Argentina dry construction demand grows amid rising costs

Dry construction demand is growing in Argentina as an efficient alternative to traditional building methods. In August 2026, the cost for galvanized steel structures rose by 4%, reaching approximately $2,700,000 per square meter (roughly US$1,770 at the official exchange rate). This remains higher than traditional methods, which cost around US$1,440 plus VAT.

According to Federico Azzollini, managing partner of Icon+, dry construction offers several advantages, including construction speeds that are 25% to 40% faster because it eliminates the need for drying wet materials. The method is also considered more sustainable due to the use of recyclable materials and reduced waste. Additionally, it optimizes space with thinner walls (14–15 cm) without compromising thermal, acoustic, or fire resistance.

In terms of cost distribution, labor accounts for 30% to 40% of dry construction expenses, while materials comprise 60%. This differs from traditional construction, where costs are split 50/50 between labor and materials. Experts suggest that if material prices decrease through increased imports while labor costs continue to rise, dry construction could become more economically competitive.