Subcontractors are an often over looked but essential part of the home building industry.\u00a0 Many outside the industry do not understand how large a part subcontractors have in the construction of a home.\u00a0 Home builders and remodelers subcontract a large portion of their construction work out to trade contractors who can more efficiently deliver individual pieces of the construction process.\u00a0 Specialized subcontractors perform much or even all of the actual labor.<\/p>\n
About 71 percent of those employed in the home building industry are subcontractors.\u00a0 Total employment in the home building industry stands at 2.231 million with 647,000 consisting of builders and the remaining 1.584 million subcontractors.<\/p>\n
During the past 40 years, the use of subcontractors significantly accelerated.\u00a0 In 2012, 68 percent of home builders subcontracted 75 percent or more of the construction costs, whereas in 1959 on 31% was subcontracted.\u00a0 A major reason for this trend is due to the increasing complexity, features and amenities supplied with new homes.<\/p>\n
There continues to be a shortage of subcontractors. After the housing bust, many were forced to find other lines of work.\u00a0 Some builders are seeing delays in construction up to 60 days due to the lack of skilled subcontractors.\u00a0 However, home builders are hoping a stronger housing industry outlook will bring workers into the field in 2014.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Subcontractors are an often over looked but essential part of the home building industry.\u00a0 Many outside the industry do not understand how large a part subcontractors have in the construction of a home.\u00a0 Home builders and remodelers subcontract a large … Continue reading