Cost Overview of Building Supplies: September 2024
A New Landscape for Construction Firms
The construction industry faces a severe labor shortage, with 90% of contractors struggling to fill key roles, increasing costs and delaying projects. Despite wage increases and digital recruitment efforts, the lack of vocational training remains a deeper issue. AGC advocates for better education funding and immigration reforms to address long-term challenges. Optimism persists, as investments and stable interest rates may drive future growth.
Continue reading this article.
Manufacturing’s Growth Surge
U.S. manufacturing is booming, with $898 billion in investments fueled by the CHIPS and Science Act. Projects like Natron Energy’s $1.4 billion battery factory and Soulbrain TX’s $575 million semiconductor facility are transforming construction. Manufacturing construction spending has risen by 19.1%, and continued support from the CHIPS Act is expected to sustain this growth.
Continue reading this article.
Conferences and Expos to Attend
Several key conferences in late 2024, including Autodesk University (October 15-17) and Lean Construction Institute (October 22-25), focus on digital tools and lean methods. Events like Greenbuild (November 12-15) and Groundbreak (November 20-21) emphasize sustainability and digital innovation, making them essential for staying current in the industry.
Continue reading this article.
The Hidden Costs of Rushing Construction
Speed in construction is raising safety concerns as quick turnarounds risk mistakes and delayed maintenance worsens aging infrastructure. The National Council of Structural Engineers Associations warns that rushing projects compromises safety, while deferred repairs heighten risks. Experts call for updated building codes to address evolving environmental conditions.
Continue reading this article.
Conclusion
As we close out this edition of our newsletter, it’s clear that the construction industry continues to face a unique mix of challenges and opportunities. Labor shortages remain a critical issue, with the majority of contractors struggling to fill essential roles. Despite increased wages and a shift towards digital recruitment, the core problem remains a lack of vocational training—a long-term issue that needs attention from both policymakers and industry leaders. The surge in U.S. manufacturing, fueled by the CHIPS Act, is a bright spot. With nearly $900 billion in investments, it’s clear that this sector will be a key driver of construction growth. As prices for construction inputs begin to stabilize, it’s a promising sign that we might see a revival in projects that had been previously shelved. This economic shift presents opportunities for firms like ours to remain competitive and continue delivering excellence in high-impact sectors.
Additionally, it's important to remember that the push for speed in construction must never compromise safety or quality. The hidden costs of rushing projects remind us that our commitment to excellence and integrity is non-negotiable. As we look ahead, we must stay up-to-date on the building codes that ensure the safety and longevity of the structures we create, and prioritize the safety of the teams that create them.
One final request: are you attending any upcoming industry events? If so, please reach out and let our team know so we can be sure to say hello. I encourage all of you to take advantage of the upcoming conferences and expos, which are essential for staying at the forefront of innovation. Together, we can navigate this changing landscape and continue to build a future we can all be proud of.
Jeff Hall
President & CEO
Online
Get in Touch
Commodity
12 Month % Change
1 Month % Change
Softwood Lumber
-6.1
3.1
Hardwood Lumber
6.0
0.2
General Millworks
2.5
0.1
Soft Plywood Products
-7.1
0.7
Hot Rolled Steel
-8.7
-1.3
Copper Wire & Cable
7.7
-5.1
Power Wire & Cable
-3.2
0.9
Builder's Hardware
-0.9
0.0
Plumbing Fixtures
1.8
0.0
Furnaces and Heaters
1.9
0.0
Sheet Metal Products
0.9
-0.1
Electrical Lighting Fixtures
2.1
1.0
Nails
-9.2
-0.1
Major Appliances
1.2
1.9
Ready-Mix Concrete
4.2
-0.2
Asphalt Roofing & Siding
1.2
-1.2
Gypsum Products
4.2
0.0
Insulation
5.9
-0.2
Construction Input Costs Begin to Settle
Construction input prices have declined by 0.7%, signaling potential cost stabilization after months of uncertainty. ABC economist Anirban Basu suggests a broader economic shift may be coming, especially with possible interest rate cuts. Natural gas prices have dropped nearly 30%, which could revive shelved projects.
