These are uncertain times in the housing and home improvement industry, especially for arenas that may be considered non-essential to consumers, such as fence, deck & rail (FDR) products. This SBI report covers the market for residential FDR products made from wood, metal, vinyl, plastic and concrete. While many market studies strive to analyze market sizes and dynamics from the “sell side” perspective by attempting to measure the revenues earned by product and service vendors of materials, this study also focuses strongly on the “buy side” of the market by looking at indicators of demand among builders and consumers. This is key, as the FDR market is so closely tied to residential housing and economic issues affecting buyers.

SBI estimates that the residential FDR market reached a record $11.9 billion in 2006; however, 2007 proved to be a tough year for the industry as homeowners reigned in spending and homebuilders pared back on construction. While there are some factors that may help lessen the blow felt by the housing and economic slump, such as lower interest rates and an unending consumer desire to spend on home improvements and outdoor living, they are not strong enough drivers to cause a turnaround in the near term. The market is likely to continue to correct downward into 2008, but should begin to pick back up thereafter.

The report further explores economic, housing, consumer and product trends, as well as consumer home improvement activity, distribution channels and the competitive environment affecting domestic, residential FDR product demands. The report also profiles major marketers, along with manufacturer strategies to maximize growth and profitability.

Data were obtained from government sources, trade associations and publications, business journals, company literature, investment reports and interviews with industry stakeholders. In most cases, historical data are provided for 1998 through 2007, with forecast data from 2008 to 2012. Market size statistics are derived from U.S. Department of Commerce and other data sources, and are augmented by SBI estimates. Simmons Market Research Bureau’s spring 2007 survey, based on a sample of 24,136 respondents, provides the primary research data on consumer remodeling habits and home improvement expenditures.

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