The latest Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) highlights a continued rise in costs across the glass and metal sectors, driven by higher energy prices, raw material costs, and tariff pressures. Reflecting inflation from the manufacturer’s perspective, the PPI shows that price increases are building across the supply chain, particularly in construction-related materials.

In February, glass and glass product manufacturing prices rose by 1%, following a stronger 2% increase in January. On an annual basis, prices were up 4.9% compared to February 2025, signaling steady upward momentum. The broader PPI also climbed by 0.7% during the month, with year-over-year inflation reaching 3.4%—the highest level recorded since February 2025. Notably, these figures do not yet account for potential price impacts linked to geopolitical tensions involving Iran.

Flat glass prices continued their upward trend, increasing by 0.3% in February after a revised 1% rise in January. Over the past five months, prices have grown by 2.2%, while year-over-year gains reached 4.5%. Meanwhile, flat glass manufacturing costs rose by 1% in February, contributing to a 6.5% annual increase.

Metal-related products are seeing even sharper cost pressures. Fabricated structural metal products rose by 0.8% in February and are up 9% year over year. Ornamental and architectural metalwork increased by 0.5% during the month, with annual growth reaching 11%.

Metal windows experienced one of the most significant jumps, rising 1.6% in February and standing 20.3% higher than a year ago. Similarly, metal doors and frames edged up by 0.1%, marking their fourth consecutive monthly increase, with annual growth at 11%. Builders’ hardware prices also climbed modestly, up 0.2% in February and 8.2% year over year.