Back in our Fall Newsletter, we included content that talked about the pricing myth. You can read it here. In a nutshell, we provided hard data that shows just how cost-effective concrete construction can be in both the short- and long-term. The numbers dispel the myth that concrete is more expensive than wood. And guess what? The numbers continue to trend in our favor with wood costs increasing again by double digits.

Not only that, but the sheer volume of potential work in Virginia is incredible. Look at the chart below. It shows the breakdown of projects listed in the Dodge Pipeline in both Virginia and Washington DC over the course of 2020. The total? Close to $67 billion! Worth noting too is that this chart doesn’t include all the projects that fall under the $10 million threshold.

The question is how do we take advantage of this market and push these projects to concrete? Is your head spinning? We’ve got a few ideas…

First, it’s the perfect time to talk to your partners about Insulated Concrete Form construction. Given the current price of wood, short-term we are seeing cost savings between 5-10% when comparing concrete construction to wood construction (depending on the project). Cost no longer can be used as an excuse not to consider this building system. And the long-term benefits speak for themselves. Check out this VRMCA Infographic which covers the highlights. Feel free to download this file and share with your partners.

Second, if you’re looking for some talking points and tips to help with your conversations about ICFs, plan to join us for the VRMCA Webinar “How to Talk About Insulated Concrete Form Construction” on Thursday, March 4th at 2:00pm. NRMCA’s Frank Gordon is going to cover some frequently asked questions and offer his best answers so you can be confident in approaching your partners. You can register here!

Speaking of Frank Gordon, it’s worth reminding you that both Frank and VRMCA’s Promotions Director Hessam Nabavi are here to help you move the needle forward. If you hear of a project coming to your area (even a whisper!), have a partner who wants to talk ICF construction, or someone just looking for additional information, these are the guys to contact.

We’re working on a few more ideas to push ICF construction within Virginia, so stay tuned for more information!