Europe Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence
The Europe Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market size is estimated at 4.78 billion USD in 2024, and is expected to reach 5.95 billion USD by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.67% during the forecast period (2024-2028).
The European construction industry is experiencing robust growth, driven by significant infrastructure development and renovation initiatives across the region. According to EURO CONSTRUCT reports, the construction sector is projected to grow by 6.1% in Western Europe and 6.4% in Central and Eastern Europe through 2024, indicating strong market fundamentals. This growth is particularly evident in countries like Ireland, Spain, and Slovakia, where construction output is expanding rapidly. The European Commission's commitment to sustainable construction practices has led to the implementation of comprehensive frameworks focused on energy efficiency and digital resource optimization, reshaping industry standards and practices.
Technological advancements in construction adhesives and sealants formulations are revolutionizing construction methodologies across Europe. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing environmentally benign products that align with the EU's stringent regulatory requirements while maintaining high-performance standards. These innovations include new formulations that offer improved bonding strength, faster curing times, and enhanced durability for various construction applications such as carpet layering, flooring, timber joining, and weather sealing. The industry is witnessing a significant shift towards sustainable solutions that minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.
The European Union's ambitious Energy Efficiency Directive and Energy Performance of Buildings framework are driving substantial changes in construction practices. These initiatives are catalyzing the renovation of existing buildings to meet higher energy efficiency standards, creating new opportunities for advanced construction sealants applications. The focus on energy-efficient construction has led to increased demand for specialized bonding solutions that can effectively support thermal insulation systems, air-tight building envelopes, and modern facade installations. This regulatory push is transforming traditional construction methods and accelerating the adoption of innovative building materials and techniques.
Market dynamics are being shaped by the increasing preference for prefabricated construction elements and modular building systems. This trend is driving demand for high-performance construction sealants that can ensure structural integrity while facilitating faster assembly times. The industry is responding with specialized solutions for panel joining, weather sealing, and structural bonding that meet the specific requirements of modern construction methods. Additionally, the growing emphasis on resource efficiency in construction planning has highlighted the advantages of adhesive-based joining methods over traditional mechanical fasteners, particularly in applications where failure prevention and long-term durability are crucial.
Europe Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market Trends and Insights
Rapid growth of new construction along with rising need for renovation activities will drive the industry
- The overall revenue of construction showed a steep decrement in 2020 because of the impact of the pandemic situation due to COVID-19, which led to an overall recovery slowdown and social distancing measures on work sites.
- The overall revenue of the construction sector in Europe grew tremendously, with the highest year-on-year growth in 2021 compared to that of 2020 because of the initiatives and measures taken by the EU Commission, such as the infusion of EUR 750 billion for all sectors under the COVID recovery plan named Next Generation EU. Under the Next Generation EU plan, the construction sector received the maximum investment because of the European objective of green and digital transition in buildings which led to growth in the annual renovation rate of existing buildings and structures.
- As per the EUROCONSTRUCT report, among the segments of the European Union based on political geography, Central and Eastern Europe are expected to register a CAGR of 6.4%, followed by Western Europe at a CAGR of 6.1% in 2022-2024.
- The policymakers at European Union and national level are prioritizing the construction of new buildings and conversion of existing buildings to be energy efficient through various policies including Energy Performance of Buildings Directive and others. These policies will lead to an increase in overall revenue for construction in the forecast period.
Segment Analysis: Resin
Acrylic Segment in Europe Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market
The acrylic segment dominates the European construction adhesives & sealants market, holding approximately 27% market share in 2024. This significant market position is attributed to acrylic's versatile adhesion compatibility with various substrates, including metal, concrete, and ceramics, making it highly suitable for construction applications. The segment's growth is driven by increasing demand in window sealing, door panel fixing, and other construction applications where acrylic's resistance to extreme environmental conditions proves invaluable. The European construction industry's steady growth trajectory and increasing focus on energy-efficient building solutions have further strengthened acrylic's market position.
