While temperature is a component of weather when constructing a house or any building, it is also involved in ensuring the building is safe and durable.
If you overlook how cold or hot influences the construction process, you can have cracks, bad surfaces, and massive headaches. Let’s observe why temperature matters and what you can do.
Temperature Affects Curing and Drying
Cement, paint, and adhesives cure or dry slowly according to temperature. Too cold weather slows down curing. Too warm weather makes it dry too quickly. Either of them lowers the strength and durability of your structure.
Tip: Always consult the recommended temperature range for your materials. Don’t rush, especially with foundation layers.
Cold Weather Can Weaken Concrete
Cold-weather poured concrete can lose 50% of its designed strength. The mixed water can freeze, expand, and cause the surface to break before setting, producing a weak and brittle surface.
Tip: Cast cold-weather concrete under insulating blankets or hot enclosures. This protects the mix for setting time.
Heat Can Ruin Finishes and Coatings
When it’s too hot outdoors, finishes like paint or sealer dry too quickly. This causes weak bonding, bubbling, or peeling. This is especially important when using protective finishes like primer for epoxy, which take adequate time to adhere well prior to applying the second application.
Tip: Apply the finish during cooler times of the day and apply in direct sunlight whenever possible.
Adhesion and Bonding Are Temperature Dependent
Regardless of whether installing tiles, waterproofing membranes, or flooring coatings, temperature directly affects the extent to which materials bond. Adhesives are generally temperature-dependent; they require a consistent environment in which to set and cure correctly.
Tip: Avoid applying adhesives or installing high-performance flooring systems outside the product’s optimum temperature range. It can cause early failures.
Expansion and Contraction Cause Cracks
Materials expand when they are warm and contract when they are cool. Your design is not able to accommodate this, and there is cracking, delamination, and joint failure over time, particularly with large surfaces like floors, ceilings, and walls.
Tip: Employ expansion joints where there is a large structure. Use materials that will expand and shrink.
Use Products Appropriate to Local Climates
Choose construction materials made for your specific climate zone. These are formulated to perform well under the temperatures you’re most likely to encounter.
Tip: Talk to your supplier or contractor about climate-suitable options. Always check the labels and usage guides.
Wrapping Up
Construction is an investment. If you want your building to last, you must respect how temperature affects every phase of the process. Take control with wise planning, superior materials, and utilizing professionals who understand how to construct in your environment. You don’t have a second opportunity for a good foundation, so construct wisely from the outset.