Demand for High Performance Flat Glass Predicted to Rise 8.2 Percent Annually

A recent study by Freedonia analyzing the U.S. advanced flat glass industry forecasts demand for high performance flat glass products in the United States will rise 8.2 percent per year to $9.2 billion by 2017, representing a substantial improvement over the 2007-2012 period.

Security and safety glass products are the largest segment in the flat glass market, accounting for two-thirds of all sales in 2012, and are set to rise 6.5 percent yearly through 2017, according to the study. Freedonia predicts laminated hurricane glass will experience the fastest gains in this segment.

Solar control glass is predicted to post the fastest gains in the industry through 2017, benefiting from increases in new building construction. Sales of low-E glass will see especially strong gains, according to the study, benefiting from the increase in new housing construction and heightened market share driven by increased emphasis on energy efficiency.Smart window glass products are set to make strong gains but will continue to represent a minor share of the total market, according to the study.

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