Dry Construction: A Cheaper, Faster Alternative Amid Soaring Building Costs in Argentina
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Construction costs in Argentina continue to rise, with a 3.9% increase in April and a 13.6% cumulative growth in 2026, significantly above the historical average.
- Dry construction (construcción en seco), which avoids wet mixes and uses interlocking or fastened materials, is presented as a potentially faster and more cost-effective alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar methods.
- While the cost per square meter for dry construction is currently similar to traditional methods, experts suggest it could become more economical as material costs potentially decrease and labor costs increase.
La Nación, a prominent Argentine newspaper, delves into the rising costs of construction and explores alternative building methods. With construction prices experiencing a sharp increase, particularly since the presidential elections in late 2023, Argentines are seeking more accessible ways to acquire property, whether by buying or building.
The article introduces 'construcción en seco' (dry construction) as a viable solution. This method bypasses traditional wet mixes, using interlocking, nailed, or glued components attached to a structure, thereby accelerating the building process and reducing construction times. This is particularly relevant in Argentina, where efficiency and cost savings are paramount for homeowners.
Desde las elecciones presidenciales de octubre de 2023, el índice acumula una subida del 131%, ubicándose actualmente un 45% por encima del promedio histórico 2012-2025
Federico Azzollini, managing partner at Icon+, highlights that dry construction typically has a lower labor cost component compared to traditional masonry. While the cost per square meter for dry construction is currently comparable to traditional methods (around US$1,450 vs. US$1,410-1,500), Azzollini points out that this system becomes more attractive as material costs are expected to stabilize or decrease with potential import liberalization, and labor costs are projected to rise.
From an Argentine perspective, this exploration of dry construction is not just about a new building technique; it's about finding practical, affordable solutions in an economy marked by high inflation and fluctuating costs. The article's focus on the potential for cost reduction and faster build times resonates deeply with a population looking for ways to navigate the challenging economic landscape. La Nación's detailed analysis provides valuable insights for potential homeowners and builders, offering a comparative look at traditional versus modern construction methods in the local context.
los costos de materiales deberían empezar a bajar con la apertura de las importaciones y en que está proyectado que la mano de obra aumentará de acá en adelante, este sistema se vuelve más atra
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by La Nación in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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