The recent surge in demand for framing lumber gave way to a modestly slower sales pace. Even so, many dry framing prices continued to climb, although in smaller increments. Many producers maintained or extended solid order files, keeping them firmly in command of the market. There were exceptions, with some Southern Pine and green Douglas Fir prices softening and cracks developing in Western S-P-F 2x4 studs. The Random Lengths Framing Lumber Composite Price held at $440.
Week Oct 13 |
Week Oct 6 |
Year Ago 2016 |
|
Random Lengths Framing Lumber Composite Price* | $440 | $440 | $358 |
KD Western S-P-F #2&Btr 2x4 R/L Mill Price | 443 | 436 | 325 |
KD Eastern S-P-F #1&2 2x4 R/L, delivered Great Lakes | 550 | 546 | 415 |
Green Douglas Fir Std&Btr 2x4 R/L (Portland) | 470 | 472 | 332 |
Southern Pine (Westside) #2 2x4 R/L | 427 | 427 | 434 |
KD Coast Hem-Fir #2&Btr 2x4 R/L | 467 | 465 | 330 |
Ponderosa Pine (Inland) #2&Btr 1x12 R/L | 700 | 690 | 665 |
* Weighted average of 15 key items |
Random Lengths Panel Market Report
Structural panel sales slowed as buyers grew more cautious. Demand from the eastern half of the continent kept prices of OSB on a firm to higher track. While activity in the West was quiet, sales to eastern markets were steady. Southern Pine plywood traders grinded out sales amid buyer reluctance to purchase any volume or replenish inventories. Sales overall were steady and prices held. Western Fir plywood sales were steady, but the pace dropped noticeably.
(f.o.b. mill prices) | Week Oct 13 |
Week Oct 6 |
Year Ago 2016 |
Random Lengths Structural Panel Composite Price* | $538 | $536 | $377 |
Southern (west-east) 15/32-inch 3-ply rated sheathing plywood | 507-528 | 507-528 | 365-385 |
Southern (west-east) 15/32-inch 4-ply rated sheathing plywood | 512-530 | 512-530 | 370-400 |
Western 1/2-inch 4-ply rated sheathing plywood | 525 | 525 | 378 |
North Central 7/16-inch Oriented Strand Board | 455 | 452 | 287 |
*Weighted average of 11 key items |