Nothing in the history of the construction industry has affected builders as much as the ongoing pandemic. There is no doubt about it that disruptions in supply chains and rapid price increases in materials have unsettled the world of siding as we once knew it.
However, not all of these unexpected circumstances arrive with negative consequences. Really, substantial change heralds a new age of advantageous improvements like no other.
Mark LaBonte established Phoenix Siding in 1990. In partnership with his father, son Blake LaBonte has been with Phoenix Siding for the past 15 years. Happy to answer any questions and concerns prospective clients may have, Blake has a few things to say about how well the industry is doing and recent trends observed with his company and the market.
To begin with, the team of professional siders at Phoenix has been super busy with new construction. However, they’ve also been active assisting homeowners with nowhere to travel play catch up on siding renovations.
In addition, Blake notes that both retirees looking to settle on the island from the mainland and individuals now working at home due to the pandemic are relocating to Vancouver Island for the milder climate and outdoor lifestyle.
Next, he’s noticing new trends in construction as cities on the island are looking to densify neighbourhoods to handle the influx of newcomers. Prices are skyrocketing. New builds are coming in the form of more affordable homes with rental suites and multi-family dwellings, such as duplexes and attached townhomes. Blake mentions a 24-unit build that the company recently completed work on that is all rentals.
He also notices more families living together longer. People are building carriage houses on properties beside the main house for aging parents and college students to live in.
Lastly, a few siding trends are evident. Typically, Blake is seeing more vinyl siding as the material of choice on new builds and renovations due to the low maintenance. Undoubtedly, many homeowners appreciate the easy-to-maintain merits of vinyl. Blake also notes that many homeowners are choosing Hardie Plank for custom builds for the same reasons.
With over three decades of construction experience, both Mark and Blake oversee the continued success of this Vancouver Island siding company. The office is located at 2730 Fairbanks Street in beautiful Nanaimo, BC. Visitors can check out the ‘Projects’ page for several stunning photos of siding handiworks. For further information, get in touch with the siding company today by email at blake@phoenixsiding.ca or by phone at 250-758-3818.
