TileLetter

Construction input prices increased 1.2% in August compared to the previous month, according to a new analysis by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Producer Price Index data. Nonresidential construction input prices also increased 1.2% for the month. Overall construction input prices were 8.9% higher than one year ago, while nonresidential construction input prices were 8.8% higher. Prices increased in two of the three energy subcategories in August.

Data centers’ impact on real estate is dramatically different depending on the local market, according to the 2026 Data Center Impact Report from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). The report combines a national, state, and county-level data analysis with a survey of agents who are REALTORS® working in these markets to paint a fuller picture of what data center growth means for housing, jobs, and utility costs. Data centers are highly concentrated in a small number of markets.

Brazilian quartzite already holds a prominent position in the international market. Now, Brazil aims to further strengthen recognition of its origin. At Marmomac Italy 2026, taking place September 22 to 25 in Verona, the country will strengthen its position as a global benchmark in the supply of premium quartzites. For the second year in a row, an entire hall at Marmomac will be devoted to Brazil.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is leading the conversation at several Climate Week NYC events to educate and advocate for architects’ role in creating a more resilient built environment. Running September 20-28, Climate Week NYC is a global convening of leaders from the private sector, public sector, and NGOs focused on advancing collaborative climate action.

For years, interior design has found a safe haven in neutral tones. Whites, beiges, greys, stone, and natural wood have shaped a language associated with serenity, sophistication and timelessness. Yet their widespread use has also contributed to a certain homogenization of interiors, making it increasingly difficult to recognize the personality of the people who inhabit them. At Cersaie 2026, APE Grupo proposes a renewed confidence in color.

At Cersaie 2026, Gres Aragón-FAVEKER will present its latest extruded ceramic and porcelain stoneware solutions, designed to meet the needs of contemporary architecture. At its new location in Hall 26, stand B189, the company will bring together ventilated façades, volumetric solutions, swimming pools, technical flooring, steps and special pieces, demonstrating ceramics’ ability to form part of complete construction systems.

MAPEI is bringing customers, partners, and guests together in Montreal, Canada, for an unforgettable week of cycling, hospitality and community engagement surrounding the 2026 UCI Road World Championships, taking place September 20-27. As a Main Partner of the championships, MAPEI is using the event to connect its North American community with one of the world’s premier cycling competitions while celebrating its longstanding commitment to the sport.

Existing-home sales decreased by 2.0% month over month and 1.2% year over year, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Existing-Home Sales Report. The report provides the real estate ecosystem—including agents, homebuyers, and sellers—with data on the level of home sales, price, and inventory. Month-over-month sales held steady in the West and declined in the Northeast, Midwest, and South.

At Cersaie 2026, Durstone will present a program of new products spanning different scales and expressions of ceramics: from color and relief in small formats to latticework, stone surfaces, and reflective large-format slabs. The collections will be integrated throughout the company’s space in Hall 26, Stand B31, September 21-25.

LX Hausys is expanding the design possibilities within its TERACANTO porcelain collection, adding new bookmatching options for three of its most popular colors beginning this month. Asgard, TERACANTO’s top-performing color, is now available with bookmatching for the first time in a polished finish, while Calacatta Gold and Statuario Bianco are adding satin-finish bookmatching options. All three are offered in 1.2cm-thick, 63” x 126” slabs and are available for sample request and specification.