Silicone Segment in Europe Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market
The silicone segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the European construction adhesives & sealants market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 6% during 2024-2029. This robust growth is primarily driven by silicone's exceptional thermal resistance and strong adhesion properties, making it ideal for roofing and kitchen panel adhesion applications. The segment's expansion is further supported by increasing demand for weather-resistant and durable construction sealants in construction projects. The growing trend toward sustainable and energy-efficient buildings across Europe has also contributed to the increased adoption of silicone-based products, as they offer superior performance in terms of durability and weather resistance.
Remaining Segments in Resin
The other significant segments in the market include polyurethane, which is valued for its strong bonding capabilities and flexibility in construction applications, and construction epoxy, known for its high strength and chemical resistance properties. The VAE/EVA segment serves specific applications in wood bonding and surface treatments, while cyanoacrylate offers rapid curing solutions for quick fixes in construction. The market also includes various other resin types that cater to specialized construction needs. Each of these segments contributes uniquely to the market, offering specific advantages for different construction applications, from structural bonding to decorative finishing.
Segment Analysis: Technology
Sealants Segment in European Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market
The sealants segment dominates the European construction adhesives & sealants market, commanding approximately 43% of the total market value in 2024. This significant market share is attributed to the segment's wide-ranging applications in the construction industry, including weather sealing, wall sealing, flooring, roofing, tile sealing, and swimming pool floor sealing. The segment's dominance is particularly driven by silicone and polyurethane-based construction sealants, which are preferred for their flexible sealing and strong adhesion characteristics across various construction applications. The growth in construction output, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe at 6.4% and Western Europe at 6.1%, continues to fuel the demand for construction sealants, making it the most substantial segment in the market.
Water-borne Segment in European Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market
The water-borne segment represents a significant portion of the market and is experiencing robust growth due to increasing environmental regulations and safety concerns. This segment's growth is primarily driven by stringent European regulations against solvent-borne alternatives, as water-borne adhesives offer lower volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and are considered safer for human health. The segment is particularly strong in wallpaper adhesives applications due to its excellent adhesion characteristics to porous surfaces such as concrete, paper, and pulp. The European Union's continued focus on environmentally friendly construction materials and sustainable building practices further supports the expansion of water-borne adhesives in the construction sector.
Remaining Segments in Technology
The market's remaining segments include reactive adhesives, hot melt adhesives, and solvent-borne adhesives, each serving specific construction applications. Reactive adhesives are particularly valued for their high bonding strength and adhesion durability with substrates like steel, non-ferrous metals, ceramics, concrete, and glass. Hot melt adhesives are preferred for applications such as profile wrapping, lamination, and wood joinery due to their high thermal resistance properties. Solvent-borne adhesives, while offering quick curing times and good adhesion with dissimilar surfaces, maintain a smaller market share due to environmental regulations limiting their use. These segments collectively complement the market by providing specialized solutions for specific construction requirements, including structural adhesives and construction mastic applications.
Europe Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market Geography Segment Analysis
Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market in Germany
Germany dominates the European construction adhesives and sealants landscape, commanding approximately 15% of the regional market value in 2024. The country's construction adhesives and sealants sector benefits from its robust housing infrastructure initiatives, supported by government assistance programs like KfW loans and subsidies. The market is particularly driven by silicone resin-based construction sealants, which have gained significant traction due to their superior adhesion properties with porous surfaces like concrete, ceramics, and polymer-based foams. Despite regional economic challenges, the German construction sector has maintained its momentum, with a strong focus on sustainable building practices and energy-efficient construction methods. The market is further strengthened by stringent quality standards and regulations, particularly regarding environmental compliance and product safety. German manufacturers have responded by developing innovative, eco-friendly adhesive solutions that meet these rigorous requirements while maintaining high performance standards.
Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market in Italy
Italy represents one of the most dynamic markets in the European construction adhesives and sealants sector, with a projected growth rate of approximately 6% from 2024 to 2029. The Italian market is experiencing a significant transformation driven by the increasing adoption of advanced construction technologies and sustainable building practices. The country's construction sector is particularly focused on renovation and modernization projects, creating substantial demand for specialized building adhesives. Italian contractors and builders are increasingly recognizing the value of high-performance adhesive solutions in improving building durability and energy efficiency. The market is also benefiting from the growing trend toward prefabricated construction elements, which require specialized adhesive solutions for assembly and installation. Local manufacturers are responding to this demand by developing innovative products that combine superior performance with environmental sustainability.
Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market in Russia
Russia's construction adhesives and sealants market demonstrates remarkable resilience and potential, supported by the country's extensive construction sector that employs millions of workers across numerous companies. The market is characterized by a strong preference for water-borne construction sealants, reflecting the industry's shift toward more environmentally conscious solutions. Russian construction companies are increasingly adopting modern building techniques that require specialized adhesive solutions, particularly in residential construction projects. The market benefits from ongoing urbanization trends and the government's commitment to expanding residential infrastructure. Local manufacturers are focusing on developing products adapted to Russia's diverse climate conditions, ensuring optimal performance in both extreme cold and warm weather conditions. The sector also sees growing demand for innovative solutions in industrial and commercial construction projects.
Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market in France
France maintains a significant position in the European construction adhesives and sealants market, driven by its sophisticated construction industry and strong focus on sustainable building practices. The French market is characterized by high adoption rates of innovative adhesive technologies, particularly in residential and commercial construction projects. The country's emphasis on energy-efficient building solutions has created substantial demand for advanced sealants that enhance building insulation and environmental performance. French construction companies are increasingly integrating modern adhesive solutions into their building processes, particularly in renovation and restoration projects. The market also benefits from strong research and development activities, with French manufacturers continuously introducing new products that meet evolving construction requirements and environmental standards. The sector's growth is further supported by stringent building codes that emphasize the use of high-quality construction materials.
Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market in Other Countries
The construction adhesives and sealants market across other European countries, including Spain, the United Kingdom, and various Eastern European nations, exhibits diverse growth patterns and market characteristics. These markets are influenced by their respective construction sectors' development stages and regulatory environments. Spain shows particular strength in residential construction applications, while the UK market emphasizes commercial and infrastructure projects. Eastern European countries are experiencing growing demand driven by increasing construction activities and modernization efforts. These markets share common trends toward sustainable construction practices and energy-efficient building solutions, though adoption rates vary by region. The development of these markets is supported by both local manufacturing capabilities and international trade relationships, creating a dynamic competitive landscape. Each country maintains its unique market characteristics while contributing to the overall European construction adhesives and sealants sector's growth and innovation.
Competitive Landscape
Top Companies in Europe Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market
Leading companies in the market are focusing heavily on sustainable product development and eco-friendly solutions to align with European environmental regulations. There is a strong emphasis on developing products with reduced volatile organic compounds and improved energy efficiency properties. Companies are actively pursuing strategic acquisitions and partnerships to strengthen their regional presence and expand their product portfolios. Operational efficiency is being enhanced through investments in technology centers and manufacturing facilities across Europe. Market leaders are also prioritizing research and development to create innovative construction adhesives and sealants solutions for specific construction applications. The industry is witnessing increased collaboration between companies to develop advanced adhesive technologies and improve distribution networks.
Consolidated Market Led By Global Players
The European construction adhesives and sealants market exhibits a high level of consolidation, with the top five companies commanding a significant market share. These major players are predominantly global chemical conglomerates with diverse product portfolios and strong manufacturing capabilities across Europe. The market structure favors established players due to their extensive distribution networks, technical expertise, and ability to meet stringent European quality standards. Local players maintain their presence through specialized product offerings and strong regional relationships, though their market share remains limited compared to multinational corporations.
The market is characterized by regular merger and acquisition activities as larger companies seek to strengthen their market position and expand their technological capabilities. Companies are particularly interested in acquiring businesses that bring complementary technologies or a strong regional presence. The trend of consolidation is expected to continue as companies aim to achieve economies of scale and expand their geographical footprint. Smaller specialized players are increasingly becoming attractive acquisition targets for larger corporations looking to enhance their product offerings and technical expertise.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
For incumbent companies to maintain and increase their market share, focusing on sustainable product development and compliance with evolving environmental regulations is crucial. Market leaders need to continue investing in research and development to create innovative solutions that address specific construction industry challenges. Building strong relationships with key construction companies and maintaining extensive distribution networks are essential for market dominance. Companies must also focus on operational efficiency and digital transformation to maintain competitive pricing while ensuring product quality.
