Flat construction spending in 2026 points to uneven commercial roofing demand, with infrastructure and data centers offsetting declines as contractor backlog remains steady.
The industry added 26,000 jobs in March, but diesel topping $5.40 a gallon and rising Treasury yields are raising alarms for contractors heading into the busy season
The industry added 26,000 jobs in March, but diesel topping $5.40 a gallon and rising Treasury yields are raising alarms for contractors heading into the busy season
Associated Builders and Contractors called for repeal of federal PLA mandates and workforce visa reform following President Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address.
The construction industry must add nearly 350,000 workers in 2026 just to keep pace with demand, according to new modeling from Associated Builders and Contractors. Workforce shortages could worsen if spending grows faster than expected.
Construction input prices jumped 0.4% to 0.6% in November, marking the fastest annual increase since January 2023. With aluminum, steel, and energy costs climbing amid tariffs, contractors are raising bids, passing on costs, and planning cautiously—even as some remain optimistic about margins next year.
October’s construction starts posted headline growth, but the gains were concentrated in a small number of megaprojects. Outside of those high-value builds, activity softened, and the industry’s labor picture dimmed further as job openings and hiring indicators pointed to ongoing contraction heading into 2026.