Every industry witnesses trends that come and go throughout the years, and even decades. The building enclosure industry is no different. “Preferences change over the years in the types of metals used, the looks of facades, and even where products are sourced from.” Historically, a driving factor in sourcing products and systems has been price, but that is starting to change. There’s been a shift away from this type of thinking and more consideration is being given to where products are sourced and the quality of those products.
Among those current trends is a focus on American-made products since the start of COVID-19. To avoid delays and improve lead times, products produced domestically have less of a risk compared to products imported from around the World. “This includes all facets of the building enclosure industry, including glass, metal, aluminum, even down to bolts and hardware for accessories and components.” Another trend is the use of natural metals such as aluminum, copper, steel and zinc. “While metals have been used in architectural projects for decades, architects, contractors, and designers are continuing to choose these metals for commercial, and even residential projects.”
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