Data News

Housing Starts Fall on Interest Rate, Financing Concerns

Housing starts fell in March with interest rates somewhat higher than expected last month as the latest inflation readings failed to show improvement. Builders are also still facing higher supply-side costs and tighter lending conditions.

Builder Sentiment Unchanged in April

Builder sentiment was flat in April as mortgage rates remained close to 7% over the past month and the latest inflation data failed to show improvement during the first quarter of 2024.

Remodeling Market Sentiment Remains Positive in First Quarter

Demand for remodeling remains solid for the first quarter of 2024, down only one point compared to the previous quarter.

Jeld-Wen to Release First-Quarter 2024 Results

The company's first-quarter 2024 results will be released during a conference call on May 6.

Home-Buyer Preferences Shift as Affordability Challenges Remain

More than a third of builders say they built smaller homes in 2023, and more than a quarter plan to construct even smaller this year, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

New Home Sales Hold Steady in February

A small rise in mortgage rates in February led to a flat reading for new home sales.

Single-Family Housing Starts Increase in February

Pent-up demand, moderating interest rates and a lack of existing inventory helped push single-family starts in February to their highest level since April 2022.

New Report on Construction Polymers Market

A new report on the construction polymers market analyzes the use of polymers in windows and glazing through 2028.

Builder Sentiment Rises Above Breakeven Point in March

A lack of existing inventory that continues to drive buyers to new home construction, coupled with strong demand and mortgage rates below last fall’s cycle peak, helped push builder sentiment above a key marker in March.

2024 She Builds Nation Report Released

The 2024 "She Builds Nation" report sheds light on the challenges faced by women in the construction industry.

Single-Family Production Shows Signs of Stirring

All urban, rural, metro and county area single-family markets experienced double-digit production declines in the third quarter as construction began to turn the corner in the final quarter of the year.

Single-Family Starts to Rise in 2024

As single-family home building expands in 2024, the market will see growing supply-side challenges in the form of higher prices and/or shortages of lumber, lots and labor.

NAHB Study Indicates Top Home Trends

According to the National Association of Home Builders’ latest "What Home Buyers Really Want" study, better, not bigger, homes are among top design trends for 2024.

Dodge and NAHB Unveil Findings of Recent Sustainability Report

Home builders and remodelers are embracing greener practices, surpassing 2019 levels, according to a new study. There is a surging adoption of water and materials conservation and energy efficiency in building practices. 

Jeld-Wen Posts Decreased Revenues in Q4, Says "uncertainty in the markets" to remain in 2024

Jeld-Wen Holding posted decreased net revenues for Q4. CEO William J. Christensen says the company will plan to mitigate the impact of continuing market uncertainty by "ongoing activities" reducing operating costs.

PGTI Posts Sales of $343 Million in Q4 Results

PGT Innovations delivered "record" results in its fourth quarter posting, according to President Jeff Jackson. He said sales growth was driven by growth in the Southeast region.

Housing Starts Decline in January on Multifamily Weakness

A sharp decline in multifamily starts pushed overall housing starts down in January even as single-family production showed signs of a gradual improvement later this year as interest rates continue to moderate.

Builder Sentiment Posts Third Consecutive Monthly Gain

Builder confidence in the market for newly built, single-family homes climbed four points to 48 in February, the highest level since August 2023.

New Home Sales Bounce Back in December

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in December increased 8.0% to a 664,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from an upwardly revised reading in November.

Remodeling Market Sentiment Improves in Q4 2023

Remodelers' sentiment was positive at the end of 2023, when seasonally adjusted for the slowdown that occurs during the latter part of the year. High costs remain an issue in some places, but in many markets customers seem to have adjusted to the unavoidable higher prices.

Single-Family Starts Down in December

In a sign that lower mortgage rates continue to boost the housing market, single-family production surpassed the million mark for the second straight month in December 2023.

Builder Sentiment Surges on Falling Interest Rates

Mortgage rates well under 7% over the past month have led to a sharp increase in builder confidence to begin the new year.

New Home Sales Down in November, Should Improve Moving Forward

The pace of new home sales in November was the lowest annual rate since November 2022 but sales are up 3.9% on a year-to-date basis due to a lack of resale inventory.

Single-Family Starts Surge on Falling Interest Rates

Single-family construction increased in November as lower mortgage rates helped to assuage affordability concerns and unleash pent-up demand for housing.

Builder Sentiment Rises on Falling Interest Rates

According to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, falling mortgage rates helped end a four-month decline in builder confidence.

Window and Door Material Prices Slow in November

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics dropped its Producer Price Index for November, showing a drop in prices for materials used in door and window manufacturing.

Homeowner Mobility Stalls Amid Rising Interest Rates

Homeowner household mobility dropped by a full percentage point from 2022 to 2023, according to data released by the U.S. Census Bureau from the 2023 Current Population Survey and American Community Survey.

Report: New Construction Grew Most in Exurban Areas

In the third quarter of 2023, single-family and multifamily home construction grew in outlying areas instead of urban centers.

Jeld-Wen Reports Third-Quarter 2023 Results

In the third quarter, the company generated year-over-year increased profitability and strong cash flows, despite challenging macroeconomic conditions.

Report: Home Prices Are Rising Again

When combined with higher mortgage rates, elevated home prices make the prospect of homeownership unattainable for an increasing number of potential buyers.

Homebuilder Sentiment Falls Again in November

This is the fourth consecutive monthly drop in builder confidence, as sentiment levels have declined 22 points since July and are at their lowest level since December 2022.

Rising Mortgage Rates Push Down Housing Prices

Housing affordability fell to its lowest level since 2012 when rising mortgage rates, ongoing building material supply chain disruptions, high inflation and elevated home prices pushed the housing market into a recession.

Growth is Flat, says Inaugural Window and Door Survey

The inaugural Window and Door Market Survey, conducted in conjunction with Window + Door and John Burns Research and Consulting, shows return to normal seasonal demand conditions in 3Q23 following years of continued strong demand post-COVID as backlogs have been worked through and lead times…

Be Part of the 2024 Industry Pulse Survey

The annual Window + Door Industry Pulse survey is open. The survey reflects on the past year and sets expectations for 2024, including insights on product, sales and employment trends, as well as supply chain, materials and costs.

Weakening of Residential Remodeling Activity Anticipated for 2024

The LIRA projects annual owner expenditures for home updates and maintenance to decline by 7.7% through the third quarter of 2024. The ongoing weakness in the housing market caused by high interest rates and low supply of existing homes is expected to weigh on remodeling activity next year.

High Mortgage Rates Continue to Erode Builder Confidence

Builder sentiment began slipping in August when home loan rates surpassed 7%. Nearly one-third of builders cut prices in October to entice more buyers.

U.S. Single-Family Starts Post Unexpected Gain in September

U.S. single-family housing starts increased in September despite high-interest rates, according to the latest estimates from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Construction Starts Drop 6% in September

Construction starts dropped 6% as fewer mega projects move forward. All three major sectors declined in September with residential leading the tumble.

Remodeling Market Sentiment Declines in Q3 2023

The Washington, D.C.-based trade association released its NAHB/Westlake Royal Remodeling Market Index for the third quarter of 2023, posting a reading of 65, declining three points compared to the previous quarter.

New Home Sales Weaken in August on Higher Mortgage Rates

New home sales have decreased recently due to elevated mortgage rates and challenging affordability conditions.

Study Released on Residential Door Demand

Principia has released a study on what's driving residential door demand. 

Report: America’s Aging Homes and Homeowner Experiences

In a report by All Star Home, more than half of American homeowners live in a house that is 30 years or older, one in five Americans regret living in an older home, and on average, homeowners have spent $10,700 on repairs in the past five years.

