Global demand for materials, a brake on your work?

For about a month, the building sector has suffered from a shortage of raw materials in France. This unprecedented situation endangers many construction sites, and it also affects private DIY enthusiasts. But what are the causes? And which materials are impacted?

How to explain the shortage of materials in France?

Unsurprisingly, the main cause of the shortage of materials in France is the health crisis. The pandemic effectively crippled the world economy and caused unexpected aftershocks in the construction industry. Containment has contributed to the disruption of supply chains, as 2020 was a record for DIY and construction work. Also, the price of raw materials has risen rapidly and certain materials, such as Canadian wood, are taxed heavily. Finally, we must not forget the increase in the price of sea freight to the tune of + 400% for containers. This increase in freight costs is partly caused by the traffic jam in the Suez Canal where the container ship Ever Given ran aground on March 23.

Which materials are the most impacted?

One of the materials most affected by the shortage is wood. Since Donald Trump decided to tax wood that comes from Canada, American construction players have been forced to source from European countries, especially Germany and Austria. This phenomenon has led to a scarcity of wood and a serious increase in prices. Besides wood, concrete and mortar have also become unavailable in France. This was helped by the fire in a German factory, and also by the cold snap that caused frequent power cuts and production difficulties in Texas. But that's not all, companies in the metal products sector have also faced significant increases in prices and lead times. And the same goes for factories that supply aluminum, copper wire and ingot brass. Glass, too, has not been spared by this shortage. Not only is it becoming scarce and unavailable, it comes at a very high price. It should be noted that other essential products on a construction site are also affected by the shortage including: paints, glues, inks, colors, adhesives and wood preservatives.