Recognition

The report from Cleveland-based Freedonia Group, published in September 2006, covers both the residential and nonresidential markets—a $10.4 billion industry. It forecasts that demand for siding materials will remain flat through 2010 at 117 million squares, mainly due to the downturn in homebuilding.

The survey reports that the strongest growth will be in nonresidential markets, as industrial, commercial and office building activity recovers from a cyclical low in 2005. The main beneficiaries for this segment will be stucco EIFS and metal panels—the most in-demand material over the next few years, the study predicts.

On the residential side, vinyl siding will retain its lead due to its lower cost and prevalence in remodeling channels. However the study says that vinyl's market share will begin to erode, especially as fiber cement's reputation for durability and value continue to take hold in the market. Furthermore, Freedonia predicts that fiber cement "will post among the fastest gains through 2010, surpassing wood and brick in usage."

The 301-page study ($4,400) also analyzes market environment, industry structure and profiles the major siding product manufacturers.

To learn more visit: http://freedonia.ecnext.com/coms2/browse_RS_10 and select "Siding to 2010"