Housing Starts Lower on Rising Mortgage Rates

Led by a sharp decline in multifamily production, overall housing starts fell 11.3% in August to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.28 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Housing Starts Lower on Rising Mortgage Rates

NAHB analysts say higher mortgage rates, which are unlikely to abate in the coming months, combined with low inventory and high home prices are slowing housing production.

High Mortgage Rates Continue to Weaken Builder Confidence

According to the latest NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, builder confidence in the market for newly built, single-family homes in September fell again.

Homebuyers Turn to the New Home Market

With existing inventories historically low, homebuyers are increasingly turning to the new home market.

New Home Sales Increase in July

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in July increased 4.4% to a 714,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from a downwardly revised reading in June, according to data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Single-Family Starts Edge Higher in July

Overall housing starts increased 3.9% in July to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.45 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Builder Confidence Falls on Rising Mortgage Rates

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes in August fell six points to 50, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

JBREC and HIRL Unveil Building Products Demand Meter

John Burns Research and Consulting and Home Innovation Research Labs unveiled their inaugural residential Building Products Demand Meter report, which signals negative growth for the majority of residential building product categories in 2023.

Higher Home Prices, Mortgage Rates Shrink Housing Affordability

Rising home prices and interest rates coupled with elevated construction costs, low existing inventory and solid demand resulted in a significant decline in housing affordability during the second quarter of 2023.

Manufacturing Jobs See Decline in July

Manufacturing employment declined in July, while factory orders and manufacturing productivity rose in June.

Marcum Releases 2023 National Construction Survey

Marcum releases its 2023 National Construction Survey, which offers detailed insight into the industry's strategic planning and cost-cutting measures and the significant impact of fluctuating interest rates and other economic trends.

New Home Sales Cool in June

Rising mortgage rates and elevated construction costs put a damper on new home sales last month.

Assa Abloy Reports Strong Q2 2023 Results

Financial data released by Assa Abloy shows that Q2 net sales grew by 17%, organic growth increased by 3%, operating income increased by 25% and earnings per share rose by 18%. However, lower residential construction levels have forced Assa Abloy to implement short-term cost measures to protect…

Further Softening Expected for Homeowner Remodeling

Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies' Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity shows annual spending on home improvements and repairs is expected to decrease through 2023 and into 2024.

Total Construction Starts Dip in June

Most construction categories lowered in June, but single-family starts are a bright spot, according to the Dodge Momentum Index.  

Single-Family Starts Decline in June

Single-family production fell back after four straight monthly gains as elevated construction costs and rising mortgage rates led to a reduction in home building activity and affordability conditions worsened for home buyers, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban…

Builder Confidence Edges Higher

Low existing inventory that is keeping demand solid for new homes helped to push builder confidence up in July even as the industry continues to grapple with rising mortgage rates, elevated construction costs and limited lot availability, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

WDMA Releases 2023 U.S. Industry Market Study

The 2023 market study report by the Window & Door Manufacturers Association includes an analysis of the attitudinal drivers of homeowners and contractors, key macro drivers in the residential and commercial markets, and a special section to gauge overall shipment demand sentiment and…

Remodeling Market Sentiment Edges Down in Q2

The NAHB's remodeling index went from 70 to 68 in the second quarter of 2023.

Long-Term Outlook for Building Products Remains Favorable

The latest BGL Industrials Insider report shares that while the pipeline of opportunities continues to grow, investors remain cautious in the current building products M&A market.

Alside Survey Reveals Top Reasons Homeowners Would Consider Replacing Windows

A nation-wide survey by Alside reveals that enhancing energy efficiency and damage are the top reasons why house/apartment/condo owners would choose to replace windows. 

Lack of Inventory Spur New Home Sales in May

Sales of newly-built single-family homes jumped by 12.2% in May, according to government data analyzed by NAHB. The increase is due to a lack of home inventory as well as high demand. 

Survey: Renovations, Energy Efficiency Lead U.S. Homeowner Concern

The new "Opening Doors" survey by Jeld-Wen finds that energy-efficient home renovation is emerging as a key solution to U.S. homeowners.

National Manufacturers Survey Shows Mounting Concerns Over Federal Regulations

The National Association of Manufacturers Second Quarter 2023 Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey shows manufacturers’ mounting concerns over the onslaught of unbalanced federal regulations and the threat that poses to sustaining manufacturing investment, job creation and wage growth.

Housing Costs Depress Home buying, steep interest rates slow construction

Interest rates, mortgage costs and home prices are keeping homeownership out of reach for many potential buyers, according to a new report from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies.  

June HMI Shows Builder Optimism

NAHB's Housing Market Index indicates the sixth straight month of increased builder confidence. June readings rose five points, and exceeded the midpoint of 50 for the first time since July 2022

Single-Family Starts Post Solid Gain in May

Overall housing starts in May increased 21.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.63 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

NAHB HOI Shows Increase in Housing Affordability

Housing affordability shows a solid gain, but still much lower from a year ago, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index (HOI).

Fortune Brands Innovations Prices $600 Million Public Offering

Fortune Brands Innovations priced a registered public offering of $600 million, and has received an upgraded credit rating from Moody’s to Baa2 Stable from Baa3 Positive.

Quanex reports lower y-o-y revenue for second quarter 2023, remains optimistic

Quanex posted $273.5 million in sales for its second quarter 2023, a year-over-year decrease of 15.3%. Nevertheless, Quanex leadership says they remain positive about future returns based on the encouraging fundamentals of the residential market.

Single-Family Construction Slowdown Less Pronounced in Lower Density Markets

According to the NAHB’s Home Building Geography index, the single-family home construction slowdown is less pronounced in less dense markets, as compared to metro areas. Market headwinds like interest rates and increased costs have driven down building in the largest and densest geographic regions.

RESNET Releases 2023 Statistical Abstract Trends

RESNET has released its annual report on statistical abstract trends in HERS-rated homes that shows data at national and state levels, including a breakdown of the basic characteristics of rated homes and individual building components. 

Low Existing Home Inventory Fueling Interest in New Homes

With limited available housing inventory, new construction will continue to be a significant part of prospective buyers’ searches in the quarters ahead.

Lack of Resales Provides Boost to New Home Sales in April

Sales of single-family homes reached the highest rate in April 2023 since March 2022. But builders continue to wrestle with inventory, supply chain and rising costs.

Single-Family Starts Improve Slightly in April

Overall housing starts in April increased 2.2% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.40 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Limited Existing Inventory Boosts Builder Confidence

Limited existing inventory resulted in a solid gain for builder confidence in May even as the industry continues to face several challenges, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

PGTI Reports Strong Q1 2023 Results

PGT Innovations announced financial results for its first quarter for the period ended April 1, 2023. It delivered strong first quarter results in a challenging macro environment, driven by strength in the repair and remodel channels.

Dodge Momentum Index Declines in April

The Dodge Momentum Index, issued by Dodge Construction Network, fell 5.1 percent in April to 180.9 (2000=100) from the revised March reading of 190.6 after pullback in commercial planning.

AGC: Construction Employment Increases in Metro Areas

Construction employment increased in 259, or 72 percent, of 358 metro areas between March 2022 and March 2023, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America.

FGIA Releases Latest Industry Review and Forecast

The Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance released the FGIA 2022/2023 U.S. Industry Statistical Review and Forecast, which delivers timely information on window, door and skylight market trends and product relationships. 

Home Remodeling Market Projected to Contract by 2024

After more than a decade of continuous growth, annual spending on improvements and repairs to owner-occupied homes is expected to decline by early next year, according to the latest Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity.

Single-Family Starts Improve in March

Single-family production showed signs of a gradual upturn in March as stabilizing mortgage rates and limited existing inventory helped to offset stubbornly high construction costs, building labor shortages, and tightening credit conditions. 

