OREANDA-NEWS. U.S. construction remained strong last quarter and appears to be maintaining its momentum as 2015 draws to a close, as noted in a new Fitch Ratings report.

Construction activity remained strong during third-quarter 2015 (3Q'15), advancing 14.3% compared with 3Q'14. Overall, U.S. construction spending increased 10.7% to $888.1 billion during the first 10 months of 2015. Driving the momentum has been solid growth in private construction spending and acceleration in public construction expenditures.

Aggregates producers and cement manufacturers reported solid gains during the quarter, driven by strong pricing and higher shipments. Roofing industry shipments also showed strong growth, although pricing was weaker year-over-year. Industry wallboard and architectural coatings shipments increased slightly during the quarter and pricing for these products was generally stable.