Global siding demand to rise

The demand for exterior siding is expected to rebound from low levels in 2008, as residential construction grows in developing countries, according to a new study by the Freedonia Group. The Cleveland-based market research firm forecasted a 2.6% annual increase in demand worldwide through 2013, with higher increases (over 3%) in the Africa and Mideast regions.

In Latin America, Brazil and Colombia are expected to make the largest contributions to growth, according to "World Siding." The market in Eastern Europe will expand at a slower rate due to a “marked deceleration in residential construction activity,” the study said.

Demand for masonry, stone and concrete products will remain strong through 2013, because of their desirability in high-end applications. The use of brick, tile and stucco is projected to grow more moderately.

The use of fiber cement siding is expected to increase in a number of countries, including China and India, as well as the United States. An anticipated recovery of the U.S. housing market is also expected to push sales of vinyl siding from 2008 to 2013, according to the report.