NAHB: Builder Confidence Increases Slightly in April

Builders remained cautiously optimistic in April, for the fourth straight month, as builders gained an edge from a lack of supply on the resale market, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

Homebuilder Remodeling Market Sentiment Edges Up in Q1

The NAHB/Westlake Royal Remodeling Market Index for the first quarter of 2023 posted a reading of 70, edging up one point from the fourth quarter of 2022.

Use of Residential Energy Tax Credits Increases

It appears that taxpayers are taking advantage of new home energy-efficiency related tax credits. A recent Internal Revenue Service data analysis by the National Association of Home Builders indicates that more than 800,000 taxpayers claimed a new home-related energy-efficiency tax incentive.

Report: Aging American Homes Require Investment

Despite a pandemic that boosted remodeling to an unprecedented height of $567 billion in 2022, a new report released by the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies states that the nation’s homes are older today than at any time ever recorded and in growing need of critical replacements and…

New Home Sales Remain Flat in February

Higher mortgage rates and home prices, as well as increased construction costs contributed to lackluster new home sales in February, but signs point to improvement later in the year.

Sustained Rebound for Single-Family Starts Expected

Single-family production remained at an anemic pace in February as builders continue to wrestle with elevated mortgage rates, high construction costs and tightening credit conditions that threaten to be exacerbated by recent turmoil in the banking system.

Builder Confidence Edges Up in March

Although high construction costs and elevated interest rates continue to hamper housing affordability, builders expressed cautious optimism in March as a lack of existing inventory is shifting demand to the new home market.

Quanex Announces First Quarter 2023 Results, Provides 2023 Guidance

Quanex announced its first quarter 2023 results, which include a strong balance sheet and liquidity, improvement in cash provided by operating activities, and integration of LMI Custom Mixing Assets, among more. 

Single-Family Market Share Continues to Shift from Large Population Centers

The latest findings from NAHB's Home Building Geography Index for the fourth quarter of 2022 say nationwide, single-family housing starts have slowed in the past year, with the largest drop on a percentage basis occurring in the most dense counties, where housing costs are highest. 

Window and door stock prices underperform in January

Stock prices of publicly traded window and door companies underperformed the broader market in January, as the W&D Stock Index increased 6.2 percent compared to a 9.2 percent increase for the S&P 500.

New Home Sales Up in January but Higher Rates Signal Further Weakness

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in January increased 7.2 percent to a 670,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from an upwardly revised reading in December, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

JELD-WEN Reports Fourth-Quarter Results and Establishes 2023 Guidance

Jeld-Wen released its fourth-quarter and year-end financial results as well as guidance for 2023.

PGTI Reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2022 Results

PGT Innovations recently released its financial results for its fourth quarter and fiscal year 2022 results. In FY22, net sales totaled $1.49 billion, an increase of 28%.

Sluggish Start for 2023 Single-Family Production

Overall housing starts decreased 4.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.31 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Cautious Optimism for Builders in February

Builder confidence in the market for newly built, single-family homes in February rose seven points to 42, the strongest reading since September of last year, according to the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

Housing Affordability Hits Record Low But Turning Point Lies Ahead

New data from the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index marks the third straight quarterly record low for housing affordability since the Great Recession, trailing the previous mark of 42.2 percentage in the third quarter and 42.8 percentage set in the second quarter.

Number of U.S. HERS-rated Homes Tops 330,000 Mark

The number of homes that were HERS-rated and received a HERS Index Score in 2022 continued to break historical records. In 2022, there were 337,962 homes HERS-rated in the country. This pushed the total number of homes HERS-rated in the U.S. to date to over 3.6 million.

Multifamily Housing Market Will Weaken in 2023 while Remodeling Market Remains Solid

The remodeling sector remains on solid ground and will do better than the single-family and multifamily markets in 2023.

Home Demand Will Return Later This Year, but Supply Side Will Worsen

The housing recession that began in 2022 will bleed into 2023 as elevated inflation and mortgage rates, coupled with high building material construction costs, continue to take a toll on the housing industry and are expected to push the overall economy into a mild recession this year.

New Home Sales Inch Higher in December but Market Weakness Remains

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in December increased 2.3 percent to a 616,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from a downwardly revised reading in November, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Single-Family Starts Edge Higher

In December, single-family starts edged higher with the weakening in multifamily production as high construction costs and elevated interest rates continue to present affordability challenges, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

Remodeling Market Sentiment Weakened in Fourth Quarter

The National Association of Home Builders' Remodeling Market Index (RMI) for the fourth quarter declined by 17 points compared to the fourth quarter of 2021, with the Current Conditions Index dropping 14 points and the Future Indicators Index dropping 19 points.

Slight Gains in 2023 Outlook for Residential Remodeling

After several years of double-digit gains, expenditures for improvements and repairs to the owner-occupied housing stock are expected to grow only modestly in 2023, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) released by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard…

Builder Confidence Uptick Signals Turning Point for Housing Lies Ahead

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes in January rose four points to 35, according to the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

FGIA Releases New Technical Information Report

A new technical information report by the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance establishes criteria for deflection and permanent deformation gauge device locations to meet uniform deflection and structural load test specifications and requirements specific to horizontal and vertical sliding…

Job Openings Rise in Manufacturing

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey showed a slight increase in manufacturing job openings in November. The November report recorded 779,000 manufacturing job openings, up from 722,000 in October, with increased postings for both durable and nondurable goods firms.

November New Home Sales Up as Interest Rates Fall Back

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in November increased 5.8 percent to a 640,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Single-Family Production Continues to Sag

According to the National Association of Home Builders, single-family housing starts continued to fall in November, the housing market continues to weaken and multifamily permit growth is also weakening.

Total Construction Starts Fall in November

According to Dodge Construction Network, total construction starts fell 18 percent in November. Most sectors are seeing pullback as fewer mega-projects are breaking ground.

December Marks a Full Year of Builder Confidence Declines

Homebuilder sentiment for newly built, single-family homes dropped yet again in December, hitting its lowest reading since mid-2012, with the exception of the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020. This drop marks one full year of declines in builder confidence, according to the NAHB…

Single-Family Construction Slows in Post-Covid Hot Markets

The index shows that large metro outlying counties (exurban areas) registered the largest 12-month decline in single-family production, falling from a 31.9-percent growth rate in the third quarter of 2021 to a -4.4-percent rate in the third quarter of 2022.

Housing Weakness Continues, Builder Confidence Declines for 11 Consecutive Months

The National Association of Home Builders reports the lowest confidence reading since June 2012, with builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes posting its 11th straight monthly decline in November.

Single-Family Housing Contraction Continues in October

The National Association of Home Builders is forecasting declines for single-family construction in 2023, which means economic slowing will expand from the residential construction market into the rest of the economy.

Housing Affordability Falls to More than 10-Year Low as Rising Interest Rates Take a Toll

The housing market and affordability conditions have continued to weaken throughout the year as rising mortgage rates, supply chain bottlenecks and a lack of skilled construction workers continue to push housing costs higher, according to National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing…

Window and Door Stocks Outperform Broader Market in September

Stock prices of publicly traded window and door companies outperformed the broader market in September, as the W&D Stock Index decreased 5.3 percent compared to a 9.6 percent decrease for the S&P 500.

New Home Sales Fall in September

New single-family home sales decreased by about 11 percent in September according to data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. Rising mortgage rates, declining builder sentiment, stubbornly high construction costs and weakening consumer demand are…

Lowe's Survey Finds Pros Remain Optimistic

Lowe's second annual Pro Pulse Survey this year found pros remain optimistic despite a challenging economic backdrop, they expect steady project growth next year and saving time and money is important to their success this coming year.

DEWALT Survey Finds Training Next Generation is Critical Need

According to a newly released DEWALT Powering the Future Survey, nearly half of U.S. contractors believe that training the next generation of workers is the industry’s most critical need. It also found that more than half of U.S. contractors say finding enough skilled workers is one of the biggest…

Harvard Predicts Sharp Slowdown in Home Remodeling

The LIRA projects year-over-year growth in homeowner remodeling and repair spending to shrink from 16.1 percent in 2022 to 6.5 percent by the third quarter of 2023.

