Construction Trends Dashboard
Comprehensive analysis of residential construction activity with housing starts, building permits, gap analysis, and seasonal patterns from Federal Reserve Economic Data.
Understanding Construction Data
- •Housing Starts: New residential construction projects that have begun
- •Building Permits: Permits issued for new construction (leading indicator)
- •Pipeline Gap: Difference between permits and starts (future supply)
- •Seasonal Patterns: Construction activity varies by weather and holidays
Market Impact Analysis
- •Supply Pipeline: Permits indicate future housing inventory
- •Economic Activity: Construction affects employment and GDP
- •Material Demand: Activity drives lumber, steel, concrete prices
- •Regional Variations: National trends may mask local conditions
Key Construction Indicators
Pipeline Health Signals
Permit Ratio > 1.1: Strong pipeline, future supply growth
Permit Ratio 0.9-1.1: Balanced construction flow
Permit Ratio < 0.9: Drawing from backlog, potential supply constraints
Seasonal Considerations
Spring Peak: March-May construction ramp-up
Summer High: June-August maximum activity
Winter Low: December-February weather constraints
Data Methodology & Sources
Federal Reserve (FRED)
Official U.S. economic data including Census Bureau construction statistics
Housing Starts (HOUST)
Monthly count of new residential construction projects commenced
Building Permits (PERMIT)
Monthly permits issued for new residential construction