
Facilitating a commercial build in Michigan also means planning in advance for how your building will hold up in harsh weather conditions or extreme temperatures. Incorporating sustainable design choices into your commercial construction project, such as proper insulation and energy-efficient heating systems, helps to prepare your final building for whatever weather Michigan may experience.
While winter can be a challenging season in the commercial construction industry, these challenges can be safely managed with careful scheduling and proactive planning. Preparing for inclement weather, prioritizing swift communication, and providing appropriate equipment and gear all go a long way in making your commercial build progress seamlessly even in the heart of winter.