Yes, that is exactly what is being compared. Newer markets produce the cheaper concrete, specifically for what they are designed to, so that it can only survive to its purpose. That is not bad if we were talking just to momentaneous stuff. But, when it comes to what the people actually expect, then this turns to an issue. Log cabins being built with woods that cannot survive through 2 different generations, furniture getting to be treated with delicacies, all cars needing mechanical maintenance after 5 years of use, etc. These all are examples of an economy that is bought by society not because they want it, but because they have no purchasing power (and lack of lots of other stuff) anymore for buying stuff that can endure, even if the maintenance costs will be greater than buying great quality stuff. This is a reflect of the struggle, the reflect of not having even the possibility to keep money for the most simple stuff in life.