If you’ve been in the trade for a while, you’ll know that rising material costs in construction are nothing new but in recent years, the increases have been sharper, faster and harder to predict. From plaster and insulation to fuel and aggregates, prices have risen across the board, leaving many contractors feeling the pinch.
So how can you protect your business, your profits and your reputation when the cost of materials keeps climbing? Here’s a breakdown of practical strategies to help you stay competitive without cutting corners.
Before tackling the problem, it helps to know what’s behind it.
The increase in the cost of construction materials comes down to a few key factors:
Global supply chain disruptions – Delays in shipping, raw material shortages, and international demand have driven up prices.
Energy costs – The rising cost of fuel and electricity affects everything from manufacturing to transport.
Inflation and demand surges – A post-pandemic boom in building projects has outpaced supply, pushing prices even higher.
Keeping an eye on market trends and supplier updates can help you plan your purchases more strategically such as buying before a predicted price spike or exploring bulk order discounts. Plus, check out our great range of consumable here.
Accurate, flexible planning is key in unpredictable times. If you haven’t reviewed your project pricing model recently, now’s the time.
Build in contingencies – Include a small percentage buffer in quotes to absorb potential material cost fluctuations.
Communicate clearly with clients – Transparency about rising material costs in construction helps manage expectations and prevents disputes.
Use digital tools – Estimating software can help you track real-time price changes and update quotes efficiently.
Being upfront and prepared keeps your projects running smoothly and your reputation solid.
When materials cost more, every bit of waste matters. Improving on-site efficiency can offset price increases and protect your margins.
Invest in better machinery – Reliable, efficient equipment reduces waste, speeds up work, and improves application consistency. For example, a modern render or screed pump ensures precise material use with minimal waste. Read our blog here for more insightful knowledge on top quality machinery.
Train your team – Skilled operators can make a big difference in using materials effectively and reducing costly mistakes.
Maintain your equipment – Regular servicing prevents breakdowns and inefficiency. Preventative maintenance can save far more than it costs. Check out our blog on this here.
It’s worth rethinking where and how you source your supplies. Building long-term relationships with reliable suppliers like CES Hire can often lead to better rates, faster delivery, and trusted advice.
In some cases, alternative materials might perform just as well at a lower cost. For instance:
Switching from traditional plaster to machine-applied renders can save both time and material.
Using pre-mixed or liquid screeds can cut labour costs while providing a high-quality finish.
Speak to your equipment provider, we’re always happy to discuss options that suit your specific projects and budget. At CES Hire, we also provide tailored equipment finance solutions to support your business needs. Find out more on our website here, and feel free to contact us if you need further information.
When margins are tight, it’s tempting to look for “budget” solutions. But short-term savings can quickly disappear when downtime, repairs, or inefficiency strike.
The most successful contractors are those who invest wisely in reliable machines, preventative maintenance, and the right tools for the job. Think of it as a long-term investment in your business reputation and capacity to deliver quality results. As the saying goes, “Buy cheap, buy twice.” Read our blog here for more information on this.
The rising cost of construction materials may be beyond your control, but how you respond to it isn’t.
By planning ahead, improving efficiency, and investing in quality equipment, you can keep your projects profitable even when prices fluctuate.
If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade machinery, improve efficiency, or plan smarter for the months ahead, our team of experts can offer practical advice tailored to your business.