How to Speed Up Drying Times on Construction Projects

In the construction industry, drying times play a crucial role in determining project timelines and overall efficiency. Delays caused by prolonged drying processes can lead to increased costs, extended schedules, and dissatisfied clients.

Quicker drying times not only enhance project efficiency but also contribute to better quality finishes and much fewer complications. In this blog, we’ll explore what influences drying time and some effective strategies for speeding up the process, ensuring your construction projects run smoothly and on schedule.

What Influences Drying Time?

Drying times refer to how long it takes for materials to lose moisture and reach a usable state. There are several factors that can influence drying times, including:

Humidity:

High humidity levels slow down the evaporation process which prolongs drying times. In environments with elevated moisture in the air, it becomes harder for materials to release their moisture, which can result in longer wait times before they can be worked on.

Temperature:

Warmer temperatures generally increase evaporation rates. The higher the temperature, the more moisture air can hold, which accelerates drying. In contrast, cooler temperatures can lead to longer drying times, making temperature management critical during construction.

Airflow:

Having adequate airflow is vital for accelerating the drying process. Air circulation helps to carry away moisture-laden air and replace it with drier air, facilitating quicker evaporation. Stagnant air can trap humidity around the materials and delay the drying process.

Material type:

Different construction materials have varying moisture retention capabilities. For example, concrete and plaster retain moisture differently, which affects their drying times. Understanding the properties of specific materials and drying times can assist with the planning process.

Surface area:

The surface area exposed to air can impact drying times. Materials with larger surface areas will generally dry faster than those with smaller exposed areas. Ensuring that materials are spread out properly can help improve drying efficiency.

Strategies for Accelerating Drying Times

Let’s explore some effective strategies to expedite drying times:

1. Dehumidifiers

One of the most effective ways to reduce drying times is by using dehumidifiers. At Andrews Sykes, our dehumidifier hire units are designed to remove excess moisture from the air, significantly speeding up the drying process for materials like plaster, paint, and concrete.

2. Enhanced airflow:

Improving airflow around drying materials can make a noticeable difference in drying times. Simple methods, such as using fans or opening windows and doors, can facilitate air circulation, helping to dissipate moisture more quickly.

3. Temperature control:

Temperature control is another critical factor in expediting drying times. Warmer air holds more moisture and therefore accelerates evaporation. Our heater hire solutions work to raise temperatures in enclosed spaces, promoting faster drying.

4. Moisture Barrier Techniques

Implementing moisture barrier techniques can significantly impact drying times as well. Using moisture barriers during construction, such as polyethylene sheeting or liquid-applied membranes helps prevent moisture from penetrating materials, allowing them to dry more effectively.

How We Cut Screed Drying Times for a Major Construction Project

A contractor working on an exciting upgrade to a sports complex in Cambridgeshire encountered significant drying challenges with the screed, which traditionally takes a lengthy seven days per centimetre to cure.

While they initially relied on DE190 electric heater hire units from Andrews Sykes, it quickly became clear that they needed a more robust solution for the large main hall. We swiftly recommended our FH2000 indirect fired heater, which delivered high volumes of warm air and significantly reduce the ‘walk on’ time by several days while ensuring the screed remained intact.

Read the full case study here to learn more about how we successfully kept the construction project on track.

Stay on Track with Efficient and Quality Drying Solutions

Speeding up drying times on construction projects is crucial for enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. By understanding the factors that influence drying times and implementing effective strategies, you can drastically enhance your project outcomes.

If you’re looking to optimise drying times on your construction site, get in touch with Andrews Sykes, or why not get a hire quote today? Let us help you create the ideal conditions for a successful project!