There is nothing more concerning to construction workers than watching dark storm clouds rolling across the skies, bringing with them threats of torrential downpours or extended periods of rain. While gardeners rejoice at the prospect of continued wet weather, those in the construction industry think of additional expenses and delays. How, then, can you plan ahead to limit the damage and delays from water inundating your worksite? Here are some tips.
Shore up the trenches
The most serious and inconvenient water damage on a construction site occurs when trenches are being dug and foundations laid. This can be dangerous as the water will weaken the sides of the trenches and increase the changes of cave-ins. You can take precautions against this by installing shoring systems. Visit www.mabeyhire.com.au for the range of shoring and protective products available.
Address drainage issues early
Do a bit of research on past floods and water levels at and near your construction site before you start work. If it appears the area is prone to regular rain events or heavy flooding, install additional or larger pipes for improved drainage. During construction, check your drainage systems regularly for breaks or blockages, and ensure equipment or waste isn’t left in areas that could divert water flows or block drainage points.
Cover the site where possible
Use tarpaulins or other covers as makeshift roofs during construction, especially at night and other times when no work is underway. Similarly, if possible, cover open trenches or holes to stop them filling with water when it rains. Consideration should also be given to installing temporary drainage or water courses around open ground until you are ready to fill in the area.
Don’t leave it too late to seal
A building under construction is at its most vulnerable before the roof goes on. It could be beneficial to seal any exposed walls and floors to protect them from the weather, even if they are internal and will be protected once the building is complete. This additional effort could be worth it in the long run if poor weather holds up work before external walls and roofing can be completed.
Swift clean-up is the key
If you have been unfortunate enough to experience water damage on your site, don’t rely on the sun to clean up. Move in swiftly to remove stagnant water and repair any damage. Excessive water left around trenches or in vehicle movement areas can be dangerous and costly. Cover any larger pools of water to stop vehicles and equipment getting bogged and to avoid spreading mud across the construction site. Ensure any internal areas are fully dried, otherwise mould could form. This is not only unhealthy, but can be hard and expensive to remove.
Water is an important aspect of life but problems will occur if we have too much. You can’t avoid rain on a construction site, but you can be proactive when taking the steps to ensure as little damage as possible is done, and that work can get underway again as soon as possible after the rains have gone.
