2013 North American Market Outlook for EWPFriday 31 May 2013 Growth in wood production, including a 17 percent boost in I-joist manufacturing is expected as the North American economy and housing continue to improve.The small but positive uptick in the economy and residential construction closed 2012 on an optimistic note for the first time since the recession began, and that slow-but-steady growth is expected to continue through 2013. With indicators pointing to rising housing starts through the year and into 2014, APA-The Engineered Wood Association predicts a second straight year of growth in all four of the wood product sectors it represents. “Last year saw across-the-board increases in structural panels, I-joists, glulam, and LVL. In 2013, not only will that trend continue, but at a slightly faster pace in most cases,” said Craig Adair, APA’s market research director. “Residential construction will drive much of that growth, with pent-up demand for housing, moderately rising house prices, and growing consumer confidence having the most influence.” Wood products demand is expected to accelerate as rapid housing growth is followed by renewed repair and remodelling energy, an upturn in the non-residential construction cycle, and industrial demand that increases with consumer spending and higher GDP growth. Domestic (U.S. and Canada) production of OSB and plywood is expected to reach 30.5 billion square feet in 2013, a 10 percent rise over 2012. Glulam is predicted to see a 10 percent increase over 2012, reaching 248 million board feet. The growth is due entirely to housing, with little support from non-residential. Growth in the I-joist market is forecast around 17 percent in 2013 to 651 million linear feet, slightly slower than 2012’s 22 percent increase. Most of the gains will come from housing, with raised-floor construction continuing to provide a notable boost. Increased housing starts also will drive demand for LVL, the majority of which is used for beams, headers, and rimboard. LVL production should reach 54.9 million cubic feet in 2013, a 10 percent growth over 2012. More >>. |
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