The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) has released the "AAMA 2016/2017 U.S. Industry Statistical Review and Forecast." This report delivers timely information on window, door and skylight market trends and product relationships. Historic data for 2008 through 2014 and forecast data for 2017 through 2019 also are included in the report. Forecasts are based on projections of construction activity as of March 2017.
Total housing starts continued their growth curve in 2016 with strong gains particularly in the single family segment, up by 10 percent. The overall new housing market is expected to continue at a strong level of growth through 2019. Single family starts are expected to continue to take the lead in 2017 and experience another 10 percent increase. While the West and Midwest regions of the U.S. have experienced stronger growth in the last year, the South and Northeast are expected to be more dynamic over the next two years.
The demand for prime windows improved by 3.1 percent in 2016, driven by continued strong new housing demand. The demand for windows in new housing increased by just under 5 percent in 2016, with increases of 7 and 8 percent forecasted for the next two years as the housing recovery continues. Meanwhile, remodeling and replacement window demand increased modestly again, by just under 2 percent in 2016, with growth in this segment also likely to be somewhat improved in 2017 against the backdrop of strengthening existing home sales.
In 2016, non-residential construction activity experienced strong growth, with a similar net positive effect on the entry door market. Total volume increased to 2.4 million units, reflecting a 6 percent growth rate versus 2015. Looking forward, growth is expected to continue at a similar pace of 6 percent in 2017 and 5 percent in 2017.
Residential skylights closed the year at 960 thousand units, a growth rate of 4 percent over 2015 volume. New construction skylight activity was up 10 percent, while remodeling and replacement skylight activity was up 2 percent versus 2015.
Additional and more detailed information on the residential and commercial fenestration markets is contained in the "AAMA 2015/2016 Study of the U.S. Market for Windows, Doors and Skylights" (published in May 2016), which includes all of the items listed below.
• "AAMA U.S. Industry Channel Distribution Report" profiles the residential and non-residential market for windows and doors as it flows through the identified distribution channels.
• "AAMA U.S. Industry Market Size Report" quantifies residential and non-residential market volumes, both historic and projected.
• "AAMA U.S. Industry Regional Statistical Review and Forecasts" detail information on trends and product relationships.
The updated "AAMA 2016/2017 U.S. Industry Statistical Review and Forecast," as well as the other reports listed above, is available for purchase online from the AAMA Online Store.