CLEVELAND – Demand for hard surface flooring products in the United States is forecast to increase 4.6% annually to 9.6 billion square feet in 2013, valued at $12 billion.

According to Hard Surface Flooring, a new study from The Freedonia Group Inc., growth will show renewed strength, mostly due to an expected recovery in the economy and new construction. The study further projects that hard surface flooring, including wood, vinyl, laminate, engineered wood, bamboo and ceramic, will continue to take market share from carpeting.

Laminate flooring is seen to have the greatest growth opportunities, increasing on average 11.3% through 2013, according to the study. However, gains will begin to decelerate relative to the 1998-2008 growth rate as laminate’s market penetration approaches its upper limits. Above average gains also are predicted for wood and engineered wood flooring.

The 262-page report is available for $4,700. For further details, contact Corinne Gangloff at (440) 684-9600 or e-mail [email protected].

U.S. Hard Surface Flooring Demand

(Million square feet)

                2008      2013  % Annual Growth

Vinyl           3,150     3,645   +4.6 

Ceramic Tile    2,130     2,655   +4.5

Wood              900     1,180   +5.6

Laminate          850     1,455  +11.3

Other             630       665   +1.1

Total                             7,660              9,600        +4.6 

Source: The Freedonia Group Inc.