Shrink-wrap weatherproofing: Keeping projects on schedule
Keeping construction, restoration or demolition projects on track is vital but bad weather can have a serious impact. It can delay schedules, increase costs and disrupt trades on site. This is where the reliable and efficient shrink-wrap weatherproofing properties come in; keeping projects on schedule regardless of the weather.
At Tufcoat, we’ve supplied and installed shrink-wrap weatherproofing for over two decades. It’s a fast, flexible way to protect part-finished buildings, exposed structures and sensitive areas from the elements, giving contractors greater control over sequencing and programme delivery.
Why choose shrink-wrap weatherproofing?
Traditional project timelines often fall victim to weather delays, particularly during the crucial transition from external construction to internal work. Shrink-wrap is incredibly versatile. Once heat-sealed, it forms a continuous, waterproof, drum-tight layer. Unlike traditional sheeting or tarpaulins, shrink-wrap weatherproofing is extremely durable and won’t flap or tear in high winds, making it ideal for exposed sites or tall buildings.
Controlled environment
Tufcoat’s flame retardant and custom-fitted shrink-wrap weatherproofing solutions are safe to use in live construction environments, offering peace of mind when working at heights or in complex locations. By enclosing a structure, even partially, teams can begin fit-out works, install services, and continue progress inside, even if the external works are delayed.
This approach was tested when Wates contacted Tufcoat to support the construction of the new Life and Mind Building (LaMB) at the University of Oxford. With over 2,000 researchers and students due to occupy the building upon completion, timing was critical. Our team installed shrink-wrap construction screens on four floors of the reinforced concrete frame, creating weatherproof barriers that allowed internal fit-out to begin much earlier than planned. Meanwhile, external teams were able to continue cladding installation unhindered. The result was a smoother programme of work, reduced downtime and a safer, cleaner working environment for everyone on site.
Another great example is our recent project at the LHR21 Data Centre in Acton. Glencar needed a way to keep their build moving while waiting for access to one side of the structure to install cladding. The risk of weather delays was high and could have had a serious knock-on effect on internal works. Tufcoat stepped in with a phased installation of over 3000m² of shrink-wrap weatherproofing screens across five floors. Despite strong winds and a shifting programme, the team delivered on time, allowing the internal fit-out to continue without delay.
Key benefits of shrink-wrap weatherproofing
Shrink-wrap weatherproofing offers project and construction managers multiple strategic benefits that impact the entire project lifecycle. These include:
- Faster project timelines: Shrink-wrap protects internal environments before external works are complete, enabling internal activity to start sooner, potentially saving weeks or even months on overall schedules.
- Working in unison: Our Oxford University project shows that shrink-wrap screens can create a perimeter corridor that allows external cladding contractors to work simultaneously with internal fit-out teams without interference.
- Enhanced health and safety: Flame retardant shrink-wrap materials meet stringent safety standards and our installation process focuses on dust reduction and proper PPE use.
- Cost efficiency: Shrink-wrap weatherproofing might represent a modest cost in the overall project budget but it can deliver significant cost savings by preventing weather-related delays and allowing earlier commencement of construction phases.
- Keeping your project on track: Shrink-wrap installation is tailored to the project. Whether you’re working on a new build, refurbishment, restoration or modular construction site, our team will design a weatherproofing strategy that fits your unique structure and schedule.
If the weather is a potential risk to your programme, shrink-wrap weatherproofing is the perfect solution. Whether you need a short-term solution during a critical phase or long-term protection over winter, Tufcoat can help you stay one step ahead.
We are happy to discuss your project requirements and answer any other questions you may have.
If you send us your contact details by filling in this form, a member of the team will be in touch to find out more about your enquiry.
We look forward to speaking with you!