Single-family Production Continues to Weaken in September

Single-family housing starts declined further in September as high mortgage rates, ongoing building material production disruptions and flagging demand stemming from rising affordability challenges continue to put a damper on new home production.

HIRI Predicts National Inflation Bulge Will Decelerate Home Improvement Spending Through 2024

HIRI predicts windows, skylights and patio doors will grow by 5.9 percent between 2022 and 2026.

Builder Confidence Down 10 Straight Months as Housing Market Continues to Weaken

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes dropped eight points in October to 38—half the level it was just six months ago—according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

Remodeling Market Sentiment Softened, but Remains Positive

According to the National Associations of Home Builders' most recent Remodeling Market Index, remodelers around the country are seeing more signs of a slowdown in the market due to ongoing labor shortages, high material prices and rising interest rates.

Construction Adds 19,000 Jobs In September

Construction workers now earn over $35 an hour on average, while the sector’s unemployment rate hits 3.4 percent as Construction Association officials call for construction education funding and immigration reforms.

New Home Sales Up in August

New home sales in August were boosted by about 28 percent due to a brief decline in mortgage rates, but sales are expected to move on a downward trend in the months ahead as rates have since moved higher and builder sentiment continues to fall.

Builder Confidence Falls for Ninth Straight Month

According to the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI), builder confidence fell for the ninth straight month as the housing slowdown continues due to elevated interest rates, persistent building material supply chain disruptions and high home prices. 

Current Events Have Strong Impact On Home Improvement Demand, says Report

Modernize Home Services released its annual Homeowner Sentiment Report findings, resulting from a recent survey of thousands of homeowners. The results found most homeowners will compare two or more quotes or bids ahead of selecting a professional, that the high cost of supplies is a major stressor…

Spending on Home Remodeling May Decrease in Mid-2023, says Harvard

Spending for home improvements and repairs is expected to soften during the first half of next year, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.

Construction Job Openings Declined in May

Job openings in the construction industry declined by 6,000 in May, but are up 126,000 compared to May of last year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey.

New Home Sales Increase in May Before Fed’s June Rate Rise

After posting four consecutive monthly declines on rising mortgage rates and worsening affordability conditions, new home sales posted a solid gain in May as some buyers rushed into the market in advance of the Federal Reserve’s June interest rate hike. 

Housing Market Reaching an Inflection Point, Says Harvard

According to The State of the Nation’s Housing 2022, a new report from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, the surge in the prices of gas, food, and other necessities has made matters worse, especially now that most pandemic emergency government supports have ended.

Residential Window, Door Shipments Increased in 2021, Says WDMA Study

Residential window and door shipments increased in 2021 despite supply chain issues and labor shortages. Residential unit shipments (windows, patio and entry doors) were up 3.8 percent or 2.5 million units from 2020. 

Rising Interest Rates, Higher Construction Costs Slow Housing Production

Overall housing starts fell 14.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.55 million units in May from an upwardly revised reading the previous month, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Weakening Builder Confidence Points to Economic Troubles Ahead

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes posted its sixth straight monthly decline in June, falling two points to 67, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

Single-family Home Building Growth Slowing in Large Suburbs

New findings from the National Association of Home Builders Home Building Geography Index show that the rate of year-over-year single-family construction growth in small and large metro urban, suburban and rural regional submarkets slowed in the first quarter of 2022 compared to the same time…

Residential Building Starts Improve in April

Residential building starts rose 4 percent in April to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $462.9 billion. Single family starts gained 1 percent and multifamily starts rose 13 percent.

New Home Sales Down on Rising Interest Rates, Declining Affordability

New home sales posted a double-digit percentage decline in April, falling to their weakest pace in two years, as rising mortgage interest rates and worsening affordability conditions continue to take a toll on the housing market.

Builder Confidence Plunges on Rising Interest Rates, Growing Affordability Woes

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes fell eight points to 69 in May, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. This is the fifth straight month that builder sentiment has declined and the lowest reading since June 2020. 

Home Builders Warn of Significant Affordability Declines

According to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index, 56.9 percent of new and existing homes sold between the beginning of January and end of March were affordable to families earning the U.S. median income of $90,000. While this is up from the 54.2 percent…

Vinyl, Wood Windows Among Top Projects for ROI

Zonda Media has published the 35th annual Cost vs. Value Report, which reveals exterior replacement projects continue the multi-year streak of delivering the best return on investment for homeowners.

HIRI Predicts Continued Growth for Home Improvement Products Market, with Ease in Consumer Spending Through 2026

Rising inflation, reduced real household income and completed projects led HIRI to forecast that overall consumer market sales will increase by 2.8 percent in 2023 to $382.5 billion.

Declining Affordability Conditions Dampen New Home Sales

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in March fell 8.6 percent to a 763,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from an upwardly revised reading in February, according to data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Single-Family Permits Decline in March as Affordability Woes Continue

The single-family housing market continued to show signs of softening in March as permits and starts declined due to rising mortgage interest rates and ongoing supply chain bottlenecks that continue to delay construction projects and raise home building costs.

Builder Confidence Falls as Home Prices, Construction Costs Increase

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes moved two points lower to 77 in April, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. This is the fourth straight month that builder sentiment has declined.

Remodeling Market Remains Stable Year-over-Year

The National Association of Home Builders/Westlake Royal Remodeling Market Index for the first quarter posted a reading of 86, which remained unchanged compared to the first quarter of 2021. The finding is a signal of residential remodelers’ confidence in their markets, for projects of all sizes.

Millennial Home Buyers Want Larger Homes, Survey Shows

According to the Census Quarterly Starts and Completions by Purpose and Design and National Association of Home Builders analysis, the median size of new single-family homes in 2021 was 10 percent higher since the Great Recession (2009) at 2,303 square feet.

New Home Sales Soften in February on Higher Mortgage Rates and Construction Costs

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in February fell 2 percent to a 772,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from a downwardly revised reading in January, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Diminished Future Sales Expectations, Rising Costs Lower Builder Confidence

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes moved two points lower to 79 in March from a downwardly revised reading in February, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. 

February Window and Door Stocks Lag Broader Market

The W&D Stock Index decreased 10.8 percent compared to a 3.8 percent decrease for the S&P 500. These losses pulled in the 12-month return on the W&D Index to 23.3 percent compared to a 12.2 percent increase for the S&P 500.

Delays, Freight Rate Hikes Likely as Ukraine War Disrupts Shipping Operations

The key port cities Odessa and Mariupol in Ukraine have suspended most operations, leaving over 1,000 commercial sailors unable to move cargo containers through the Kerch Straight and the Black Sea. The glass manufacturing and other commercial construction industry sectors that rely on Eastern…

Economist: Construction On-Track for Full Rebound Despite, Russia Sanctions and and Labor Shortfall

Economist Dr. Chris Kuehl spoke at the 2022 Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance Hybrid Annual Conference, offering his perspective about the current strife in Ukraine, the future of economic recovery, the labor shortage, and a construction forecast for the U.S. and Canada. 

Single-Family Growth Peaked in Q2 2021 But Remains Solid

New findings from the National Association of Home Builders Home Building Geography Index show that the rate of year-over-year single-family growth in all small and large metro urban, suburban and rural regional submarkets peaked in the second quarter of 2021.

Rising Material Prices Remain a Concern for Canadian Home Builders

Residential construction output in Canada will grow by 4.8 percent in 2022, following an expansion of 15.4 percent in 2021. 

Supply Chain Issues Continue to Slow Housing Starts

"The market needs more housing, but chronic production bottlenecks, including ongoing price increases for lumber and OSB, continue to raise housing costs and harm housing affordability."

