Although prices for construction materials and supplies were 4.5 percent higher in July 2010 than July 2009, prices inched 0.2 percent lower on a monthly basis, according to the Aug. 17 producer price index report by the U.S. Labor Department.

Softwood lumber prices continued to decline, falling 3.3 percent for the month, although they are still up 10.1 percent from July 2009. Iron and steel prices were down 2.3 percent in July, but still 26 percent higher year-over-year.

Similarly, steel mill product prices were down 1.4 percent in July, but remain 26.1 percent higher compared to July 2009. Nonferrous wire and cable prices slipped 0.8 percent for the month, but are up 11.4 percent year-over-year, while concrete product prices fell 0.1 percent in July, leaving them 1.9 percent lower than the same time last year.

Prepared asphalt, tar roofing and siding prices jumped 3.8 percent for the month and are 4.3 percent higher on a year-over-year basis. Fabricated ferrous wire prices increased 0.9 percent in July and 2.4 percent during the past 12 months.

Plumbing fixtures and fittings prices inched up 0.2 percent for the month and are 0.9 percent higher compared to last year. Prices for fabricated structural metal products also increased 0.1 percent in July and are up 2.4 percent year-over-year.

Crude energy prices climbed 4.5 percent and natural gas prices jumped 11.7 percent for the month. After experiencing decreases during the previous two months, prices for wholesale finished goods increased 0.2 percent in July.