The light gage steel patented proprietary products of Metwood, Inc. are reshaping the residential and commercial building industry. Metwood is driving performance and related light gage steel product needs to new heights. In response, traditional building companies are repositioning, while new companies are arriving in the attempt to aggressively capture their share of the expanding residential and commercial building product markets. Recent reports published by residential and commercial building analysts estimate that the market for light gage steel components will meet or exceed $100 billion in the year 2010.

Trends in the Residential and Commercial Construction Markets

New construction is expected to hit record levels again in 2001. In 2000, the inflation-adjusted value of new construction increased 4% and set an all-time record. The constant dollar value of new construction, in the year 2001, is expected to increase slightly from the 2000 level and set another record. While home building will lag behind non-residential construction, it still accounts for more than 55% of total building construction. The most promising markets are commercial and educational buildings.

Trends Affecting the Use of Steel for Residential & Commercial Construction

Regarding the use of light gage steel in residential and commercial markets, there are numerous and sustainable trends that are having a positive impact on its long-term growth.

Leading the way is the strength, versatility, durability and economic value of steel. For years, steel has been the framing material of choice for builders of skyscrapers and large commercial buildings, as well as interior wall framing for these buildings.

The demand for steel has risen due to tighter building codes. The specification and use of light gage steel trusses and components has seen dramatic growth in the construction market. Ever tightening building fire codes, especially for educational, long-term care and hospital facilities, continue to drive the demand for steel roof structure framing solutions.

Additionally, the momentum for steel is building because of on-going promotional efforts created by trade organizations. Due to their dedication, (American Iron & Steel Institute, North American Steel Framing Alliance, Steel Truss & Component Association, Light Gauge Steel Engineers Association) they have significantly pushed forward the efforts of educating the benefits of light gage steel in building construction.

Metwood is a publicly held company trading on the NASDAQ under OTC- MTWD ticker symbol.