Continue reading this article.
20-City Average Cost Indexes, Wages, Prices
ENR publishes both a Construction Cost Index and Building Cost index that reports the average national price by surveying 20 major cities across the United States. These figures report the national average change of cost over the last month.
CONCRETE BLOCK
+1.3%
READY MIX CONCRETE
+0.4%
ASPHALT PAVING
-0.2%
PORTLAND CEMENT
+7.5%
ALUMINIUM SHEET
+0.3%
REINFORCING BARS
+4.0%
WIDE FLANGE
-0.4%
STAINLESS-STEEL SHEET
+0.3%
CORRUGATED-STEEL PIPE
+10.2%
DUCTILE-IRON PIPE
0.0%
PVC WATER PIPE
+1.4%
REINFORCED CONCRETE PIPE
+0.2%
GYPSUM WALLBOARD
-1.5%
PARTICLE BOARD
-2.2%
PLYWOOD
+1.1%
LUMBER
+1.1%
Sources
Paragon compiles the latest and most accurate information. It’s worth noting, some sources release data more or less frequently.
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Want the latest information on construction materials?
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Want the latest information on construction materials?
Subscribe to the Paragon Post
A New Landscape for Construction Firms
The construction industry faces a severe labor shortage, with 90% of contractors struggling to fill key roles, increasing costs and delaying projects. Despite wage increases and digital recruitment efforts, the lack of vocational training remains a deeper issue. AGC advocates for better education funding and immigration reforms to address long-term challenges. Optimism persists, as investments and stable interest rates may drive future growth.
Continue reading this article.
Manufacturing’s Growth Surge
U.S. manufacturing is booming, with $898 billion in investments fueled by the CHIPS and Science Act. Projects like Natron Energy’s $1.4 billion battery factory and Soulbrain TX’s $575 million semiconductor facility are transforming construction. Manufacturing construction spending has risen by 19.1%, and continued support from the CHIPS Act is expected to sustain this growth.
Continue reading this article.
Conferences and Expos to Attend
Several key conferences in late 2024, including Autodesk University (October 15-17) and Lean Construction Institute (October 22-25), focus on digital tools and lean methods. Events like Greenbuild (November 12-15) and Groundbreak (November 20-21) emphasize sustainability and digital innovation, making them essential for staying current in the industry.
Continue reading this article.
The Hidden Costs of Rushing Construction
Speed in construction is raising safety concerns as quick turnarounds risk mistakes and delayed maintenance worsens aging infrastructure. The National Council of Structural Engineers Associations warns that rushing projects compromises safety, while deferred repairs heighten risks. Experts call for updated building codes to address evolving environmental conditions.
Continue reading this article.
Conclusion
As we close out this edition of our newsletter, it’s clear that the construction industry continues to face a unique mix of challenges and opportunities. Labor shortages remain a critical issue, with the majority of contractors struggling to fill essential roles. Despite increased wages and a shift towards digital recruitment, the core problem remains a lack of vocational training—a long-term issue that needs attention from both policymakers and industry leaders. The surge in U.S. manufacturing, fueled by the CHIPS Act, is a bright spot. With nearly $900 billion in investments, it’s clear that this sector will be a key driver of construction growth. As prices for construction inputs begin to stabilize, it’s a promising sign that we might see a revival in projects that had been previously shelved. This economic shift presents opportunities for firms like ours to remain competitive and continue delivering excellence in high-impact sectors.
Additionally, it's important to remember that the push for speed in construction must never compromise safety or quality. The hidden costs of rushing projects remind us that our commitment to excellence and integrity is non-negotiable. As we look ahead, we must stay up-to-date on the building codes that ensure the safety and longevity of the structures we create, and prioritize the safety of the teams that create them.
