Construction Activity and Materials Costs Moving Higher

Buildings Magazine reports that non-residential construction activity is up 2% from last year.  Most sectors appear to be on the rebound except public works.  Overall commodity increases are running slightly higher at 3% on average, with steel and carpet (6%) and paint (8%) leading the way.  Lumber and brick are trending down, plywood remains essentially flat.


One can make one's own determination on the future trajectory of this chart.  Some will interpret it as a sign of gathering turn around momentum while others will suggest that the pull back in government spending in the public works sector is likely to create future drag.  Time will tell.


For now, however, activity is up and price increases appear moderate.  Those, at least, are positive signs.