There appears to be no sign of steel prices coming down anytime soon, with the overall cost of agricultural buildings up 20% since late last year, according to Billy Heffernan of O'Dwyer Steel.

The rise in costs of materials, and delays due to Covid-19 in starting work on projects, has seen jobs having to be repriced due to how much costs are continually increasing.

To give a bit more insight into the rising costs of building materials and supply issues, speaking to Agriland, Billy Heffernan said: "Every time we purchase steel it's more expensive.

"There is a very high demand worldwide, which is making it difficult to get a hold of supplies.

"I would say since the start of this year that the cost of steel, cladding and timber has risen by 35-40%," he added.

"When you factor in labour and transport, the cost of getting the same project completed now compared to six months ago, is probably 20% higher.

Billy said delays in getting jobs completed have been hugely frustrating due to supply issues, and also down to Covid-19.

He concluded: "Building projects are taking longer to complete and that's mainly down to getting a hold of supplies. Covid-19 has also had an impact on getting jobs completed as well.

"There are going to be delays in getting jobs finished; it's frustrating, but that's just where we are at."