October 12, 2023

Winter Construction: The Perfect Time To Upgrade!

Many think of construction as a spring/summer service that may not be suited for the wintertime. But winter construction is one of the best times to start working on projects that you have been thinking about.  

Here’s 3 reasons you may want to look at winter construction projects as an option:  

  1. The spring and summer months usually bring high demand for construction services. This could mean higher prices for you and your business if you are looking to make upgrades to your facilities.  
  1. Construction companies can be more focused on your project during the cold months rather than the summer months, giving you priority to your facility and taking better care that your project turns out just the way you want it.  
  1. Big construction projects that require breaking ground on property and building from the ground up may be hard for some companies, so this is the perfect time to focus on your indoor upgrades to electrical, HVAC and other services.  

For certain projects, you should seriously consider winter construction. Here are a few of the projects and upgrades that you can consider when planning for winter construction:  

Winter Construction is easy with Rubicon.

HVAC Repair & Upgrade 

HVAC repairs and upgrades seem to be an obvious decision for winter construction projects on commercial properties because they are so necessary. If your HVAC services aren’t working or they are just old, you will SERIOUSLY feel it during the colder months.  

When looking to upgrade your HVAC system, it’s important to consider the energy savings that you’ll receive. Upgrading your HVAC system during the winter can help you save money on your energy bills. Newer systems tend to be more energy-efficient, you can start seeing those savings right away instead of waiting until the summer when cooling costs are typically higher. 

Furthermore, upgrading your HVAC system during the winter can improve the overall comfort and air quality in your commercial space. With a new, more efficient system, you can ensure that you stay warm and cozy throughout the colder months without any issues or breakdowns. This is especially important if your current system is outdated or has been experiencing frequent malfunctions. 

Don’t underestimate the importance of HVAC updates in your winter construction projects. As the temperatures drop, your HVAC system is put under more strain to keep your offices warm. By addressing any issues or repairing worn-out components, you can ensure that your system is working efficiently and effectively to maintain a comfortable temperature. 

Lastly, investing in winter construction for your HVAC system can also extend its lifespan, saving you money in the long run. By regularly maintaining and repairing your system, you can avoid premature replacements and ensure that it continues to function properly for years to come. 

Electrical Upgrades 

Upgrading your electrical system in the winter can bring numerous benefits to your commercial property. Here's why you should consider upgrading your electrical system during this season.

  1. Increased availability of contractors 

As mentioned before, winter is typically a slow time for construction projects. This means that contractors are more likely to have open schedules and be available to work on your property. By scheduling your electrical upgrades during this time, you can potentially save yourself from delays in the project due to contractor unavailability. 

Additionally, contractors may offer discounts or special rates during the winter months to attract more work. 

  1. Less disruption to business operations 

Upgrading your electrical system can be a disruptive process, as it often involves shutting down power and causing interruptions to daily operations. However, by doing this upgrade during the winter when some business services aren’t as busy, you can minimize the impact on your daily operations. This can lead to a smoother and more efficient upgrade process, resulting in less downtime for your company. 

  1. Reduced risk of power outages 

Winter weather can be unpredictable, and heavy snow or ice storms can cause power outages. By upgrading your electrical system before the harsh winter weather hits, you can reduce the risk of unexpected power outages that could potentially disrupt your business and cause financial losses. Also, it’s important to check your generator. For more information about generators, read Rubicon’s guide to generators. 

  1. Proactive approach to maintenance 

Instead of waiting for electrical issues to arise, upgrading your electrical system during the winter allows you to take a proactive approach to maintenance. This can help prevent any potential problems and ensure that your property is equipped with an efficient and reliable electrical system. 

Overall, upgrading your electrical system in the winter is a smart investment for your commercial property. It can not only improve the safety and functionality of your building, but also save you time and money in the long run. 

Interior Makeover 

First and foremost, winter construction can provide a much-needed boost to the economy. This not only benefits the property owner in terms of cost savings, but also supports local businesses and workers. 

An interior makeover during the winter can result in less disruption to daily operations. With fewer people on-site and less foot traffic, the construction process can be completed more efficiently and with minimal impact on tenants or customers. This can also lead to a faster turnaround time, allowing the property owner to reap the benefits of an updated interior sooner rather than later. 

Winter construction allows for greater flexibility in scheduling. Due to harsh weather conditions, exterior renovations may be put on hold or delayed, but interior work can continue regardless. This means that the project can be completed on time and within scope. 

Boost Your Plumbing 

As the cold winter months approach, it is important to ensure that your commercial building's plumbing system is prepared to withstand freezing temperatures. The harsh conditions of winter can wreak havoc on your plumbing, causing pipes to freeze, burst, or become clogged. This can result in costly repairs and disruptions. 

If your commercial building still has old and outdated plumbing pipes, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Polyethylene (PEX) piping is a popular choice for winter construction due to its durability and resistance to freezing temperatures. Unlike traditional metal pipes, PEX piping can expand and contract without bursting, making it an ideal choice for cold weather climates. 

Regular maintenance is crucial in keeping your plumbing system functioning properly during the winter months. This includes checking for any leaks or cracks, ensuring proper insulation, and clearing out any clogs to prevent blockages that can lead to burst pipes. By staying on top of maintenance, you can catch any potential issues before they turn into costly repairs. 

Time for Winter Construction 

In conclusion, don't write off winter as a time for construction projects. With careful planning and the right contractor, winter construction can offer numerous benefits for your project. So don't hesitate to consider projects during the colder months – it may just be the best decision you make for your facility. 

Have some thoughts you want to bounce off the professionals? Let’s talk. 

Rubicon