From gut feeling to facts: How Arkil uses digital weather data to ensure project profitability

In the high-risk world of district heating projects and major construction contracts, the weather is more than just a topic of conversation. It is a critical economic variable. For Arkil, one of Denmark’s leading companies specialising in the installation of plastic and steel district heating pipes in the ground, the difference between a ‘light rainy day’ and a day with documented adverse weather conditions can be worth hundreds of thousands of kroner.

Historically, the industry has relied on data from national weather stations, such as the Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI), which may be located many kilometres away from the construction site. But with today’s climate, weather phenomena such as downpours are incredibly localised. It is simply no longer good enough to use data from a station located far away, because you lose the record of what actually happened at that specific location. This discrepancy between general data and local reality has previously led to unnecessary conflicts and negotiations based on ‘best guesses’. But by placing Cordulus’ weather stations directly on their construction sites, Arkil has replaced subjective estimates with indisputable evidence.

Transparency adds value during the implementation phase  

For Palle Lumby, project manager at Arkil, the value of hyperlocal weather data becomes apparent in the final stages of project commissioning. It is crucial to agree on weather clauses during the completion process, as these agreements determine who bears the financial responsibility when the weather brings the project to a standstill. In the past, these meetings could be difficult, but having a dedicated source of truth changes the whole dynamic.

“It sends a message of openness and transparency. It builds credibility. Everyone has access to the same data as a basis for their decisions. We don’t just rely on our gut feeling about the weather.”

It has now become a habit for Arkil to bring a printout of the local weather conditions to every construction meeting. The level of detail makes a big impression on both clients and partners. As Palle Lumby puts it: “It just looks so professional.” When the data is presented clearly and professionally, it simply puts an end to the typical questions and disagreements about weather conditions.

By establishing this level of trust early on in the process, Arkil ensures that the project gets off to a fact-based start. This professional transparency not only makes meetings run more smoothly; it also safeguards the project budget when delays inevitably arise.

Protects the bottom line in the event of uncertain weather

The financial implications of accurate weather documentation are significant. In the construction industry, a lack of documentation for weather-related delays often leads to substantial daily fines and uncompensated costs on the construction site. Without a local station, a contractor is often forced to compromise because they cannot prove the exact conditions that have halted work.

Palle Lumby cites an example where the consequences become clear. Imagine a contractor arguing for 30 days’ allowance for adverse weather, but the client only accepts 10. They might end up agreeing on 20 days based on a gut feeling, and as a result, the contractor loses 10 days’ legitimate extension.  

“In this case, we would face daily fines instead of a 10-day extension, which would amount to an expense of DKK 200,000 in fines alone. On top of that, there are also various site costs. There’s a lot of money at stake here.”

As the Cordulus weather station records precise conditions directly from the construction site, Arkil no longer needs to take risks on days with adverse weather. They can demonstrate exactly why work was halted, ensuring that the project’s finances remain intact. And the shift from gut feelings to fact-based decisions actually extends from the project office right out to the crew’s day-to-day work.

The day-to-day planning of work

In addition to its legal and financial value, the weather station has also become an important tool for day-to-day logistics on the construction site. This is particularly true for weather-dependent tasks such as asphalt paving, where temperature and humidity are crucial factors for quality. Relying on a station 30 km away is a risk that can lead to a waste of materials and man-hours.

Arkil now uses these hyperlocal weather forecasts to plan its daily work schedule with pinpoint local accuracy. They can see exactly when a weather window opens or closes at their construction site, enabling them to coordinate projects and staff more efficiently. The station itself is mobile and follows the team: once a project is completed, it is moved to the next site to provide its digital record from day one.

This level of planning has transformed the way the team works. The technology is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’ feature, but a fundamental part of their workflow. Palle Lumby concludes:

“To be honest, I can’t understand why more people in our industry don’t have one. It’s simply become part of our daily lives.”