The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and the Window & Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) have jointly released the August update to the AAMA/WDMA 2012/2013 U.S. Industry Statistical Review and Forecast. This report delivers information on door, window and skylight market trends and product relationships.
Nonresidential Construction
Nonresidential construction activity experienced slow growth, though the net effect was negligible in categories favorable to nonresidential door volumes (hospitality, education, healthcare, office). Total volume remained steady at 2.3 million units (entry) and 6.3 million units (interior), reflecting a flat market in comparison with 2011.Specifically for 2012, total volume remained steady at 2.3 million units for nonresidential entry doors and 6.3 million units for architectural interior doors, reflecting a flat market in comparison with 2011.
Window Demand
The demand for prime windows rebounded somewhat in 2012 and increased overall by 6 percent, driven by a very strong demand for new housing, which was partially offset by a weak renovation market. The demand for windows in new housing increased by 25 percent in 2012 with a similar increase projected for 2013, as the housing recovery continues and new housing units in 2013 will exceed 1 million for the first time since 2007. Meanwhile, remodeling and replacement window demand is starting to recover and is forecast to increase by 8 percent in 2013 after a decline of 3 percent in 2012, as recent strong gains in existing home sales buoy the market.
New Housing Market
Total housing starts continued to grow in 2012 with strong gains in both single-family and multi-family segments, up by 24 percent and 38 percent, respectively. Going forward, the overall new housing market is expected to continue a similar level of growth for at least the next two years. Multi-family and single-family starts are expected to experience 26- and 20-percent increases, respectively, in 2013. Also for 2013, the Southern region of the U.S. will continue to make up the greater percentage of total conventional construction starts, accounting for 52 percent of the total market. The Northeastern and Western regions of the U.S. also are growing their share in 2013 at the expense of the Midwest market, which is growing, but at a slower pace.
Residential Skylights
Residential skylights closed the year with a growth rate of 1.8 percent over the 2011 volume, lower than initial expectations. New construction skylight activity was up 10 percent in 2012, which is lower than anticipated, while remodeling and replacement skylight activity was flat versus 2011 totals.
