The remodeling sector continues to outperform other areas of residential construction, according to the latest spending data. In May, private residential construction spending recorded its third straight monthly increase, with remodeling leading the way.
Improvement spending climbed 0.9% from April and was 8.1% higher than the same time last year, making remodeling the only residential construction category to post monthly growth. The continued momentum reflects strong homeowner investment despite broader market challenges.
This steady growth aligns with forecasts shared earlier this year by industry experts, including Eric Lynch, economist at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Lynch discussed the market outlook during the 2026 International Builders' Show in Orlando and will return alongside other housing experts for a mid-year remodeling forecast webinar on Tuesday, July 28.
Experts to Share Mid-Year Remodeling Forecast
The webinar will feature a panel of leading industry economists and researchers, including:
- Rachel Bogardus Drew, Director of the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) of Harvard University
- Eric Lynch, Economist, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
- Danushka Nanayakkara-Skillington, NAHB Assistant Vice President of Forecasting and Analysis
The discussion will be moderated by Vince Butler, President of Butler Brothers Corporation.
During the hour-long session, the panel will explore several topics influencing today's remodeling market, including:
- Current macroeconomic conditions
- Remodeling demand and homeowner spending trends
- Updates on NAHB's Remodeling Market Index (RMI)
- State Projections of Remodeling (SPR)
- Factors expected to influence the industry through the remainder of 2026
Why the Long-Term Outlook Remains Positive
Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, experts remain optimistic about the future of the remodeling industry.
Rachel Bogardus Drew points to two long-term drivers that are expected to sustain remodeling activity. First, the nation's aging housing stock will continue to require maintenance, repairs, and modernization. Second, the growing population of older homeowners is expected to increase demand for accessibility upgrades that allow people to remain in their homes safely and comfortably as they age.
These structural trends suggest that remodeling will continue to play a vital role in the residential construction market for years to come.
Contractors and remodeling professionals who stay informed about emerging market trends and evolving homeowner needs will be better positioned to meet future demand.
A Valuable Opportunity for Industry Professionals
The upcoming webinar offers builders, remodelers, contractors, and other housing professionals an opportunity to gain practical insights into current market conditions and future expectations. Attendees can also learn how to make better use of available remodeling resources and better understand the research that helps shape industry forecasts.
As homeowner investment in renovations continues to rise, staying informed about market trends can help professionals make smarter business decisions and prepare for the opportunities ahead.
