A prefabricated, temporary shelter consisting of a tubular steel frame covered by a heavy-duty, waterproof plastic or canvas tarp. Originally a brand name, the word is used generically on job sites for any temporary hoop house erected to protect materials, vehicles, or workers from winter weather. They are typically anchored with concrete blocks or ground stakes to resist high winds.
Set up the tempo over the driveway so the masons can keep working through the snowstorm tomorrow.
Make sure you anchor a tempo properly with heavy weights or deep stakes, as the fabric cover acts like a massive sail during winter windstorms.
Related terms
Hoarding
A temporary, solid perimeter fence erected around a construction site to protect the public and secure materials.
Building site
The designated physical land area where construction activities take place.
Scaffold
A temporary elevated framework used to support workers and materials during construction.