Builder Confidence Eases on Supply-Side Constraints

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes moved one point lower to 82 in February, marking the second straight month that confidence levels have declined by a single point.

Housing Affordability Will Remain a Significant Challenge in 2022

Low existing home inventory and strong buyer demand will keep housing moving forward in 2022 even as builders continue to grapple with ongoing building material production bottlenecks and labor shortages that will limit the pace of construction and keep upward pressure on home prices.

Remodeling Demand Remained Strong in 2021 Despite Supply Chain Problems

The NAHB/Royal Building Products Remodeling Market Index showed continued year-over-year improvement in remodelers' sentiment, with index levels at well above break-even point of 50. 

Job Openings Rise as Manufacturing Slows

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey showed a slight increase in available manufacturing roles in December, while the ISM Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index highlighted a reduction in manufacturing activity between December and January.

New Home Sales Post Solid Gain in December

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in December increased 11.9 percent to an 811,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from a downwardly revised reading in November, according to data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Boom in Home Remodeling May Peak in 2022, Says Harvard

The LIRA projects double-digit gains in annual homeowner renovation and maintenance expenditure will top out in the third quarter of 2022 before beginning a deceleration toward more sustainable rates of growth.

Remodeler Sentiment Continues to Improve Year-over-Year

The Current Conditions Index averaged 89, a four-point increase from the fourth quarter of 2020. All components also posted increases compared to the fourth quarter of last year.

Single-family Starts Post Double-digit Percentage Gain in 2021

Total housing starts for 2021 were 1.60 million, a 15.6 percent gain over the 1.38 million total from 2020. Single-family starts in 2021 totaled 1.12 million, up 13.4 percent from the previous year. Multifamily starts in 2021 were up 22.1 percent compared to the previous year.

Builder Confidence Edges Lower on Inflation Concerns

Growing inflation concerns and ongoing supply chain disruptions snapped a four-month rise in builder sentiment even as consumer demand remains robust.

New Home Sales Jump in November on High Consumer Demand

Driven by strong buyer demand, low existing home inventory and buyers' anticipation of future higher mortgage rates, sales of newly built, single-family homes in November rose 12.4 percent to a 744,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from a downwardly revised reading in October.

Builder Sentiment Strong at Year's End

Builder confidence edged higher for the fourth consecutive month on strong consumer demand and limited existing inventory.

Double-Digit Gains for Single-Family and Multifamily Production in November

Overall housing starts increased 11.8 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.68 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Suburban Shift Eases in the Third Quarter, Vacation Home Markets Strong

The suburban shift for single-family home buying precipitated in large part by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic last year continues, but new data reveals that higher density markets are making a comeback as well.

Supply-Side Disruptions Push Single-Family Production Down in October

Overall housing starts decreased 0.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.52 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Supply-Side Challenges Threaten Housing Affordability

Housing affordability held steady at its lowest level in nearly a decade, as higher home prices offset lower mortgage rates to keep the affordability rate flat in the third quarter of 2021.

W&D Stock Index Outperforms Broader Market in October

The W&D Index increased 12.2 percent compared to a 5.7 percent increase in the S&P 500 and as a result the 39.1 percent return for the S&P 500 has slightly underperformed the W&D Index return of 39.3 percent over the 12 months.

Construction Needs 2.2 Million New Hires from 2022-2024 to Keep Up With Growth

A lack of skilled construction labor is a key limiting factor for improving housing inventory and affordability, according to a new report by the Home Builders Institute.

Lowe’s Pro Survey: Expect Increased Demand through New Year and Beyond

Low Inventory Leads to Solid Gains in New Home Sales

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in September rose 14 percent to an 800,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from a downwardly revised reading in August.

Two-thirds of Homeowners Want to Finance Window Projects, says Modernize Home Services Survey

Single-Family Starts Flat in September, but up 20 Percent Year-to-Date

Single-family housing production held steady in September as strong demand helped to offset ongoing building material supply chain disruptions. Meanwhile, declines in multifamily production helped to push overall housing starts in September down 1.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1…

Strong Demand Boosts Builder Confidence Despite Supply Chain Disruptions

Builder sentiment in the market for newly built single-family homes moved four points higher to 80 in October, according to the National Association of Home Builders /Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. 

Remodeling Industry Confidence Improves Year over Year

The National Association of Home Builders released its NAHB/Royal Building Products Remodeling Market Index for the third quarter, posting a reading of 87, up five points from the third quarter of 2020. The finding is a signal of residential remodelers' confidence in their markets, for projects of…

Number of HERS-Rated Homes Grows in First Three Quarters of 2021

In the first six months of 2021, there were 150,894 homes rated and entered into the RESNET registry. This compares with the 145,961 homes that were rated during the same period in 2020.

HIRI Predicts Overall Home Improvement Product Sales to Continue Growth into 2025

The total market will grow by an additional 2.9 percent from 2023 through 2025, with the consumer market growing by 2.3 percent and the professional market growing by 4.6 percent.

FGIA Releases Update to 2020/2021 Market Studies

Updated report offers adjusted forecast of fenestration industry trends. The changes to forecasts since April have been relatively modest, with positive changes in the residential market as both new housing activity and renovation activity have strengthened.

New Home Sales Edge Higher in August

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in August rose 1.5 percent to a 740,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate from an upwardly revised reading in July, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Single-family Construction Normalizing Even as Starts Edge Lower in August

Single-family starts decreased 2.8 percent to a 1.08 million seasonally adjusted annual rate, but are up 23.8 percent year-to-date. The multifamily sector, which includes apartment buildings and condos, increased 20.6 percent to a 539,000 pace.

Builder Confidence Steadies as Material and Labor Challenges Persist

U.S. Remodeler Index Pushes Higher; Double-digit Revenue Growth Expected

Sentiment among remodeling professionals pushed to even higher levels in the second quarter of 2021, according to the third release of the U.S. Remodeler Index. The index, which surveys remodelers in three vertical markets in all 50 states, registered a confidence level of 75.3, up from a very…

Fastest Home Building Activity Continues in Suburban, Exurban Communities

Residential construction continued to shift toward the suburbs and lower-cost markets, and this trend is especially pronounced within the multifamily sector, according to the latest Home Building Geography Index released by the National Association of Home Builders. 

Smart Windows Market Report Predicts $2.6 Billion in Revenues by 2026

A growing global focus on reducing carbon and greenhouse gas emissions and meeting net-zero mandates will result in demand for a range of technologies such as electrochromics, solar, sensors and software for building controls, according to the latest global smart windows report from industry…

New Home Sales Hold Steady in July

Sales of newly built, single-family homes rose 1 percent in July to a 708,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Housing Starts Down in July on Supply Chain Challenges

Supply chain and labor challenges helped to push overall housing starts down 7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.53 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Builder Confidence at 13-Month Low on Higher Material Costs, Home Prices

Higher construction costs and supply shortages along with rising home prices pushed builder confidence to its lowest reading since July 2020, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. 

J.D. Power Ranks Renewal by Andersen as Highest in Manufacturer Segment

Renewal by Andersen ranks highest in the manufacturer segment, followed by American Craftsman and Milgard. Renewal by Andersen also ranks highest in the retail segment in a tie with The Home Depot. Window World ranks third.

Housing Affordability Plunges on Soaring Material Costs, Rising Home Prices

According to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index, 56.6 percent of new and existing homes sold between the beginning of April and end of June were affordable to families earning the U.S. median income of $79,900.

New Home Sales Fall in June as Supply-Chain Challenges Remain

Sales of newly built, single-family homes fell 6.6 percent in June to a 676,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. 

