Construction is vital all year, but inclement weather during cold and stormy seasons can throw a wrench in the plans. Protecting your building materials and job site as best as possible will save you money on ruined materials. Learn more about how to minimize the impact of inclement weather on your job site by reviewing these tips.

4 Tips for Protecting Your Construction Site From Inclement Weather

1. Secure the Structure

Rain and snow don’t wait for a structure to be weather-ready before striking. When winds, rain, or snow are coming, protect it by securing roof decking, covering openings with a weatherproof barrier, and making sure posts and framework can hold up to the storm. You should take pictures of the site before leaving so you can easily spot any shifting or damage.

2. Protect Tools & Building Materials

If inclement weather is coming or the workday is over, don't leave anything out to be blown away, rained or snowed on, or stolen. All tools should be stored somewhere dry and secure, like a weather-resistant toolbox. Building materials like lumber and brick should be covered in a weatherproof barrier or a tarp secured in place. Hardware should be stored in waterproof containers or toolboxes that won’t blow away.

3. Monitor Weather Conditions

Check the week’s forecast so you can track upcoming storm systems, allowing you to plan for the most work on sunny days and inside work on stormy ones. Check again the night before and throughout the day to watch for popup storms. The sooner you know rain or snow is coming, the more time you’ll have to prepare.

4. Prepare for Flooding

Install drainage systems at your job site, even if they’re temporary, to divert pooling water away from the building. Keep a water pump onsite to remove water if it floods so you can work and assess damages. Only install permanent aspects like flooring, drywall, and counters once the structure is waterproof and the exterior has been finalized so they don't get damaged.

Were your building materials damaged in inclement weather? Stayton Builders Mart in Marion County, OR, offers affordable materials to get your job going again. Since 1977, they’ve stocked crucial supplies like roof decking, lumber, concrete mixes, hardware, framing materials, and PVC piping — all high-quality and ready to use. View some of the products they offer online, and call (503) 769-7118 to inquire about availability for large orders.