January sees spike in construction materials costs
Prices for most materials used in construction increased in January, according to data analyzed by the Associated General Contractors of America.
The overall producer price index for construction materials rose 0.6 percent in January, fueled by a 7.4 percent jump in the price of gypsum products; and a 2.4 percent increase for lumber and plywood. Cement prices increased 2 percent, insulation materials went up 1.5 percent, and copper and steel both increased 1.2 percent.