Homewyse Improvements and Enhancements - August 2026

Labor Rate and Material Cost Updates

The cost estimating calculators at Homewyse.com now reflect the following changes:

• Labor Rate Change The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports wages for home construction, remodeling and maintenance professionals have grown between 1.8% and 2.2% over the preceeding 6 months. The volatility of the labor market continues and there are reports that specialty trade labor rates are testing larger price increases in select markets.
• Material Unit Cost Changes Material and supply prices have grown by 4% to 7% across categories in the prior 6 months. A notible exception is concrete - which has seen significant price volatility lately and has increased in per cubic yard price by roughly 4% - 8% since the prior reporting period. Softwood lumber, exterior grade plywood and some fencing materials have increased over 11% in some markets. Due to high volatility and high regional variances, lumber prices should be confirmed with suppliers before large lumber orders.