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Canadian Construction Materials: Cost Saving Residential and Commercial Builder Products in Canada

Writer's picture: StartritehomesStartritehomes

Updated: Feb 6

Top Residential and Commercial Builder Products in Canada: Costs and Comparisons


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Overview of Canadian Construction Materials for Building in Canada

The selection of building materials for residential and commercial construction in Canada is influenced by structural requirements, cost, availability, and environmental considerations. With tariffs and global supply chain disruptions affecting prices, builders must evaluate whether to source materials domestically or internationally. Below is an overview of key materials, their costs, and a comparison with international markets.

1. Concrete

Cost in Canada:

Concrete is fundamental in Canadian construction, valued for its strength and durability. As of Q3 2024, Canada’s construction material costs experienced a modest decline of 0.5% quarter-over-quarter, indicating potential stabilization after previous volatility. The cost of ready-mix concrete ranges from $150 to $250 per cubic meter, depending on the region and volume purchased.

International Comparison:

Concrete prices vary globally due to raw material availability and transportation costs. Some regions may offer concrete at $120 to $180 per cubic meter, making imports potentially cost-effective for large-scale projects.

Import Options (Least Expensive):

  • China

  • Mexico

Canadian Suppliers:

  • Doman Building Materials Group Ltd. (domanbm.com)

  • Taiga Building Products

  • RONA

  • Castle Building Centres Group

2. Steel

Cost in Canada:

Steel is crucial for high-rise buildings and commercial projects. Prices fluctuate due to global demand and trade policies, with tariffs and supply chain disruptions influencing costs. Structural steel costs $1,500 to $3,500 per metric ton, while reinforcing steel rebar ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 per metric ton.

International Comparison:

Global steel prices can be lower in countries with significant production capacities, offering savings of up to 20%, though tariffs may add extra costs to imports.

Import Options (Least Expensive):

  • China

  • India

Canadian Suppliers:

  • Wolseley Canada

  • Groupe BMR

  • Castle Building Centres Group

3. Wood

Cost in Canada:

Wood is widely used in residential construction. The U.S. imports 70% of its sawmill and wood products from Canada, but tariffs, currently at 14.5%, have increased costs. The cost of framing lumber in Canada ranges from $400 to $1,200 per thousand board feet, depending on the grade and availability.

International Comparison:

In 2023, Chinese import prices for British Columbia lumber rose by approximately 60%. Importing wood from alternative markets can result in potential savings of $50 to $200 per thousand board feet, depending on trade conditions.

Import Options (Least Expensive):

  • Sweden

Canadian Suppliers:

  • TimberMart

  • Doman Building Materials Group Ltd.

  • Taiga Building Products

4. Brick and Masonry

Cost in Canada:

Brick and masonry materials are favored for their durability and aesthetics. In 2023, concrete blocks and bricks saw significant price increases. The cost of standard clay bricks in Canada is around $0.50 to $1.00 per brick, while concrete blocks range from $2.50 to $5.00 per unit.

International Comparison:

Brick and masonry costs vary globally, with some countries offering lower costs of $0.30 to $0.80 per brick and $2.00 to $4.00 per concrete block, creating potential savings for large-scale importers.

Import Options (Least Expensive):

  • India

  • Vietnam

Canadian Suppliers:

  • RONA

  • Castle Building Centres Group

  • TimberMart

5. Alternative Materials (Hempcrete & Sustainable Options)

Cost in Canada:

Sustainable materials like hempcrete are gaining popularity. Hempcrete is used in Canada for non-weight-bearing insulating infill walls but requires a separate structural frame. The cost of hempcrete ranges from $120 to $250 per cubic meter, making it a competitive alternative to traditional insulation materials.

International Comparison:

The adoption of alternative materials varies by region. In some European countries, hempcrete costs $90 to $200 per cubic meter, presenting potential savings for builders willing to import.

Import Options (Least Expensive):

  • France

  • Netherlands

Canadian Suppliers:

  • Hempcrete Canada

  • Natural Building Supplies Canada


Is it Cheaper for Builders to Buy Within Canada?

Buying materials within Canada can often be cost-effective due to reduced tariffs, lower transportation costs, and reliable supply chains. The U.S. has imposed tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber, driving up costs for exports. Conversely, Canadian builders importing materials may also face increased expenses due to global trade regulations.

For example, purchasing lumber within Canada can save $50 to $300 per thousand board feet compared to U.S. imports. Similarly, domestic sourcing of steel can offer savings of up to $500 per metric ton, depending on market fluctuations.


From an industry perspective, Canadian builders face a delicate balance between cost efficiency and supply chain reliability when sourcing construction materials. While domestic purchases can often provide stability, the fluctuating costs and occasional tariffs on imports create an ongoing challenge. With global suppliers offering competitive pricing—particularly in steel and concrete—builders need to weigh short-term savings against potential long-term supply chain risks. As sustainable materials gain popularity, Canada must look at fostering stronger local production to reduce dependency on international markets. Ultimately, strategic purchasing decisions will be key for builders aiming to optimize costs without compromising on quality.


The choice of building materials in Canada depends on factors such as domestic availability, international market fluctuations, and project-specific needs. While sourcing materials within Canada can mitigate the impact of tariffs and support local businesses, market conditions should be regularly assessed to ensure the most cost-effective strategy.



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