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[January 2010]
US Decorative Tile Demand Projected to Increase
‘Decorative Tile’, a new study from The Freedonia Group Inc (Cleveland, OH, USA), says that US demand for decorative tile is forecast to increase by 4.4 percent per year to 3.3 billion square feet in 2013.
Flooring applications accounted for 81% of total tile demand in 2008 and will continue to spur demand for decorative tile as consumer preferences shift away from carpets and rugs. Flooring demand for tile is expected to increase by 4.5% annually through to 2013, reaching 2.7 billion square feet. Gains will be boosted by the residential market as housing completions rebound and consumer spending on improvement and repair projects increases.
The study points out that foreign trade plays a crucial role in the industry. In 2008, 74% of all tile sold in the US was imported. Most imported tile is produced in countries with low labour costs and good access to inexpensive raw materials. However, imports of high-end tiles from countries such as Italy also account for a considerable share of overall demand.
The residential construction market will generate the most rapid gains in tile demand. Advances will be spurred by a rebound in housing completions from the low levels experienced in 2008. Further gains will be promoted by spending on kitchen and bathroom renovation projects. The non-residential building construction market for tile will see slower growth than the residential market. Advances will mainly be derived from the improvements and repairs market as building owners and property managers replace worn and older floors with tile surfaces. Designers and architects will opt for tile due to its durability, minimal maintenance requirements and slip resistance.
The study predicts that porcelain and natural stone tiles will account for the fastest gains of all tile types through to 2013. Demand for porcelain tile will be driven by its aesthetic advantages. Porcelain tile is more durable than standard ceramic tile and can be fired to resemble natural stone, making it a less costly alternative to genuine stone tiles. Demand for natural stone tiles will be spurred by interest for stone surfaces in mid-range and high-end residences. However, ceramic tile will continue to account for the vast majority of tile demand in both value and area terms through to 2013, primarily due to its low cost.
Decorative Tile runs to 282 pages and is available for US$4,800 from The Freedonia Group.
ENDS