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If self-storage were a human being, construction and development would be the heart and lungs. These two components keep the business alive and well, growing and evolving.  But the past few years have been tough for many builders and developers, including those in self-storage. The rising cost of raw materials, combined with the recession and real estate bust, created an abundance of empty residential and commercial space, especially in the United States.

But with an (admittedly dubious) economic recovery underway, many owners and developers are taking the plunge and undergoing some kind of building project in 2011. That means work for the construction suppliers at the core of the industry.

Inside Self-Storage surveyed its database of builders and construction suppliers via e-mail, and asked facility owners and investors to weigh in via a Web poll. Read on to see what they have to say. (All percentages were rounded to nearest percent.)

To explore beyond the slideshow, visit the "Construction" and "Development" topics pages and read the latest articles and news reports. To attend live seminars on the topics of construction, development, finance, and attend the Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Tacoma, Wash., Oct. 4-6, where experts will share their insight on these topics.

Finally, don't forget to get insight and advice from your peers at Self-Storage Talk, the industry's largest online community, where owners, developers, builders and investors daily share their experiences, successes and challenges in the business.