On the Mainland, renovation and construction are planned around the seasons in consideration of the variables in the weather. For example the Florida and Louisiana Gulf Coast region are susceptible to hurricanes in the summer months. Maui’s summer weather is beautiful but is also a consideration for builders as well as vacationers.
Often vacationers prefer to visit Maui during the “shoulder seasons” of April through May and September through November, but really anytime is a good time weather wise for a lovely tropical vacation.
Maui is different in that there are really only two “seasons”: summer and winter. Both seasons have consistent and moderate temperatures that make construction a year-round endeavor. Maui’s summer season is the dry season and is April–October. But even Maui’s summer weather can sometimes impact construction. You will want to evaluate the weather in the summer in your building or vacation planning.
Maui’s Summer Weather For Construction
Wherever you build, the climate is one of the most important factors in planning. This includes materials that are appropriate for that location and heating and cooling systems, and in some cases, green design. For those considering building or remodeling, Maui’s summer weather is very reliable and should only be concerning for an occasional rainy day. Maui temperature is consistently between 75-85° Fahrenheit (23-29°C) throughout the year. The majority of the rain that Maui receives, falls in the winter months in November through March.
Hurricane and tropical storms are historically rare events on Maui, but it’s still important to be prepared for storms if you visit during hurricane season which is typically June through November.
Hawaii doesn’t experience large fluctuations in temperature and Maui has average temperatures between May and August that range from highs of 85°F to 88°F, with lows averaging 67°F to 72°F. The month of August is generally the hottest month with an average daily high temperature of 80°F. Fortunately the heat is not so extreme as to make it difficult to work outdoors. Though rare, the winter months see more rain and occasionally may have flash flooding. Its important for builders to be well aware of unusual rainfall in the summer that may cause a flash flood situation.
The Swells
Just a few months ago, a rare huge swell crashed into Maui and Hawai’i. This swell sent 20+ foot waves of water into homes, businesses, and even a wedding in Kailua-Kona that was five minutes away from starting. Don’t worry – the cake was saved and the wedding and reception went on as planned.
Lahaina saw coastal flooding, and Kauai had road closures. Witnesses posted videos of the waves crashing ashore over stone retaining walls and flooding condos. Many beaches were closed due to safety concerns.
Summer swells are the result of storms in the southern hemisphere, where it’s actually wintertime. The storms occur in Australia and New Zealand, and the swells travel northeast reaching Maui and the state of Hawaii with some being large enough to cause damage.
Obviously these swells can be disruptive to construction projects.
How Weather Affects Construction
Summer weather can impact a construction or remodeling project by bringing moisture, thunderstorms, and heat.
• Moisture can cause:
o Rust in metal components
o Mold in wood, sheetrock, and other building materials
o Cause glue and other adhesives degrade
o Bricks to absorb moisture and release it later
• Thunderstorms can introduce
o Rain
o High winds
o Hail or airborne debris
This can cause dented metal, broken glass, and general damage to building materials.
• Heat can lead to:
o Heatstroke in workers
o Expansion of building materials that may lead to incorrect joints and other errors
o Bricks becoming brittle
o Paint discoloration as well as cracks and other problems
o Improper installation of concrete if insufficient water is used
Any one of these weather variables can cause delays in a project for days or weeks. In general Maui’s summer weather is hospitable. Yet it is always important to work with a team who knows and understands building on Maui. This would mean including on your team, the professionals from Pro Draft. Pro Draft Inc. is an innovative, high-production drafting house located in Maui, Hawaii.
Let Pro Draft Design Your Next Building Project
Pro Draft has been helping bring ideas to life in Maui for 30 years. We’re ready to help with drawings, interior design, “green design” with LEED certification, project management, and expediting of permits.
We can help with architectural drafting, drawings, blueprints, and permits. We work with architects, interior designers, contractors, realtors, homeowners, and commercial project builders. We look forward to working with you, no matter the weather!
Call Pro Draft today to get started at (808) 579-9050 or 1-800-499-4699 from the Mainland
