Commodities Watch


Material: Asphalt

Highlights:

  • After 11 consecutive monthly increases, totaling 8.7%, construction commodities price inflation fell by a small 0.1% in June.
  • Asphalt prices rose 4.0% in June from May and now are up 6.3% since June 2010.

    Quote:

    "Asphalt has a long history that dates back to around 6000 BC when it was used in Sumeria in building ships. The first use of asphalt as a surface pavement is thought to have occurred in Babylon sometime between 625 to 604 BC. Asphalt was first used in this country around 1870. Today, it is the paving surface for approximately ninety-four percent of our paved roads and highways. Asphalt also remains a popular surface for parking lots, driveways, walking trails and bike paths.” – Vulcan Materials Company, Asphalt Paving Materials


    Graph: Asphalt Felts & Coatings Pricing

    Asphalt Felts & Coatings PPI Commodity Price Index

    Material: Insulation

    Highlights:

    • After 11 consecutive monthly increases, totaling 8.7%, construction commodities price inflation fell by a small 0.1% in June.
    • Pricing for insulation materials is up 1.7% from May, the index is up 8.6% since June 2010.

      Quote:

      “The thickness of an insulating material isn't the only factor in determining its effectiveness. Some materials trap air more effectively than others, and produce the same insulation value with less material thickness. One inch of mineral wool insulation, for instance, has the same ‘heat resistance’ abilities as 46 inches of concrete.” – Bonneville Power Administration, About Insulation


      Graph: Insulation Materials Pricing

      Insulation Materials PPI Commodity Price Index