The Return of New Construction

Many masons and career building trades professionals have long been asking, "when will new construction return?"

 

While nobody really knows this answer for certain, here are some of the facts I recognize as positive signs of the eventual return of the new construction heyday.

 

One of the richest man in the world, Warren Buffet, has been steadily accumulating America's brickyards, 33+ to date, as well as the American railroad infrastructure.  This knowledgeable and discerning investor would not bet his valuable resources in this sector if he didn't think it would return soon.  The economic pendulum has been swinging back and forth since the beginning of commerce itself.

 

Look for a modest gradual return of new construction in the years to come (more so in remodeling and multifamily units), however not like the robust 1982-2005, the roaring heyday of the longest economic swing in history.

 

This was when America's baby boomers were at the peak of their earning capacity and many building their dream homes.  These people are now looking to downsize as they enter retirement and their children are leaving the nest.  Many are hoping for a resurgence in remodeling as the children of the baby boomers, as well as immigrants are now purchasing from the excess housing glut.

 

Meanwhile, many homebuilders have reluctantly reinvented themselves as "Home Remodelers" and many displaced carpenters have started roofing and remodeling companies.

 

We all know that new construction always seems to be the first sector to be effected by an economic downturn, the negative side of being involved in this "feast or famine" sector of the economy.

 

It is difficult to imagine the new generation of America's workforce picking up the ball and running with it, along with their baggy pants and bicycle mentality, however many people probably felt the same in the late 1960's when America's rebellious youth started to wear their hair long and dressing like clowns.

 

The positive side to this is the up and coming masons will be faced with little competition, for this is a trade that defies conventional wisdom.

 

I, myself, chose this trade as a teenager because I knew it is a service that is always in demand and seldom saturated with competition.

 

Harvey MaCay says there will always be a place at the table for those who are willing to work more diligently, commit more time or accept the chores that few others want.

 

 

 

 

Tim Holmlund

Suggestions?