Trendlines Statewide Monthly Construction Data-August 2025

Alabama Cement Shipments See Big Drop in May

Data recently released by the United States Geological Service shows cement shipments declined by 15.9% in May 2025 compared to the same month in 2024. The state has now seen double-digit declines in three of the first five months. We estimate 462.979 yards of concrete were placed during the month. Yardage for the first five months of 2025 is 5.4% lower than the first five months of 2024.

Examining industry economic reports, the University of Alabama’s Center for Real Estate June report shows home building permits are off 9.8% compared to the first six months of 2024. With a large percentage of concrete frequently used in residential applications, it is no surprise concrete usage is off. Looking to the NAHB builder sentiment report for August, the number now sits at 32. This is a one-point drop from July. Until interest rates fall, we are likely to see a continued softening in home construction. The AIA billing index also softened in August to 45.7 from the July number of 48.2. A number below 50 forecasts fewer commercial buildings being designed by architects.