Contractors and construction crews often face formidable challenges that can slow down or even halt their projects as the outside temperature drops during the holiday season. Cold weather impacts everything, from the quality of materials to worker comfort and safety. In these situations, contractors often rely on reliable temporary heating to maintain workable conditions on the jobsite.
Below, we cover the top five scenarios where temporary heating is essential to keep projects on track, maintain quality and ensure a safe work environment during the coldest months. By planning for these needs in advance, construction teams can keep operations moving smoothly and protect their work quality, regardless of the weather.
1. Preventing Frozen Pipes and Plumbing
Construction projects often continue throughout the winter months despite freezing temperatures. On sites where plumbing is exposed, temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit can cause unprotected pipes to freeze and burst. This kind of accident can lead to significant water damage and construction delays.
Heating systems can maintain a consistent temperature, ensuring work can proceed without interruptions. Heated tents or enclosures can create a controlled environment, protecting plumbing from harsh weather. Heating is also often used in basements, bathrooms and other interior areas to keep projects on track and avoid additional expenses.
2. Curing Concrete
The curing process slows down when outside temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water in the concrete mixture freezes, it can also cause the concrete to crack after curing, as the chemical reactions during mixing are compromised.
Contractors can use heating systems to maintain the desired temperature around newly poured concrete so it cures properly. This tactic helps produce a stronger final product and reduces the risk of repair work later, saving money in the long run.
3. Protecting Equipment and Materials
Some construction materials, such as adhesives, coatings and sealants, lose effectiveness or become unusable if exposed to freezing temperatures. Additionally, equipment may malfunction if temperatures fall too low, increasing downtime and repair costs.
Temporary heating helps keep materials within manufacturer-specified temperature ranges. For instance, adhesive materials need to stay above 50 degrees Fahrenheit to remain effective. Heating keeps equipment like pneumatic tools and compressors operating smoothly, allowing work to proceed without delays or additional expenses from damaged materials.
4. Drying Drywall and Paint
Paint and drywall compounds require low humidity and a specific temperature to dry correctly. Cold or damp conditions can prevent proper adhesion, causing bubbles, cracks and uneven surface finishes. Finishing tasks like plastering, painting or installing drywall often require specific humidity and temperature levels for optimal results.
Low temperatures can slow down drying times, leading to delays in project timelines. If materials do not dry properly, they can result in poor finishes, peeling paint or uneven surfaces, which necessitate extra labor and materials to fix.
Heaters can reduce humidity, preventing moisture problems that impact the quality of work. By controlling the indoor climate, contractors can keep their work moving on schedule and meet the drying requirements of these materials.
5. Maintaining Worker Comfort and Safety
Contractors who work in extremely cold temperatures are at risk for cold-related illnesses like hypothermia or frostbite. Frigid conditions also reduce productivity and increase safety risks, as workers may rush or lose dexterity.
OSHA has specific requirements that address temporary heating on construction sites, including using temporary heaters in enclosed areas and providing warm shelters for workers. All heating devices must follow 29 CFR 1926. 154 safety standards. OSHA also sets standards for carbon monoxide exposure in 29 CFR 1910.1000, electrical safety under 29 CFR 1926.403, and safety training and hazard communication under 29 CFR 1926.21.
Heating equipment keeps indoor and outdoor work areas warm, allowing workers to operate safely and efficiently. Contractors commonly use portable heaters in specific zones or enclosed areas, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. Warmer conditions can also help improve morale and productivity while reducing safety incidents.
Types of Temporary Heating
Renting temporary heaters is a flexible and cost-effective way to keep work progressing in cold conditions and make sure everything from paint drying to concrete curing stays on schedule. With various types available to match your site-specific needs, temporary heaters are an essential tool:
- Indirect fire heaters: Indirect fire heaters bring clean, warm air into insulated spaces, using ducting to remove harmful exhaust fumes.
- Direct fire heaters: Direct heaters are often used on construction sites or loading docks and offer efficient heating, but they are not suitable for enclosed areas.
- Electric heaters: Electric heaters can be used in any indoor or outdoor space as long as there is an external power source.
- Flameless heaters: Flameless heaters keep workspaces safe and warm. They are suitable for use in environments with flammable gases or materials.
- Hydronic surface heaters: Hydronic surface heaters are often used at construction sites. They offer reliable heat distribution and offer consistent temperature control.
- Radiant and specialty heaters: Radiant and specialty heaters operate at low volumes, minimizing noise pollution in work environments.
- Self-contained heaters: Self-contained heaters streamline workflows and are robust enough to withstand harsh environments.
How to Prepare for the Colder Months With the Right Heating
Finding the right temporary heating for your project involves the following steps:
- Assess your needs: Identify the specific areas your project will need heating for and determine the heat output these areas will require. Keep in mind that larger jobsites typically have greater heating needs. Additionally, different types of projects require different kinds of temporary heating, as mentioned above.
- Allocate budget: Renting heating equipment is often the most cost-effective option for businesses, especially those that only work in cold weather part of the year. Add this rental expense to your project’s budget to ensure you have access to heating without unexpected costs.
- Rent on time: Ideally, you want to plan for temporary heating. If you’re going to be on a jobsite that will remain operational during the cold months, schedule your heating rental in advance to make sure you have the solution you need. Working with a professional rental company can help you access high-quality equipment.
Get All the Gear You Need for Heating From Herc Rentals
In cold-weather work environments, having the right temporary heating solution can significantly impact project timelines, safety and overall productivity. Whether you need to keep workers comfortable, dry materials or maintain ideal temperatures for equipment, temporary heat helps contractors overcome seasonal challenges.
Herc Rentals offers a wide selection of portable heater options, including electric, direct-fired, indirect-fired and specialty heaters. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect climate control solution for your worksite’s unique needs, whether you’re planning for a project or need emergency heat now. Find a branch near you to get started.
