Retrofit & service work is risingASPE and Plumbing & Mechanical expect a larger share of retrofit and service work versus new construction in 2026, especially healthcare, multifamily rehab and efficiency upgrades.
Data centers and infrastructure leadPHCC's 2026 scan expects modest, uneven growth with strength in data centers and infrastructure programs.
Tariffs and supply volatilityMetals and imported components keep pricing volatile — early bulk purchasing and warehouse staging help protect schedules.
Workforce is the constraintBLS projects plumber, pipefitter and steamfitter employment to grow 7% from 2025 to 2035, about 42,000 openings a year.