Lithuania’s climate is known for its cold winters, which typically halt construction work for at least three months. However, this year has shown a shift in both conditions and attitudes toward winter construction. An expert warns that failing to follow essential guidelines and manufacturers’ recommendations could double or even triple construction costs.

“The biggest challenge in winter construction is sub-zero temperatures, as most materials are not designed for use in the cold. Typically, construction work—especially facade and insulation installation—is recommended to stop when outdoor temperatures drop below 5°C. While new materials and technologies are becoming more resistant to cold, risks remain. Poorly executed winter construction can lead to significant financial losses and frustration,” says Dr. Darius Kalibatas, Associate Professor at the VILNIUS TECH Faculty of Civil Engineering, Department of Construction Management and Real Estate.

Follow the Key Rules

Reinforcement and concrete layers used in facades and insulation contain water. In freezing temperatures, this water solidifies, affecting material properties.

“If guidelines are ignored and work continues in sub-zero conditions, the damage becomes evident when temperatures rise. Walls may develop frost-like patches, indicating defects—if decorative plaster is applied over them, the walls will crumble, and the building’s lifespan will be compromised. All facade and insulation work should be done at temperatures no lower than 5°C,” Kalibatas explains.

According to the expert, modern solutions are emerging in the construction industry. For example, special additives can be mixed into concrete to enable work at sub-zero temperatures. However, finishing materials remain unsuitable for cold conditions—adhesives, for instance, freeze before they set, losing their function.

“Using conventional construction methods, winter work should be avoided. If construction must continue, specialized cold-resistant technologies are necessary. One option is covering the facade with plastic sheeting and using heaters to maintain working temperatures. While this adds to costs, it ensures quality results,” says Dr. Kalibatas.

Costs Could Double

With Lithuania’s winters becoming milder or even absent altogether, more construction projects continue throughout the cold season. However, this can be a costly mistake if daytime temperatures are mild but drop below freezing at night.

“Even if daytime temperatures are around 5°C, nighttime frost still affects materials. A structure may survive the winter, but instead of the 20-year lifespan promised by manufacturers, it may only last 10 years. It’s crucial to consider not only the working temperature but also whether the structure has frozen overnight,” warns Kalibatas.

The expert emphasizes that construction materials must always be stored according to manufacturer guidelines, regardless of the season. Another key factor is ensuring that both knowledge and technology align with manufacturer specifications.

“Ignoring essential rules can have serious consequences. I’ve seen construction projects halted during winter at stages where interruptions shouldn’t occur. In such cases, investing in heating the facade and completing the work is a better choice. Otherwise, facade layers may start to crumble and deteriorate, requiring costly repairs—sometimes two to three times the original expense,” he explains.

Materials That Withstand the Cold

During the cold season, when heating costs become a challenge, energy-efficient solutions are essential. A Lithuanian company specializing in innovative facade solutions has developed a system that allows for effective facade insulation and finishing—even in winter.

“We spent years studying facade material issues, analyzing factors that impact quality and durability. Our system eliminates the need for adhesives or screws, combining high-grade concrete with polystyrene or mineral wool for a strong bond. As a result, the panels are resistant to temperature fluctuations and can even be installed in sub-zero temperatures—specifically, down to -10°C,” explains Edvardas Račevskis, founder of Koderus.

This system allows facades to be installed twice as fast since insulation and finishing are done simultaneously. The panels are durable, easy to maintain, and available in various textures and colors, offering unique design possibilities.

In 2021, the “KODERUS 2IN1” facade panel was awarded the “Lithuanian Product of the Year” title and won the gold medal in the Lithuanian Confederation of Industrialists (LPK) competition.