I recently moved from Europe, and I've noticed that concrete blocks here in Canada are shockingly three times more expensive than in countries like Romania or Greece. Can anyone explain why there's such a huge price difference?
3 Answers
Don't forget that the construction industry in Canada just generally has higher costs overall. Building materials here tend to cost twice as much as they do in the US, and the prices for similar items can be shocking when you compare them side by side online.
You also have to consider the production costs. Emission controls on cement manufacturing in Canada are stricter, which can drive up prices significantly. It's not just about the blocks themselves but the whole process of making them.
One reason for the price hike is that you're comparing Canada to countries with lower costs of living, like Romania and Greece. In Canada, labor costs are much higher, and most new homes are built with poured concrete rather than blocks. It's just not as popular here, which means less demand and higher prices.
Exactly! Plus, concrete work tends to require more skilled labor compared to stick framing. Skilled labor is pricier, and that's definitely factored into the cost.
Yeah, and even if the blocks are actually cheaper to make in other countries, the transportation costs to get them to Canada can add up too, making them even more expensive.