PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803201
PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803201
The U.S. structural metal market is on a robust growth trajectory, valued at USD 92.5 billion in 2024 and projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.1%, reaching USD 146.9 billion by 2032. This impressive expansion is being fueled by the surging construction industry, driven by rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and strong government support for infrastructure renewal and affordable housing.
With structural metals playing a critical role in foundational, load-bearing, and architectural components of buildings, demand is surging for beams, trusses, columns, and prefabricated units. The adoption of prefabricated construction is transforming project timelines and cost efficiencies. Simultaneously, technologies such as 3D printing and CNC machining are revolutionizing the production of complex and customized metal components.
U.S. initiatives, including the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), are injecting billions into public infrastructure, significantly amplifying the need for durable and adaptable structural metal solutions. These shifts, coupled with rising environmental consciousness and advancements in recyclable metals, are positioning the industry for sustained growth.
Key Insights
The support & structure segment led the product category with a 50% market share in 2024, owing to its fundamental role across all types of construction, including commercial buildings, bridges, and industrial plants.
The prefabricated buildings category is forecasted to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.5% during 2025-2032. This rise is attributed to the growing preference for rapid, economical, and modular construction approaches, especially in warehouses, data centers, and residential housing.
Steel remained the dominant material type in 2024, capturing 50% of the market due to its cost-effectiveness and strength. It is integral to projects requiring high load-bearing capacity and resistance to environmental stress.
Aluminum is anticipated to be the fastest-growing material segment, expanding at a CAGR of 6.4%. Its lightweight, corrosion resistance, and environmental benefits make it ideal for green buildings and LEED-certified projects.
Commercial construction accounted for the highest end-use share, at 55%, in 2024. Urban expansion, corporate infrastructure, and demand for energy-efficient structures are key factors bolstering this segment.
The residential sector is set to grow at a CAGR of 6.3%, driven by a housing shortage and the shift toward sustainable and disaster-resistant building technologies, particularly light-gauge steel framing.
Regionally, the South held the largest share at 40% in 2024 and is also expected to grow the fastest at 6.5%. States like Texas, Florida, and Georgia are seeing rising construction activity, fueled by population growth, industrial migration, and favorable business climates.
The U.S. structural metal market is fragmented, with a large number of regional players. Minimal product differentiation and low entry barriers have created a competitive landscape where firms prioritize cost efficiency and service optimization.
Leading market players include Commercial Metals Company, Nucor Corporation, Steel Dynamics, Valmont Industries, and Zekelman Industries. Notably, Nucor Corporation announced a USD 200 million investment in a new utility structure plant in Utah in January 2025.
Industry consolidation continues, as evidenced by Zekelman Industries' acquisition of EXLTUBE's assets in 2022, boosting its manufacturing and warehousing capabilities in Kansas City.