There is a global shift away from traditional construction methods and a growing trend towards the use of Cold Formed Steel (also known as Light Gauge Steel) in construction is obvious. Contributing to this trend are social, political, economic and environmental forces, combined with technology and the growing scarcity and expense of skilled labour. This global shift is particularly relevant in the USA, in light of recent political change.
For the CFS industry in the USA, the economic outlook looks extremely positive. With a new president in the driver’s seat and his proposed 10 year, US$1 trillion infrastructure plan, the demand for CFS framing and construction looks to be on the increase.
A recent article reporting research by the Thompson Research Group for the Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) explains how although non-residential construction is close to what would historically have been thought of as a peak, it’s expected that the growth will continue, in response to the new infrastructure plan.
And with its design-led construction process, computer-automated manufacturing and ease of installation, CFS framing is ideally suited for the rapid, lasting construction that this plan will need. The future for the CFS industry in the USA couldn’t look better.
The research not only indicates an optimistic outlook for 2017 it also shows an encouraging outlook for 2018 and 2019, particularly if gauged off prior experience.
The Thompson Research Group mentions that there are other indicating factors for a period of positive growth ahead:
- 46% of the contractors surveyed had increased their bidding activity, especially in the healthcare, education, roading and data industries.
- The number of projects keeps on increasing, even if it is at a slightly slower pace.
SFIA and Thompson Research Group
In order to give some context, in the USA, SFIA represents the steel framing industry. And Thompson Research Group are an independent equity research company that focuses on the construction industries.
Are you ready?
So, with all evidence pointing towards a bright and rosy immediate future for the CFS industry in America, the obvious question that all of us, as members of the global LGS community should be asking is “are we, and our businesses, ready to capitalise on the possible worldwide increase in popularity of CFS construction?”
As 2017 begins, it’s a tantalising question to ask ourselves.
Want to find out more about the advantages of CFS as a construction method and in particular, how the FRAMECAD System will drive ROI and value for your business? Download our eBook for free today.
