A weather protective enclosure made of polyethylene sheeting is paramount for construction projects during the winter. Winter weather brings rain, sleet, snow, high winds, and cold temperatures, which can be damaging to both your project and dangerous for your team. A temporary building enclosure can mean added safety for your project.
Uses for Weather Protective Enclosures
A temporary building enclosure for your projects has many advantages promoting safety and protection, meaning your team can operate effectively year-round.
Insulate
Plastic sheeting as a weather protective enclosure during the winter months can insulate the building to prevent heat loss and make work conditions more bearable for your team.
Prevent Water Damage
Water damage can be especially brutal in the colder months. Water can enter your project, and because cold and frozen water expands, this can further compromise the integrity of your materials. A temporary building enclosure made of plastic sheeting can prevent water damage from snow and rain. And when paired with a leak diverter drain tarp, your team can ensure that no water makes it to areas where it can cause damage.
Shield Debris
Increased debris and wind speeds during the winter months can clutter your project site and damage your materials, tools, and wiring. A weather protective enclosure protects your partially completed construction project by creating a barrier against blowing debris, keeping your project clean and protected.
Assist Team
Winter snow, rain, and ice can create a hazardous environment for your team, causing conditions such as slippery walking surfaces or disruptive temperatures. A temporary building enclosure insulates and protects your project, allowing your team to continue their progress throughout the winter months.
Considerations Before Buying Plastic Sheeting for a Weather Protective Enclosure
Choosing the right plastic sheeting to build your enclosure means evaluating your project and the winter environment. Tougher, harsher winter conditions typically will require more durable materials, whereas milder conditions might require medium-duty protection for easy installation and removal.
Project Length
Consider how long the weather protective enclosure needs to last when choosing the right plastic sheeting. The life of plastic sheeting is often dependent on the life of its UV protection, which can vary from 3-6 months up to four years.
Snow Load Amount
Consider the snow load on the zone of your project. Heavier snow build-up can weigh down thinner plastics, damaging, puncturing, or otherwise shortening the life of your building enclosure. Projects in areas with heavier snowy seasons should rely on thicker plastic or string-reinforced plastic sheeting.
High Winds
During the heightened wind speeds of the winter months, the plastic sheeting of your temporary building enclosure should be strong enough to endure debris and pressure. String-reinforced plastic sheeting is ideal for enclosures that need superior puncture and rip resistance
Sunlight
Consider whether or not this is a project where sunlight should be let in. To allow sunlight in, consider using a clear plastic sheeting enclosure that will allow light transmission. To block sunlight, invest in an opaque white or black plastic sheeting enclosure.
Compliance
Consider building or safety requirements when buying sheeting for your weather protective enclosure. Fire retardant plastic sheeting is a common requirement for temporary construction enclosures, and sheeting may need to meet NFPA 701 or ASTM E84 testing standards. Ensure that your enclosure meets your specific requirements.
What is the Best Plastic Sheeting for a Temporary Building Enclosure
No matter what your application needs are, we can help you find a solution for your temporary building enclosure. Here are some of our top-performing products designed to keep winter weather out.
Heavy-Duty Protection
SolaScrim™ 4 Year 10 mil Clear Reinforced Greenhouse Cover
10 Mil Clear Dura-Skrim® Reinforced Plastic Sheeting
Medium-Duty Protection
6 mil – 12 Mil Heat Shrink Wrap (Up to 1 year of UV protection)
6 Mil Clear Dura Skrim Reinforced Plastic Sheeting (Up to 6 months of UV protection)
Temporary Fire Retardant Protection
6-8 mil Fire Retardant Tuff Scrim Reinforced Plastic Sheeting
8 mil Black Fire Retardant Plastic Sheeting
6 Mil and 10 Mil Fire Retardant Dura Skrim Reinforced Plastic Sheeting
Trusted by Growers, Builders, and Distributors
Americover is the smart source for plastic and polyethylene sheeting. Trusted by contractors and distributors across the construction and agriculture industries, our American-made products combine reliability with quality and innovation.
As an Americover customer, you will receive the personalized support of a dedicated account manager to simplify the ordering process and ensure the best solution for every one of your projects. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and fulfill orders Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. If you would like to speak with a representative, call us at 760-388-6294 or contact us.