The manufacturing volume of cold-formed steel (CFS) framing materials dipped in the Third Quarter of 2022 compared to Second Quarter 2022 volume levels. The results follow a return to long-term averages in Q2 2022, after a sudden pullback was seen earlier in the year.
According to the latest Quarterly Market Data Report for Q3 2022, also known as the “tonnage report,” released by the Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA), total steel stud volume decreased 4.8% sequentially (vs. Q2 2022). Total stud volume manufactured included decreases of 1.4% for structural steel studs and 8.1% for nonstructural steel studs over their respective Q2 volumes.
“Manufacturing volume of cold-formed steel framing products has been remarkably resilient in an environment where there are significant uncertainties,” said Larry W. Williams, SFIA executive director. “Looking forward, we continue to see consistently strong demand for cold-formed steel in construction across the majority of building types in our primary markets.”
Manufacturers of cold-formed steel framing (CFS) products saw a 4.8% decrease in total tonnage during Q3 2022 versus Q2 2022.
CFS tonnage figures are a leading indicator of non-residential construction demand. The tonnage data and analysis are available for purchase at the SFIA Store.
- Structural products are typically used for load-bearing applications, such as exterior walls, lateral force resisting systems, floors and roofs
- Applications for nonstructural products generally include framing for non-load bearing walls, soffits and backing for architectural finishes
The data in the SFIA Quarterly Market Data Report is collected through an industry-wide survey conducted by the Thompson Research Group (TRG).
The SFIA survey is accompanied by a report containing additional analysis, other pertinent data and the results of surveys of suppliers, manufacturers and contractors providing insights and opinions into factors driving the construction markets and demand for CFS framing products.
Steel Framing Industry Association
The Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) provides its members with exclusive access to complete Quarterly Market Data Reports and cold-formed steel (CFS) framing marketing and market analysis services.
SFIA members have access to the SFIA Forum series, technical design guides, architectural services and CFS certification. Many manufacturer members also qualify to participate in the SFIA Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for CFS Framing.
Additional Resources
- Nonresidential Construction Backlogs Remain Steady, Construction Input Costs Dip
- Steel Prices are Down, Demand is Easing and Supply Is, Well, Improving
- Manufacturing Volume of Cold-Formed Steel Framing Products Up 11.2% in Q2 2022