Windows and Doors Market Trends

Growth Drivers  

• Urbanization and housing initiatives in developing economies: Population expansion and the movement to urban areas are placing pressure on the need for affordable housing and urban development. India’s Prime Minister’s affordable housing scheme called Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana has aimed to deliver 11.8 million homes to the economically disadvantaged. This rapid increase in the construction of houses considerably increases the demand for modern doors and windows. Vietnam, Indonesia, and portions of Africa are experiencing a similar level of activity under government-led urban renewal initiatives. When developers are seeking to bring in more projects in less time, there is a trend toward prefabricated and UPVC window systems. These trends make emerging markets some of the most promising areas of growth in the next decade.
• Energy-efficiency regulations and green building certifications: Concerns regarding the effects of climate change and the steady rise in the cost of electricity have boosted demand for energy-efficient fenestration products. The U.S Department of Energy revealed that buildings are responsible for 40% of the total energy used across the U.S. In October 2024, Western Window Systems introduced its Series 8000 Vantage Line that meets Energy Star 7 and California Title 24 requirements. These innovations assist in improving comfort and ensure that builders and homeowners meet the required energy standards set by the government. LEED and BREEAM certifications for green buildings are further leading to the specification of better building products. Product lines are being redesigned based on thermal performance, solar control, and airtightness.
• Smart home integration and consumer personalization: With the increasing adoption of smart homes, consumers expect an interconnected and automated system in every aspect of their homes, including doors and windows. In February 2024, Marvin launched Marvin Connected Home, a smart window and door automation system that works with Alexa and Control. These control systems are for lighting, air flow, and shading and can be operated by voice or through a schedule and are in line with wellness design and occupant-responsive architecture. Personalization is becoming one of the key areas of focus in the digital business, and smart technologies are at the core of it. Leading brands are also incorporating sensors for predictive maintenance and security purposes. Incorporation with smart HVAC and lighting systems is now an essential standard.

Challenges

• Shortage of labor and skilled installation issues: One of the major challenges the industry has been grappling with is the scarcity of skilled installers and labor force. As per the National Association of Home Builders (2023), 77% of construction firms in the U.S. are struggling to find skilled workers. This hampers project schedules and increases installation costs, which is a blow to window and door makers who depend on the timely execution of their projects. Manufacturers are retaliating with more accessible modular systems and upskilling programs, but the gaps persist. This labor issue is most apparent in the retrofit and custom-installation categories. However, workforce stabilization is crucial for scaling up premium solutions.
• Supply chain disruptions and material availability: Material acquisition difficulties persist due to the complexity of the materials required, such as the low-emissivity glass, reinforced frames, and sustainable polymers. The pandemic disrupted international sourcing, and its impact is still evident in the delays in delivery. Manufacturers are experiencing increasing prices and longer delivery times for essential materials used in the production process, such as aluminum, coatings, and adhesives. Some suppliers are returning to their home country to reduce the impact of fluctuations or opening a regional warehouse. However, constrained supply and supply volatility continue to exert pressure on inventory balances. Long-term success depends on having a diversified approach to sourcing and the ability to manage inventory effectively.