One final request: are you attending any upcoming industry events? If so, please reach out and let our team know so we can be sure to say hello. I encourage all of you to take advantage of the upcoming conferences and expos, which are essential for staying at the forefront of innovation. Together, we can navigate this changing landscape and continue to build a future we can all be proud of.
Jeff Hall
President & CEO
Online
Online
Get in Touch
Get in Touch
Commodity
12 Month % Change
1 Month % Change
Softwood Lumber
-6.1
3.1
Hardwood Lumber
6.0
0.2
General Millworks
2.5
0.1
Soft Plywood Products
-7.1
0.7
Hot Rolled Steel
-8.7
-1.3
Copper Wire & Cable
7.7
-5.1
Power Wire & Cable
-3.2
0.9
Builder's Hardware
-0.9
0.0
Plumbing Fixtures
1.8
0.0
Furnaces and Heaters
1.9
0.0
Sheet Metal Products
0.9
-0.1
Electrical Lighting Fixtures
2.1
1.0
Nails
-9.2
-0.1
Major Appliances
1.2
1.9
Ready-Mix Concrete
4.2
-0.2
Asphalt Roofing & Siding
1.2
-1.2
Gypsum Products
4.2
0.0
Insulation
5.9
-0.2
Construction Input Costs Begin to Settle
Construction input prices have declined by 0.7%, signaling potential cost stabilization after months of uncertainty. ABC economist Anirban Basu suggests a broader economic shift may be coming, especially with possible interest rate cuts. Natural gas prices have dropped nearly 30%, which could revive shelved projects.
Continue reading this article.
20-City Average Cost Indexes, Wages, Prices
ENR publishes both a Construction Cost Index and Building Cost index that reports the average national price by surveying 20 major cities across the United States. These figures report the national average change of cost over the last month.
CONCRETE BLOCK
+1.3%
READY MIX CONCRETE
+0.4%
ASPHALT PAVING
-0.2%
PORTLAND CEMENT
+7.5%
ALUMINIUM SHEET
+0.3%
REINFORCING BARS
+4.0%
WIDE FLANGE
-0.4%
STAINLESS-STEEL SHEET
+0.3%
CORRUGATED-STEEL PIPE
+10.2%
DUCTILE-IRON PIPE
0.0%
PVC WATER PIPE
+1.4%
REINFORCED CONCRETE PIPE
+0.2%
GYPSUM WALLBOARD
-1.5%
PARTICLE BOARD
-2.2%
PLYWOOD
+1.1%
LUMBER
+1.1%
Sources
Paragon compiles the latest and most accurate information. It’s worth noting, some sources release data more or less frequently.
Cost Overview of Building Supplies: September 2024
A New Landscape for Construction Firms
The construction industry faces a severe labor shortage, with 90% of contractors struggling to fill key roles, increasing costs and delaying projects. Despite wage increases and digital recruitment efforts, the lack of vocational training remains a deeper issue. AGC advocates for better education funding and immigration reforms to address long-term challenges. Optimism persists, as investments and stable interest rates may drive future growth.
Manufacturing’s Growth Surge
U.S. manufacturing is booming, with $898 billion in investments fueled by the CHIPS and Science Act. Projects like Natron Energy’s $1.4 billion battery factory and Soulbrain TX’s $575 million semiconductor facility are transforming construction. Manufacturing construction spending has risen by 19.1%, and continued support from the CHIPS Act is expected to sustain this growth.
Conferences and Expos to Attend
Several key conferences in late 2024, including Autodesk University (October 15-17) and Lean Construction Institute (October 22-25), focus on digital tools and lean methods. Events like Greenbuild (November 12-15) and Groundbreak (November 20-21) emphasize sustainability and digital innovation, making them essential for staying current in the industry.
