Warm weather helping construction business

WEST TERRE HAUTE, Ind. - You don't usually see people doing construction outside in January. But then again, this hasn't been a usual January.

In fact, for Brian Cottom, it's been a first.

"In 23 years, this is the first time we've ever called employees back in January," said Brian.

Brian runs Woodco Walls, building foundations and pouring concrete to make homes. He says the weather, which has been as much as 20 degrees above average some days, is helping his business during what should be a slowdown.

"Typically our work season is about nine or ten months long, so whatever we get out of mid December, January, and mid-February is a big bonus."

This warm weather isn't just helping Brian and his employees, it's also saving you money.

"The average cost in the winter is about 10-percent more. Right now, we're only running about 5-percent more."

If you're doing a big project, this 5-percent can really add up.

In addition, the extra work will trickle down to others in construction.

Framers, roofers, electricians, and drywallers all depend on people who form foundations. The more buildings they get done, they more work others will have when the weather gets cold.

"It's not always the amount of work we have, it's the weather we have to do it in."

With the warm temperatures, this season's weather has been something Brian and his crew enjoy.

"They're really loving this."