Copper, Lumber Contribute to Rising Construction Costs

Copper, lumber contribute to rising construction costs

U.S. construction costs rose 2.7% in Q2 and 5.4% year-over-year, driven by higher lumber and copper prices, as tariffs and trade policy add uncertainty.

Copper, lumber drive rising construction costs

Construction costs nationally rose 2.7 percent in the second quarter of this year as commodities, including lumber and copper, grew more expensive, according to a national cost index. In Brief: National construction costs rose 2.7% in Q2 and 5.4% year-over-year Lumber prices climbed 30% in two years, copper up 20% Tariffs on Canadian lumber hit 35%, raising contractor concerns Data center construction drives demand in Oregon and beyond Cos…