Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Ilystics weather delay estimation

Getting Started

What is Ilystics?
Ilystics is a weather intelligence platform designed specifically for construction subcontractors. We combine 10 years of historical weather data with soil science to predict realistic weather delay days for your projects—helping you bid smarter and document delays for claims.
How accurate are the estimates?
Our estimates are based on a rolling 10-year historical average from NOAA/Open-Meteo weather stations combined with scientifically-validated soil drying formulas. While no prediction is perfect, our methodology provides realistic averages that align with industry experience. Actual conditions may vary based on specific site factors.
What data sources do you use?
We use authoritative sources including:
  • Weather Data: Open-Meteo Archive API, NOAA, ECMWF
  • Soil Data: USGS/NRCS soil surveys
  • Methodology: Geotechnical engineering principles for soil drainage
Is there a free plan?
Yes! You can calculate anticipated weather delays for any US jobsite as often as you like, free, with no account. Downloading the contract-ready AIA A201 exhibit PDF just takes an email (one exhibit per day as a guest). Upgrade to Project Protection for unlimited exhibits, advanced geotechnical parameters, and project tracking.

Using the Estimate Tool

How do I generate an estimate?
It's simple:
  • Enter your project's ZIP code
  • Select the predominant soil type
  • Choose your project start and end dates
  • Click "Generate Estimate" to download your PDF
Logged-in users can also set advanced parameters like site gradient and exposure.
What soil types are supported?
We support various soil classifications:
  • Clay: 4.0 days drying time (Heavy, high water retention)
  • Silt: 3.0 days drying time (Moderate drainage)
  • Mixed: 2.5 days drying time (Standard baseline)
  • Loam: 2.0 days drying time (Average drainage)
  • Sand: 1.0 day drying time (Fast-draining granular)
  • Rock: 0.5 days drying time (Near-instant runoff)
Why does soil type matter?
Generic weather apps only track rain—but a heavy rain on Saturday might not delay work on Monday if you're on sandy soil. Clay sites, however, could remain muddy for days. Our soil-specific logic calculates realistic drying times so your delay estimates match real-world site conditions.
What do the gradient settings mean?
Site gradient affects drainage speed:
  • Flat (0-2%): Water pools, 1.4x longer drying
  • Moderate (2-5%): Normal drainage, baseline drying
  • Steep (>5%): Fast runoff, 0.8x faster drying
Can I use estimates in contracts?
Yes! Our PDF reports are designed to serve as "Anticipated Weather Delay" exhibits in construction contracts. They include methodology documentation, data sources, and professional formatting. However, please note that Ilystics provides estimation tools only—we recommend having your contract language reviewed by legal counsel.
How does the Saturation Logic (v3.0) work?
Our updated Saturation Engine tracks soil moisture levels over time. Unlike simple filters, it "remembers" heavy rainfall. If a site becomes saturated with 2.0" of rain on Monday, a small 0.1" sprinkle on Tuesday won't reset the status—it knows the soil is still water-logged from the previous major event. This provides a much more realistic prediction of when site trafficability will truly recover.

Daily Logs & Project Tracking

Why should I log daily site conditions?
Daily logs create a permanent record of site conditions that's invaluable for:
  • Documenting weather-related delays for claims
  • Providing evidence in disputes
  • Meeting contract documentation requirements
  • Identifying patterns in site accessibility
Can I edit logs after saving?
Yes, you can click on any previously logged day in the calendar to view and edit the entry. Changes are saved with a timestamp for audit purposes.

Account & Billing

How do I upgrade my plan?
Billing management is coming soon! Currently, all users have access to core features. Contact sales@ilystics.com for enterprise pricing or early access to Pro features.
Is my data secure?
Yes. All data is encrypted in transit (HTTPS) and we follow security best practices. You can export all your data at any time from Settings, and we offer GDPR-compliant data deletion upon request.
How do I delete my account?
Navigate to Settings → scroll to "Danger Zone" → click "Delete My Account." This action is permanent and will remove all your projects, logs, and account data.

Legal & Liability

Is Ilystics a substitute for expert testimony?
No. Ilystics is an estimation and documentation tool—not a replacement for professional meteorologists, geotechnical engineers, or legal experts. Our reports can support claims but should be used alongside professional judgment and expert opinion when needed.
Who owns the data I enter?
You do. Your project data, logs, and generated reports belong to you. We don't sell user data to third parties. See our Privacy Policy for complete details.

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