How Reliable Weather Data Can Improve The Construction Industry

The construction industry is known for heavy operations that are performed under high risk due to several different factors.

One of the variables to be factored in when making decisions in construction projects is the weather conditions of that particular site. With accurate weather data, construction plans can be carried out with more efficiency, regardless of the stage of the project.

Here’s how having reliable weather data improve construction work in different stages:

Pre-planning

Knowing the weather trends of your construction site, even as early as the bidding or tender stage, is crucial in making decisions on multiple levels.

While you may not be able to get accurate weather readings from general locations, once you zoom in to a specific site, the weather trends show a more resonant pattern. By being site-specific, you can find out the patterns and trends of the area of work that you are planning to go into. With such vital information, you can take into consideration your building material needs, project schedules and projected costs. You can also factor in sustainability issues that help resolve certain climate changes that cause the weather to be more erratic.

For example, when it comes to geology, in Japan, architects and engineers take into consideration how the country is often very prone to earthquakes. This is why they increasingly work on ways to make their buildings earthquake resistant.

The same practice happens in the meteorological world, too. An uplift from a tropical cyclone is capable of uprooting a building, damaging frames and can also cause destruction to telecommunication towers which then leads to daily life struggles. This is why construction in cyclone-prone areas such as the Caribbean is now done with new practices to keep building structures save by taking things like shape and wind resistance into consideration.

Other ways weather data helps in construction include examples in Singapore and Hong Kong, where you have what is known as green buildings to pave the way to tackle climate change.

View of Customized Statistical Historical Data Dashboard for design criteria purposes

Construction

Construction contractors and operators often find themselves making hard decisions on a day-to-day basis. Aside from manpower, deadlines and budget issues, they also have to increasingly consider how the weather can impact their operations.

If reports of unfavourable weather come in, they might be required to suspend construction activity. On the flip side, if they are aware of clear skies in the coming days, they can then plan their schedules to ensure productivity is at its highest so deadlines and budgets are met.

Let’s say, for example, when you hire the services of a meteorological service like thescreenweather, you get up-to-date information on any severe weather condition, for example, a flood. Knowing that the monsoon is approaching, you can prepare for extra material in case it becomes scarce during heavy rains or floods.

In the case of heavy winds in some locations, you can avoid work-at-height activities during gusty showers. You can also step up your safety regulations in areas where winds are stronger to ensure all construction workers adhere to rules such as fastening loose items or keeping them away in case of winds that send objects flying around the construction site.

With reliable weather data at hand, construction can take place smoothly, and project managers can avoid unfavourable circumstances if they are aware of hazardous weather coming their way. This saves time, money and also boosts productivity and morale as workers feel safe at the worksite.

View of Customized Hyper local Weather Forecast Impact Dashboard for scheduling day to day operations 

Maintenance

Through systems created by thescreenweather within Global MeteOcean Numerical Weather (GMONW) data production, construction managers are able to continuously monitor the weather at their site. Data derived from weather observations can help to ensure that projects are constructed with all possibilities in mind.

If a building requires some major renovation or maintenance, it can also be helpful if operators are aware of weather conditions. For example, if there is work required on the outside wall of a building, knowing the wind conditions of the day can help avoid any work-at-height construction worker from losing their balance.

If weather data are studied and implemented earlier, your project will also see less equipment wear and tear as quality standards are already meeting the best conditions.

Display of Freezing Air temperature forecast impacting Road, Personnel Safety and equipment performance

Incorporating weather into your construction schedule helps you stay ahead of possible issues at every stage of your construction project. Generating reliable weather data can help you improve your construction schedule, as any adverse weather conditions that cause delay or affect your bottom-line can be mitigated.

Contact us or use the form below if you’re looking to integrate an around-the-clock and trustworthy specific localized weather assistance to help you conduct your construction projects.