The Hidden Costs of Rushing Construction
Speed in construction is raising safety concerns as quick turnarounds risk mistakes and delayed maintenance worsens aging infrastructure. The National Council of Structural Engineers Associations warns that rushing projects compromises safety, while deferred repairs heighten risks. Experts call for updated building codes to address evolving environmental conditions.
Sources
Paragon compiles the latest and most accurate information. It’s worth noting, some sources release data more or less frequently.
Commodity
12 Month % Change
1 Month % Change
Softwood Lumber
-6.1
3.1
Hardwood Lumber
6.0
0.2
General Millworks
2.5
0.1
Soft Plywood Products
-7.1
0.7
Hot Rolled Steel
-8.7
-1.3
Copper Wire & Cable
7.7
-5.1
Power Wire & Cable
-3.2
0.9
Builder's Hardware
-0.9
0.0
Plumbing Fixtures
1.8
0.0
Furnaces and Heaters
1.9
0.0
Sheet Metal Products
0.9
-0.1
Electrical Lighting Fixtures
2.1
1.0
Nails
-9.2
-0.1
Major Appliances
1.2
1.9
Ready-Mix Concrete
4.2
-0.2
Asphalt Roofing & Siding
1.2
-1.2
Gypsum Products
4.2
0.0
Insulation
5.9
-0.2
Construction Input Costs Begin to Settle
Construction input prices have declined by 0.7%, signaling potential cost stabilization after months of uncertainty. ABC economist Anirban Basu suggests a broader economic shift may be coming, especially with possible interest rate cuts. Natural gas prices have dropped nearly 30%, which could revive shelved projects.
Continue reading.
20-City Average Cost Indexes, Wages, Prices
ENR publishes both a Construction Cost Index and Building Cost index that reports the average national price by surveying 20 major cities across the United States. These figures report the national average change of cost over the last month.
CONCRETE BLOCK
+1.3%
READY MIX CONCRETE
+0.4%
ASPHALT PAVING
-0.2%
PORTLAND CEMENT
+7.5%
ALUMINIUM SHEET
+0.3%
REINFORCING BARS
+4.0%
WIDE FLANGE
-0.4%
STAINLESS-STEEL SHEET
+0.3%
CORRUGATED STEEL PIPE
+10.2%
DUCTILE-IRON PIPE
0.0%
PVC WATER PIPE
+1.4%
REINFORCED CONCRETE PIPE
+0.2%
GYPSUM WALLBOARD
-1.5%
PARTICLE BOARD
-2.2%
PLYWOOD
+1.1%
LUMBER
+1.1%
Cost Overview of Building Supplies: September 2024
Conclusion
As we close out this edition of our newsletter, it’s clear that the construction industry continues to face a unique mix of challenges and opportunities. Labor shortages remain a critical issue, with the majority of contractors struggling to fill essential roles. Despite increased wages and a shift towards digital recruitment, the core problem remains a lack of vocational training—a long-term issue that needs attention from both policymakers and industry leaders. The surge in U.S. manufacturing, fueled by the CHIPS Act, is a bright spot. With nearly $900 billion in investments, it’s clear that this sector will be a key driver of construction growth. As prices for construction inputs begin to stabilize, it’s a promising sign that we might see a revival in projects that had been previously shelved. This economic shift presents opportunities for firms like ours to remain competitive and continue delivering excellence in high-impact sectors.
Additionally, it's important to remember that the push for speed in construction must never compromise safety or quality. The hidden costs of rushing projects remind us that our commitment to excellence and integrity is non-negotiable. As we look ahead, we must stay up-to-date on the building codes that ensure the safety and longevity of the structures we create, and prioritize the safety of the teams that create them.
One final request: are you attending any upcoming industry events? If so, please reach out and let our team know so we can be sure to say hello. I encourage all of you to take advantage of the upcoming conferences and expos, which are essential for staying at the forefront of innovation. Together, we can navigate this changing landscape and continue to build a future we can all be proud of.
Jeff Hall
President & CEO
Jeff Hall
President & CEO
Online
Get in Touch