Cold Weather and Construction
Construction Safety, Abatement and Remidiation
How Weather can Affect Your Structure
- When temperatures fall below freezing, care and caution should be taken regarding plumbing, heating and falling ice.
- Since water expands upon freezing, if water in pipes freeze the potential for a water break is increased.
- Keep cabinets open to allow warm air to keeps pipes at ambient temperature.
- Keep the taps open slightly to keep water flowing during freezing temps.
- Hot water can actually freeze faster than cold water.
- It can be advisable to keep hot water taps open to allow a slow trickle from the tap.
- In buildings with fire sprinkler systems, pipes may freeze in areas of buildings, like entryways, that has inadequate heating systems.
- If possible, increase ambient heat in these areas.
- Snow and ice can build up on roofs and pose a hazard by falling on those below.
- Watch for icicles and any snow on sloped roofs and avoid walking too closely to the building.
- Signs may be posted indicating dangers from falling ice.
Contact
Ryan Tyson
rmtyson@purdue.edu
765-494-1019