Housing Starts Increase in June but Concern Grows Over Weakening Permit Numbers

Overall housing starts increased 6.3 percent in June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.64 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. Despite the increase in housing production, there is concern over weakening…

Builder Confidence Edges Lower as Material Challenges Persist

Strong buyer demand helped to offset supply-side challenges relating to building materials, regulation and labor as builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes inched down one point to 80 in July, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing…

Remodeling Poised to Strengthen Further, says Harvard

Annual gains in homeowner improvement and maintenance spending are set to accelerate in the second half of the year and remain elevated through mid-year 2022, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity by the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of…

Remodeling Industry Confidence Improves Year over Year

The National Association of Home Builders released its Remodeling Market Index for the second quarter, posting a reading of 87, up 14 points from the second quarter of 2020. The finding is a signal of residential remodelers' confidence in their markets, for projects of all sizes.

Construction Employment Declines in June as Firms Continue to Face Material, Labor Shortages

Construction employment declined by 7,000 between May and June as the industry still employs 238,000 fewer people than before the pandemic, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of government data. Association officials say that job losses in the nonresidential…

Demand for Larger Homes Grew Over the Past Year, AIA Survey Finds

For the first time in five years, homeowner interest in larger homes increased over the past 12 months, according to data from the American Institute of Architects’ Home Design Trends Survey.

New Home Sales Drop in May Amid Rising Housing Costs

New home sales fell to the lowest pace in a year, with prices jumping 18 percent on a year-over-year basis, due to the high costs and uncertain availability of building materials, lots and labor.

Single-Family Starts Steady in May

Overall housing starts increased 3.6 percent in May to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.57 million units off of a downwardly revised April reading, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. 

Vinyl Windows Recoup Nearly 70 Percent of Costs, According to Cost vs. Value Report

Remodeling Magazine's recently released 2021 Cost vs. Value Report showed vinyl window replacement project recoup 68.6 percent of its costs, down from 72.3 percent last year.

Rising Material Challenges, Declining Builder Sentiment

Rising material prices and supply chain shortages resulted in builder confidence dipping to its lowest level since August 2020.

WDMA Releases 2021 U.S. Industry Market Study

The 2021 market study report includes an analysis of the attitudinal drivers of homeowners and contractors, key macro drivers in the residential and commercial markets and a special section focusing on the impact the pandemic had on new construction and the remodeling marketplace during 2020.

HERS-Rated Homes Increased 24 Percent Year Over Year

RESNET released its "2021 Trends in HERS Rated Homes” report. The report revealed HERS Raters rated 299,755 homes in 2020, a 24 percent increase over the number of ratings in 2019 and the ninth straight year-over-year increase in HERS ratings.

Demand for Homeownership Strengthens Year over Year

More Americans now indicate they are actively trying to buy a home than compared to a year ago, says the National Association of Home Builders.

Report Ranks Florida as the Most Prepared State for Hurricanes

In the 2021 Rating the States rankings, Florida again takes the top spot for strongest building code with Virginia following one point behind on the 100-point scale.

Home Building at Fastest Pace in Areas With Shortest Commute Times

Home building across the nation expanded the fastest in places with the shortest commute times, according to the quarterly National Association of Home Builders Home Building Geography Index.

New Home Sales Fall as Home Prices Jump

Rising building materials costs and low inventory have caused new home sales prices to jump 20 percent on a year-over-year basis. Sales of newly built, single-family homes fell 5.9 percent.

Housing Production Falls as Costs Climb

Housing production decreased 9.5 percent in April to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.57 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. 

May Builder Confidence Holds Steady as Concerns About Material Prices Grow

Builder confidence held stable in May, despite growing concerns over the price and availability of most building materials, including lumber. The latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index shows that builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family…

Window and Door April 2021 Stock Index

Stock prices of publicly traded window and door companies outpaced the broader market in April, as the W&D Stock Index increased 6.4 percent compared to a 5.7 percent increase for the S&P 500.

Regulatory Costs Add Nearly $94K to the Cost of a New Single-family Home

Housing Affordability Weakens as Challenges Lie Ahead

Housing affordability weakened slightly during the first quarter of 2021 as rising material costs and supply shortages along with expected increases in mortgage rates stemming from a growing economy are likely to exacerbate affordability challenges in the year ahead.

Windows a Leading Return in Remodeling, According to 2021 Cost vs. Value Report

Zonda Media released its 34th annual Cost vs. Value Report that found exterior improvement projects continuing a multi-year trend of providing the greatest return on investment for homeowners.

Rising Lumber Prices Add Nearly $36,000 to New Home Prices

Lumber prices have nearly tripled over the past 12 months, causing the price of an average new single-family home to increase by $35,872, according to new analysis by the National Association of Home Builders. 

FGIA Industry Review and Forecast Shows Growth in Residential Products

Residential windows, doors and skylights all experienced growth in 2020 versus 2019, according to the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance's newly released FGIA 2020/2021 U.S. Industry Statistical Review and Forecast. 

High Consumer Demand Fuels Jump in New Home Sales in March

Sales of newly built, single-family homes rose 20.7 percent from an upwardly revised February number, to a 1.02 million seasonally adjusted annual rate.

Construction Industry Faces Shortfall of 200,000 Workers

The construction industry faces a shortfall of 200,000 workers, according to a new report released by the Home Builders Institute.

Housing Starts Record Fastest Pace Since 2006

Housing production rebounded in March as buyer demand remains solid due to low mortgage interest rates. Overall housing starts increased 19.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.74 million units.

Remodeling Upturn To Continue Into 2022, Says Harvard

Growth in improvement and repair expenditures to owner-occupied homes is expected to remain solid throughout the year and into 2022, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) by the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.

Builder Confidence Edges Up as Strong Demand Offsets Supply Challenges

Strong buyer demand pushed builder confidence up in April even as builders continued to grapple with rising lumber prices and supply chain issues and consumers faced higher home prices due to a lack inventory.

Window and Door March 2021 Stock Index

Stock prices of publicly traded window and door companies substantially outpaced the broader market in March, as the W&D Stock Index increased 15.8 percent compared to a 1.8 percent increase for the S&P 500.

Remodeling Industry Confidence Up Strongly Year over Year

The National Association of Home Builders released its Remodeling Market Index in the first quarter of 2021, posting a reading of 86, up 38 points from the first quarter of 2020. 

Interest in New Homes Increases Among First-Time Buyers

As the housing industry celebrates New Homes Month in April, recent data from the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, reveals that first-time home buyers account for almost half (43 percent) of the new home market in 2021, up from 32 percent in 2018.

Contractor Index Shows Increasing Optimism

The Farnsworth Group's Q1 - 2021 Farnsworth Contractor Index shows increasing optimism across the board, though not yet to pre-pandemic levels.

Pandemic a Boon for U.S. Home Improvement, according to Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies 2021 Improving America's Housing Report

While the U.S. economy shrank by 3.5 percent in 2020, spending on home improvements and repairs grew more than 3 percent, to nearly $420 billion, as households modified living spaces for work, school and leisure in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Improving America's Housing 2021, a…

February Home Sales Down to Lowest Level Since May 2020

Higher interest rates, supply shortages and rising material prices, particularly for lumber, put a damper on new home sales in February. Sales of newly built, single-family homes fell 18.2 percent to a 775,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate.

Housing Production Weakens in February

Builder Sentiment Falls Amid Higher Material Costs, Interest Rates

Despite high buyer traffic and strong demand, builder sentiment fell in March as rising lumber and other material prices pushed builder confidence lower.

U.S. Remodeler Index Signals a 10 Percent Market Surge in 2021

A new index of residential remodeling activity, the U.S. Remodeler Index, offers key insights from a surging remodeling and home improvement market, spurred in part by the COVID-19 pandemic

Record Numbers of Homes Were HERS Rated in 2020

Despite a pandemic and an economic slowdown, 2020 broke the record of the number of homes that were HERS Rated, with 299,755 homes in the U.S. being HERS rated and issued a HERS Index Score.

