According to the latest Construction Industry Forecast from Glenigan , commercial project starts are expected to see an increase of approximately 8 % in the next 12 months , and then a further 7 % in 2025 . The Glenigan report also suggests a 4 % increase in private housing project starts in 2024 and an 11 % increase in 2025 . Whilst we ’ d all like to see growth in both commercial projects and private housing developments , the latest Construction Products Association ( CPA ) forecast suggests a marginal fall of -0.3 % in construction output in 2024 , which includes no growth in private housing for either new build or repair , maintenance and improvement .

In addition , the latest Insight Data report shows a concerning decline in the overall number of fabricators and installers over the past five years . However , the demand for aluminium windows and doors looks set to continue , with the number of aluminium fabricators continuing to increase , standing at 921 in 2023 . This is a good sign for the aluminium windows and doors supply chain .

Whilst the economic backdrop is one of further uncertainty , Reynaers will once again rise to the challenge as we embark on 2024 , developing innovative solutions to support the growth of our customer base .

Future Homes Standard

Great strides have been made in increasing the thermal efficiency of window and door systems to cut energy use and support global efforts to reach net zero . Aluminium is already playing a key role , due to its durability

and the fact that it is infinitely recyclable .

While the recent release of the Part L consultation suggests any changes expected in the Future Homes Standard will now be pushed further down the line , here at Reynaers we will continue to innovate our aluminium solutions so they are fit for a better future , and already have doors , windows and curtain walling systems

with U-values as low as 0.8 W / m ² K without compromising on aesthetics , functionality and performance . Sustainability remains a key commitment for us .

Achieving the level of thermal efficiency that will be needed to support net zero in the years ahead will remain a challenge for the industry , but it is one we can meet . The driver is to maintain the slimline aesthetics of aluminium

doors and windows while incorporating the thermal breaks needed to increase efficiency . However , with doors and windows already available that meet Passive House levels of thermal efficiency , this is already in reach .

Reynaers ’ sliding door system MasterPatio is a great example of this . It is Cradle to Cradle certified , made with recycled materials and achieves U-values of

0.8 W / m ² K . Having products like this that are market-ready is vital in giving customers confidence that products are built to last and built for the future .

The industry is urged to continue to keep an eye on the future , taking a progressive stance on energy efficiency and developing and testing new solutions to support better natural ventilation and increased thermal efficiency