The Advantages and Disadvantages of Breaking Ground in the Winterĭigging ground during the winter has several advantages and disadvantages, as with any excavation operation. You won’t have to worry about how a trustworthy team will execute the job. However, with an experienced team, adapting a project for cold weather is a routine part of the work. Of course, cold weather does affect an excavation operation throughout the winter. The earth may become soft and malleable as the sun shines and warms it. Temperatures below freezing at all hours of the day for weeks at a time are uncommon. And each firm has protocols in place to ensure that a task is completed correctly during a winter storm.Ĭonsistently Below-Freezing Temperatures: When temperatures drop below freezing, the earth becomes rock hard and seems to be challenging to dig out. However, with an experienced crew, it is possible to work around this by covering the working area with tarps during a snowfall. Combining water and electrical equipment is also a cause for concern. If members of the team slip and fall on the job, they are more likely to get injuries. Snow and Ice: Dangers might arise when snow and ice go with an excavation activity. When temperatures fall below freezing and ice and snow begin to form, you may harm your excavation efforts. You may complete winter excavation projects throughout most of the year. Likely, the ground is not frozen through most winters if excavating for a home’s foundation. Temperatures must remain below freezing for weeks to freeze the top layer of soil. The Effects of Cold Weather on Construction Projects With several deadlines looming for spring building projects, why not begin excavation work now? There is no need to wait for an experienced crew ready to work. The common misconception is that the ground is too frozen to begin winter building operations. Winter months may be sluggish for many excavating businesses. Are excavations being placed throughout the winter? Are winter excavating services available? Is the expense of breaking through frozen earth higher? Source: Is Winter an Appropriate Season to Begin an Excavation Project? You may have several inquiries about winter excavating. While winter may seem like an ideal time to employ a construction crew for a spring project, you want to be sure of its viability.