Pune: Extreme Heat Triggers Cracks in Walls, Ceilings as Temperatures Exceed 40°C

Pune: The relentless heatwave sweeping across Pune is visibly damaging the city’s infrastructure. With temperatures consistently crossing 40 degrees Celsius, an increase in cracks on walls and ceilings is being observed as buildings struggle under extreme thermal stress.

The phenomenon is particularly pronounced in older constructions made with cement-based materials. These structures expand during the day’s intense heat and contract during cooler nights, leading to the formation of cracks. Experts in architecture, structural engineering, and interior design note that the use of heat-conductive materials and inadequate ventilation further worsens the situation.

In residential and commercial projects, especially those located in areas like Mulshi, the intense heat has created additional challenges. Rising temperatures affect the application of synthetic paint materials by making working conditions uncomfortable and causing the materials to release fumes. To maintain quality and ensure worker safety, cooled environments or night-time work schedules are increasingly being adopted.

Tile installation is another area impacted by the soaring heat. Without proper water curing, tiles risk developing cracks due to insufficient moisture. Landscaping efforts have also been disrupted, as the dry and hardened soil complicates digging and accurate assessment of soil conditions. As a result, many projects are prioritizing hardscape elements until temperatures ease during the monsoon.

The occurrence of wall cracks is not limited to older buildings; newer constructions are also experiencing similar problems. The repeated cycle of expansion during the day and contraction at night exerts structural stress, leading to visible cracks at corners, edges, and slabs.

In areas like Koregaon Park, the recent removal of trees has intensified the heat problem. Trees previously offered natural cooling to buildings, and their absence has made concrete structures heat up rapidly. Concrete is known for its high heat absorption and retention, accelerating wear and stress on building materials.

Modern structures, often built with concrete, steel, and bricks, are particularly vulnerable. These materials expand in hot weather, and without sufficient flexibility in design, such as properly installed expansion joints, the accumulated stress manifests as cracks. Glass windows can also suffer damage if their frames do not allow for sufficient movement during temperature changes.

The ongoing extreme heat poses a significant challenge for construction practices in Pune, highlighting the urgent need for designs and materials better suited to withstand fluctuating and extreme temperatures.