The unyielding heat has started to leave noticeable marks, with temperatures consistently exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Architects and structural engineers have observed a rise in cracks in walls and ceilings as buildings struggle to cope with extreme thermal stress.
Older structures, especially those built with traditional cement-based materials, are exhibiting concerning signs of damage. Experts indicate that the cycle of expansion during hot days and contraction during cooler nights is accelerating deterioration. This issue, once uncommon, is now increasingly frequent due to worsening climate conditions. Buildings made from cement-based materials are facing significant stress as they expand in the daytime heat and contract at night.
This ongoing cycle of thermal changes leads to visible damage, with cracks forming throughout the structures. Such problems are becoming more common in buildings lacking proper ventilation or those made with heat-conductive materials, which worsen the impact of temperature fluctuations. “The soaring temperatures this summer have already begun to inflict noticeable damage at some of our older sites. We are witnessing a growing number of cracks in the walls and ceilings as the thermal shifts take their toll,” remarked the owner of Quickk Solutions Interior and Renovation Services.
This escalating issue underscores the necessity for improved construction methods and materials capable of enduring extreme weather patterns. For many architects, the core problem lies in the inherent fragility of modern building materials like concrete, steel, and brick when subjected to prolonged heat. While these materials are robust, they are susceptible to expansion and contraction with changing temperatures. As these materials shift, they exert considerable stress on the structure, resulting in cracks in walls, ceilings, and windows. Glass windows are especially vulnerable, as they can expand with heat, risking breakage if the frames are not adequately designed.
In taller buildings, thermal expansion can cause significant cracking, especially at corners and joints where expansion joints may be inadequate or entirely absent. Experts stress that the increase in these structural issues underscores the need for better urban planning. To alleviate the adverse effects of rising temperatures, there is a growing demand for sustainable and climate-responsive construction methods. Buildings must be designed to withstand thermal stress, using materials that can effectively manage temperature fluctuations.
Developers aiming to future-proof their structures against worsening heatwaves should focus on key elements such as insulation, proper ventilation, and eco-friendly building practices. The current heatwave serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to adapt urban infrastructure to our evolving climate. As cities like Pune and others in India face more severe weather patterns, ensuring the long-term durability of buildings through innovative, climate-responsive design is essential. With global temperatures increasing, it is clear that urban infrastructure must adapt to these challenges, fostering a shift towards more sustainable and climate-conscious construction methods.
(Newsroom staff only edited this story for style from a syndicated feed)
