Trendlines Newsletter- February 2021

Data recently released by the United States Geological Service shows 114,280 tons of cement were shipped to the state during the month of November 2020. Cement shipments to the state grew by 14.5% over the same period in 2019. The month marks the largest increase over the same period in 2019. The total also represents the greatest tonnage shipped to the state in November since Trendlines was established.

Looking to ready mix volumes, we estimate 423,179 cubic yards of concrete were placed during the month. The volume represents the fifth highest estimated yardage for the year. For the year, the state is still lagging 2019 totals by 2.3%.

Examining the national construction indexes, The Home Builder Sentiment for January in the South currently stands at 82. The figure did not change from the month of January. Anything above 50 forecast a growth in the homebuilding market. The AIA Billing Index, however continues to show weakness in the commercial section. The current billing index stands at 44.9. This is a slight improvement over last month’s 42.3, but still below the important 50 threshold.