Single-family Construction Overperforms in Suburbia

The suburban shift in home building to meet growing buyer preferences for lower density, lower cost markets stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic that was first reported in the second quarter National Association of Home Builders Home Building Geography Index has continued throughout the rest of 2020.

Priced Out Study from NAHB Highlights the Housing Affordability Crisis

A new study by the National Association of Home Builders found that a $1,000 increase in the U.S. median new home price of $346,757 would push 153,967 households out of the market. Based on their incomes, these households would be able to qualify for a mortgage to purchase the home before the price…

Construction Starts Down to Begin 2021

Total construction starts dropped 4 percent in January to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $794.3 billion. Residential starts were four percent lower in January, nonresidential building starts were flat and nonbuilding starts dropped 10 percent.

New Home Sales Higher in January, but Affordability Issues Loom

Strong demand stemming from low interest rates, favorable demographics and a suburban shift for home building to smaller, more affordable housing markets helped to lift new home sales in January, but rising lumber and material costs threaten to blunt this momentum.

Construction Spending to be Solid This Year, but Unknowns Remain Around Economic Recovery

Keynote speaker and economist Dr. Chris Kuehl. Kuehl, a managing director of Armada Corporate Intelligence, offered a positive outlook on financial recovery, particularly in comparison to the long road taken in 2008 by the U.S. during the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance Virtual Annual…

Farnsworth Group Updates Monthly COVID Home Improvement Tracker

The Farnsworth Group updated its COVID Home Improvement Tracker for the DIY and contractor markets.

Housing Production Softens as Construction Headwinds Pick Up in January

Housing production softened in January as rising lumber prices continue to affect the housing industry. Overall housing starts decreased 6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.58 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S…

Builder Confidence Rises as High Demand Offsets Higher Costs

Strong buyer demand helped offset supply chain challenges and a surge in lumber prices as builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes inched up one point in February, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. 

Window and Door Stock Index

Stock prices of publicly traded window and door companies outpaced the broader market in January, as the W&D Stock Index increased 3.1 percent compared to a 0.4 percent increase for the S&P 500.

Residential Remodeling Fully Recovered from the Beginning of COVID-19

Spending on residential improvements will continue to grow at a healthy pace over the next two years, according to experts speaking at an online press conference hosted by the National Association of Home Builders Remodelers during the 2021 International Builders' Show virtual experience.

New Home Sales Hold Steady in December

Higher home prices stemming from rising lumber and other building material costs, as well as a lack of inventory due to a shortage of buildable lots, offset solid demand for new home sales in December. 

Farnsworth Group Relaunches COVID-19 Tracker

The Farnsworth Group relaunched its COVID Home Improvement Tracker for DIYers and contractors. 

Home Remodeling to See Strong Growth This Year

Annual gains in spending for improvements and repairs to owner-occupied homes are expected to be modestly higher in 2021 compared to last year, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity released by the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard…

New Home Sales Slip Month-Over-Month On Low Inventory, But Grew 36 Percent Year-Over-Year

Zonda released the New Home Pending Sales Index for December 2020, which shows pending sales decreased month-over-month but increased year-over-year across the U.S. 

Housing Starts End 2020 Strong

While housing starts ended the year on a strong note, rising lumber prices and increasing regulatory cost concerns could affect future production. Led by a double-digit gain in single-family starts, overall housing starts increased 5.8 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.67 million…

Builder Confidence Drops on Rising Material Prices, Upsurge in COVID-19 Cases

Rising material costs led by a huge upsurge in lumber prices along with a resurgence of the coronavirus across much of the nation pushed builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes down three points to 83 in January, according to the latest NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market…

Remodeling Industry Confidence Strong Across All Projects

The National Association of Home Builders released its Remodeling Market Index for the fourth quarter of 2020, posting a reading of 79. The finding is a signal of residential remodelers' strong confidence in their markets, for projects of all sizes.

New Home Sales Continue Strong Fall Season

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in October dipped 0.3 percent to 999,000 from an upwardly revised September number, according to data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. Despite the monthly decline, the October rate is 41.5 percent higher…

October New Home Sales Up 45.8 Percent Year-Over-Year

Zonda released the New Home Pending Sales Index for October 2020, which shows pending sales increased month-over-month and year-over-year across the U.S. The index is based on the number of new home sales contracts signed across the country.

Single-family Starts at Highest Pace Since Spring of 2007

Led by solid gains in single-family production, overall housing starts increased 4.9 percent in October to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.53 million units, according to a report from according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Sales Growth Lifts Builder Confidence to New Record High

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes increased five points to 90 in November, shattering the previous all-time high of 85 recorded in October, according to the latest NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

Survey Details Homeowners' Plans for Winter Improvement

A recent survey from Modernize details how homeowners anticipate spending the winter months, including home improvement plans. 

Marvin Survey: Homeowners Value Natural Light, Fresh Air

The well-being movement continues to grow and spark new ways homeowners think about and incorporate wellness into their spaces, according to a new survey conducted on behalf of Marvin. 

Housing Affordability Near Two-Year Low Amid Lack of Inventory, Higher Prices

Record-low mortgage rates were not enough to offset inventory shortages and rising home prices as housing affordability continued to decline in the third quarter of 2020, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index.

New Home Sales at Highest Pace Since 2006

Sales of newly built, single-family homes in August topped the 1 million mark and reached their highest pace since September 2006. Sales increased 4.8 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.01 million units, according to data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and…

New Home Sales Up 39.6 Percent Year-Over-Year

Meyers Research released the New Home Pending Sales Index for August 2020. The New Home PSI, backed by data from Zonda and Metrostudy, shows pending sales increased month-over-month and year-over-year across the U.S.

DOL Revises Regulations for Paid Leave under FFCRA

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division revised regulations that implement the paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave provisions of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

Single-Family Housing Continues Growth in August

Single-family starts showed continued growth in August but overall housing production fell 5.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.42 million units due to a double-digit percentage decline in multifamily production, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and…

Builder Confidence Hits All-Time High, Lumber Risks Remain

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes increased five points to hit an all-time high of 83 in September, according to the latest NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. The previous highest reading of 78 in the 35-year history of the series was set last month and also…

Home Building Shifts to the Suburbs

The second quarter National Association of Home Builders Home Building Geography Index shows a suburban shift for consumer home buying preferences.

July New Home Sales Reach a 13-Year High

Sales of newly built, single-family homes rose to its highest pace since 2006, up 13.9 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 901,000 units in July.

Meyers Research: Pending New Home Sales Jump 32.7% Year-Over-Year

Meyers Research's New Home Pending Sales Index, backed by data from Zonda and Metrostudy, shows pending sales increased month-over-month and year-over-year across the U.S. The New Home PSI came in at 150.0 for July, representing a 32.7 percent increase from July 2019. On a month-over-month basis,…

Housing Starts Post Solid Gains in July

Single-family and multifamily starts each posted solid gains in July, with total housing production up 22.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.50 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Commerce Department. This is the highest production…

Builder Confidence Matches All-time High on Record Traffic

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes increased six points to 78 in August, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. 

Renewal by Andersen Tops J.D. Power Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study

In this year's J.D. Power Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study, Renewal by Andersen ranked highest in the manufacturer and retail segment. Infinity by Marvin and Champion ranked second and third, respectively, in the manufacturer category while Window World ranked second in the retail segment.

Pending New Home Sales Hit an Index High in June

Meyers Research's New Home PSI came in at 132.2 for June, representing an 18.2 percent increase from June 2019. On a month-over-month basis, new home sales rose by 17.5 percent from May. 

New Home Sales Reach Highest Level Since Great Recession

Sales of newly built, single-family homes rose to their highest level since the Great Recession, up 13.8 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 776,000 units in June, according to data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Single-Family Starts and Permits Post Double-Digit Gains in June

Led by solid single-family production, total housing starts increased 17.3 percent in June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.19 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Commerce Department.

