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The cost of construction materials jumped in March, even as the amount contractors charge to complete projects remained stagnant, according to an analysis of producer price index figures released today by 51����.  Association officials noted that the spike in materials prices continues despite relatively weak overall demand for construction, and cautioned that current market conditions could force some firms out of business. “Price shocks for a number of key construction materials may have caught contractors by surprise in a period when overall inflation remained very moderate,” said Ken Simonson, 51����’s chief economist. “Even though the increases are generally small compared to the high levels of last March, contractors have not been able to pass along these new costs, putting firms at risk of insolvency.” Click to view March PPI tables. Click to read the full press release.