October Materials Costs Decline

All four major materials reported declines in prices in October. Steel prices dropped for the second consecutive month, decreasing by 4.2% from September to October.

For the first time in 10 months, asphalt prices also declined, falling 4.0% from the previous month. Lumber prices decreased by 4.7% from September to October and concrete prices experienced a slight 0.2 % reduction. During the last year, steel prices have increased 34.3% and asphalt prices have grown 45.5%. Concrete prices in the last year grew by 4.1%. Lumber prices have declined by 7.1%. Source: Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. PCA provides this information to aid in the promotion of concrete and cement-based products.