Pandemic Will Affect Home Remodeling Spending Through Next Year, says LIRA

Expenditures for improvements and repairs to owner-occupied homes are expected to slow by the middle of next year as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity, released by the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing…

NAHB: Remodeling Market Index Shows Optimism Despite COVID-19

The National Association of Home Builders released its Remodeling Market Index in the second quarter of 2020, posting a reading of 73.

Builder Confidence Rallies to Pre-pandemic Level in July

Builder confidence in the market for newly-built single-family homes jumped 14 points to 72 in July, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. The HMI now stands at the solid pre-pandemic reading in March before the outbreak affected much of the…

NAHB, NAR Launch Joint Home Performance Counts Initiative

The National Association of Home Builders and the National Association of Realtors launched a new joint initiative, Home Performance Counts, designed to help consumers better understand the high-performance home marketplace, defined as homes that prioritize comfort, durability, wellness and…

Hanley Wood and NAHB Announce New Data Platform Focusing on Local Markets

Hanley Wood/Meyers Research and the National Association of Home Builders announced the future rollout of a new home building data platform available to NAHB's 140,000 members and powered by Zonda.

New Home Sales Rise in May

Sales of newly built, single-family homes rose 16.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 676,000 units in May from a downwardly revised reading in April, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Single-family Permits, Housing Starts Increase in May

Single-family permits posted an 11.9 percent gain in May, while total housing starts increased 4.3 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 974,000 units, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Commerce Department.

Builder Confidence Surges in June

In a sign that housing stands poised to lead a post-pandemic economic recovery, builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes jumped 21 points to 58 in June, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

FGIA Offers Hurricane Resources, FAQs as Season Begins

Hurricane season officially begins June 1 each year. To help those in the industry both prepare and share relevant information with consumers, the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance prepared a series of hurricane-related resources.

WDMA Releases US Industry Market Study

The Window & Door Manufacturers Association released the WDMA 2020 U.S. Industry Market Study. The report is based on industry input for product shipments in 2019 and was prepared, researched and analyzed by The Farnsworth Group.

Construction Continues its Upward Trajectory

The most recent data from The Farnsworth Group's weekly COVID-19 tracker indicates slow, steady progress in contractor activity.

Coronavirus Likely to Add Momentum to Increased Home Building in Smaller Markets

The COVID-19 pandemic is likely to hasten a housing trend already taking place across the nation--residential construction activity that is expanding at a more rapid rate in lower density markets such as smaller cities and rural areas.

FGIA Releases 2019/2020 Market Studies, Offers Forecast of Fenestration Industry Trends

The Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance released the “FGIA 2019/2020 Study of the U.S. Market for Windows, Doors and Skylights.” This bi-annual report delivers timely information on residential and nonresidential market trends and product relationships for both residential and nonresidential…

Housing Industry Poised to Lead Nation's Economic Recovery

Recent housing data indicate the important role the residential construction industry will play in leading the U.S. economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, according to the National Association of Home Builders. 

Houzz: Major Home Improvement Projects Continue During Coronavirus Pandemic

More than half of homeowners, 52 percent, who were in the midst of a home renovation or design project when the coronavirus pandemic was declared on March 11, 2020, were able to continue with their renovations, according to a report from Houzz.

New Home Sales Hold Steady in April

In a sign that the housing market is stabilizing in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, sales of newly built, single-family homes rose 0.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 623,000 units in April, according to data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S.…

Builder Confidence Posts Solid Gain Following Last Month's Historic Drop

In a signal that the housing market is showing signs of stabilizing and gradually moving forward in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes increased seven points in May, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/…

Home Construction Declines in April

In a sign of the growing economic toll from the coronavirus pandemic, total housing starts decreased 30.2 percent in April to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 891,000 units, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Commerce Department. 

Construction Starts Show Sharp Contraction in April

Total construction starts declined 25 percent from March to April to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $572.2 billion as COVID-19 and economic recession hit the construction sector, according to Dodge Data & Analytics. In April, residential building dropped 25 percent.

Remodeling Spending to Decline Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Owner expenditures for home renovations and repairs are expected to decline at least through the first quarter of next year due to fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity by the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies…

New Home Sales Fall 15.4 Percent in March on Coronavirus Concerns

Sales of newly built, single-family homes fell 15.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 627,000 units in March, coming off a downward revision in February, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Housing Starts Down in March on Coronavirus Effects

Reflecting the growing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, total housing starts decreased 22.3 percent in March from a downwardly revised February reading to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.22 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Commerce…

Builder Confidence Posts Historic Decline Amid Pandemic

Reflecting the growing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes plunged 42 points in April to 30, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.

New Home Sales Data Shows Housing on Strong Footing Prior to COVID-19 Concerns

Sales of newly built, single-family homes fell 4.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 765,000 units in February, coming off a sharp upward revision in January.

Single-Family Housing Starts Up in February, but Challenges Lie Ahead Due to Coronavirus

Total housing starts decreased 1.5 percent in February from an upwardly revised January reading to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.60 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Commerce Department. Meanwhile, overall permits declined 5.5 percent to 1…

Housing Production Shows Solid Start to 2020

Total housing starts decreased 3.6 percent in January from an upwardly revised December reading to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.57 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Commerce Department. Meanwhile, overall permits surged to a 13-year high.

Houzz Study Reports Positive Sentiment Among Home Renovation Professionals in 2020

Houzz Inc. released the 2020 Houzz U.S. State of the Industry, which provides an outlook on 2020 and review of 2019 performance for residential renovation and design businesses based on data reported by more than 3,000 professionals in the Houzz community. Companies across all industry sectors have…

Builder Confidence Remains Solid in February

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes edged one point lower in February, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. The last three monthly readings mark the highest sentiment levels since December 2017. 

FGIA Releases New Document for Determining THERM Finite Element Modeling Surface Temperatures

The Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance released a new publication addressing aspects of the finite element thermal modeling process often used to predict interior surface temperatures on fenestration including non-residential windows, terrace and patio doors, curtain wall, storefront and…

High Performance Building Practices Prevalent in the Residential Home Building Market

Home builders across the country are prioritizing high-performance building practices in their projects, regardless if they consider the home they are building to be green, according to new research published in the 2020 Green Single Family and Multifamily Homes SmartMarket Brief.

2019 New Home Sales Up 10 Percent Over Previous Year

Sales of newly built, single-family homes declined 0.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 694,000 units in December, coming off a downward revision in November, according to newly released data by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Single-family Starts Will Gain Ground in 2020

Single-family starts should continue on a gradual, upward trajectory in 2020, fueled by solid job growth and low mortgage rates that will keep demand firm, according to economists speaking at the International Builders' Show in Las Vegas.

Residential Remodeling Spending Growth Projected Over Next Two Years

Spending on residential improvements will continue to grow over the next two years at a gradual pace, according to experts at a press conference hosted by the National Association of Home Builders Remodelers.

Remodelers' Confidence Increases in Fourth Quarter of 2019

The National Association of Home Builders' Remodeling Market Index posted a reading of 58 in the fourth quarter of 2019, up three points from the previous quarter.

Housing Starts Finish 2019 With a 13-year High

Total housing starts increased 16.9 percent in December to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.61 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Commerce Department. This is a 13-year high for housing starts.

Builder Confidence Begins Year Strong as Single-family Growth Continues

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes edged one point lower in January, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. The last two monthly readings mark the highest sentiment levels since July of 1999. 

Demand for Glass in Windows and Doors May Increase

Demand for glass used in windows and doors is forecast to increase 4.3 percent per year from $3.6 billion in 2018 to $4.4 billion in 2023, according to Freedonia Group’s study, Window & Door Components. 

Builder Confidence Ends Year Strong on Solid Economic Fundamentals

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes increased five points in December off an upwardly revised November reading, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.