Prices are surging for the raw materials used to build American homes. ... Prices for granite, insulation, concrete blocks and common brick have all pushed to records in 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistic's producer-price index, which measures the change in prices that producers receive for their output.

Why are building materials so expensive 2021?

Lumber and plywood prices are so high now because of the short-run dynamics of demand and supply. Wood demand shot up in the summer of pandemic. Many homeowners were stuck at home, unable to vacation.

Is brick cheaper than wood 2021?

While wood is more affordable than brick, according to a 2017 study conducted by RSMeans and the Brick Industry Association, the national average total construction cost of a clay brick-sided home is only two percent more than wood and fiber cement. So it's cheaper, but not by much.