New entrants and smaller players can gain ground by focusing on niche market segments and developing specialized solutions for specific applications. Success in the market increasingly depends on the ability to offer environmentally friendly products that meet stringent European regulations. Companies need to establish strong technical support services and maintain close relationships with end-users to understand evolving requirements. The development of innovative application technologies and a focus on customer service can help smaller players compete effectively. Additionally, forming strategic partnerships with established distribution networks can help in expanding market reach. The integration of construction chemicals and construction sealants into product lines can further enhance market competitiveness.
Europe Construction Adhesives & Sealants Industry Leaders
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Arkema Group
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Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
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MAPEI S.p.A.
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Sika AG
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Soudal Holding N.V.
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Recent Industry Developments
- April 2022: ITW Performance Polymers launched Plexus MA8105 as its newest adhesive with fast room-temperature curing, excellent mechanical properties, and a broad range of adhesion.
- February 2022: H.B. Fuller announced the acquisition of Fourny NV to strengthen its Construction Adhesives business in Europe.
- January 2022: H.B. Fuller announced the acquisition of UK-based Apollo Chemicals to expand its foothold in the European market.
Europe Construction Adhesives & Sealants Market Report Scope
Acrylic, Cyanoacrylate, Epoxy, Polyurethane, Silicone, VAE/EVA are covered as segments by Resin. Hot Melt, Reactive, Sealants, Solvent-borne, Water-borne are covered as segments by Technology. France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Spain, United Kingdom are covered as segments by Country.| Acrylic |
| Cyanoacrylate |
| Epoxy |
| Polyurethane |
| Silicone |
| VAE/EVA |
| Other Resins |
| Hot Melt |
| Reactive |
| Sealants |
| Solvent-borne |
| Water-borne |
| France |
| Germany |
| Italy |
| Russia |
| Spain |
| United Kingdom |
| Rest of Europe |
| Resin | Acrylic |
| Cyanoacrylate | |
| Epoxy | |
| Polyurethane | |
| Silicone | |
| VAE/EVA | |
| Other Resins | |
| Technology | Hot Melt |
| Reactive | |
| Sealants | |
| Solvent-borne | |
| Water-borne | |
| Country | France |
| Germany | |
| Italy | |
| Russia | |
| Spain | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Rest of Europe |
Market Definition
- End-user Industry - Residential construction, commercial construction, public buildings, industrial buildings and infrastructure projects are considered under the construction industry.
- Product - All adhesive and sealant products used in construction industry are considered in the market studied
- Resin - Under the scope of the study, resins like Polyurethane, Epoxy, Acrylic, Cyanoacrylate, VAE/EVA, and Silicone are considered
- Technology - For the purpose of this study, Water-borne, Solvent-borne, Reactive, Hot Melt, and Sealants technologies are taken into consideration.
| Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|
| Hot-melt Adhesive | Hot melt adhesives are generally 100% solid formulations, based on thermoplastic polymers. They are solid at room temperature and are activated upon heating above their softening point, at which stage they are liquid, and hence, can be processed. |
| Reactive Adhesive | A reactive adhesive is made up of monomers that react in the adhesive curing process and do not evaporate from the film during use. Instead, these volatile components become chemically incorporated into the adhesive. |
| Solvent-borne Adhesive | Solvent-borne adhesives are mixtures of solvents and thermoplastic, or slightly cross-linked polymers, such as polychloroprene, polyurethane, acrylic, silicone, and natural and synthetic rubbers (elastomers). |
| Water-borne Adhesive | Water-borne adhesives use water as a carrier or diluting medium to disperse a resin. They are set by allowing the water to evaporate or be absorbed by the substrate. These adhesives are compounded with water as a diluent, rather than a volatile organic solvent. |
| UV Cured Adhesive | UV curing adhesives induce curing and create a permanent bond without heating by using ultraviolet (UV) light or other radiation sources. An aggregation of monomers and oligomers is cured or polymerized by ultraviolet (UV) or visible light in a UV adhesive. Because UV is a radiating energy source, UV adhesives are often referred to as radiation curing or rad-cure adhesives. |
| Heat-resistant Adhesive | Heat-resistant Adhesives refer to those that do not break down under high temperatures. One aspect of a complicated system of circumstances is the adhesive's capacity to withstand disintegration brought on by high temperatures. As the temperature rises, adhesives may liquefy. They can withstand stresses resulting from differing coefficients of expansion and contraction, which might be an additional advantage. |
| Reshoring | Reshoring is the practice of moving commodity production and manufacturing back to the nation where the business was founded. Onshoring, inshoring, and back shoring are further terms used. Offshoring, the practice of producing items abroad to lower labor and manufacturing costs, is the opposite of this. |
| Oleochemicals | Oleochemicals are compounds produced from biological oils or fats. They resemble petrochemicals, which are substances made from petroleum. The oleochemical business is built on the hydrolysis of oils or fats. |
| Nonporous Materials | Nonporous materials are substances that do not permit the passage of liquid or air. Nonporous materials are those that are not porous, such as glass, plastic, metal, and varnished wood. Since no air can get through, less airflow is required to raise these materials, negating the requirement for high airflow. |
| EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement | A trade agreement and an investment protection agreement were concluded between the European Union and Vietnam on June 30, 2019. |
| VOC content | Compounds with limited solubility in water and high vapor pressure are known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Many VOCs are human-made chemicals that are used and produced in the manufacture of paints, pharmaceuticals, and refrigerants. |
| Emulsion Polymerization | Emulsion polymerization is a method of producing polymers or connected groups of smaller chemical chains known as monomers, in a water solution. The method is often used to make water-based paints, adhesives, and varnishes, in which the water stays with the polymer and is marketed as a liquid product. |
| 2025 National Packaging Targets | In 2018, the Australian Environment Ministry set the following 2025 National Packaging Targets: 100% of the packaging must be reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025, 70% of plastic packaging must be recycled or composted by 2025, 50% of average recycled content must be included in packaging by 2025, and problematic and unnecessary single-use plastic packaging must be phased out by 2025. |
| Russian Government’s Import Substitution Policy | The Western sanctions suspended the distribution of several high-tech items to Russia, including those required by the raw material export sectors and the military-industrial complex. In response, the government launched an "import substitution" scheme, appointing a special commission to oversee its implementation in early 2015. |
| Paper Substrate | Paper substrates are paper sheets, reels, or boards with a base weight of up to 400 g/m2 that has not been converted, printed or otherwise altered. |
| Insulation Material | A material that inhibits or blocks heat, sound, or electrical transmission is known as Insulation Material. The variety of insulation materials includes thick fibers like fiberglass, rock and slag wool, cellulose, and natural fibers as well as stiff foam boards and sleek foils. |
| Thermal Shock | A temperature change known as thermal shock generates stress in a material. It commonly results in material breakdown and is especially prevalent in brittle materials like ceramics. When there is a quick temperature change, either from hot to cold or vice versa, this process occurs abruptly. It occurs more frequently in materials with poor heat conductivity and insufficient structural integrity. |
Research Methodology
Mordor Intelligence follows a four-step methodology in all our reports.
- Step-1: Identify Key Variables: The quantifiable key variables (industry and extraneous) pertaining to the specific product segment and country are selected from a group of relevant variables & factors based on desk research & literature review; along with primary expert inputs. These variables are further confirmed through regression modeling (wherever required).
- Step-2: Build a Market Model: In order to build a robust forecasting methodology, the variables and factors identified in Step-1 are tested against available historical market numbers. Through an iterative process, the variables required for market forecast are set and the model is built on the basis of these variables.
- Step-3: Validate and Finalize: In this important step, all market numbers, variables and analyst calls are validated through an extensive network of primary research experts from the market studied. The respondents are selected across levels and functions to generate a holistic picture of the market studied.
- Step-4: Research Outputs: Syndicated Reports, Custom Consulting Assignments, Databases & Subscription Platforms