February 2010--Mid-week framing lumber prices firmed and moved higher amid better weather across the U.S. and acknowledgement of limited supplies at the mill level. Shipments from the dealers' yard picked up particularly in the East and Midwest. Plywood prices gained on continued concerns of availability.
The earthquake in Chile is creating havoc in the finger-jointed pine, solid pine and MDF products. Approximately 40% of the North American supply comes from Chile. The severity and length of this disruption cannot yet be accurately forecasts. What is clear is that supply will be restricted and prices will likely continue to increase for the foreseeable future. We are working to secure alternative sources to help reduce this impact to you, our customer. Please communicate with your salesperson any projects that may involve these products. Some quoting to us has already been shortened to 10 days. We will work hard on both pricing and availability for all of our customers.
CertainTeed roofing products has announced a contractor "No Limit Rewards" program for their shingles. This rebate made directly to you starts at $1.00 per square for Landmark products and goes up to $4.00 per square on Grand Manor, Carriage House and others. There is no maximum, and the program runs through the end of the year. Please ask your salesperson for details.
It does seem that activity is picking up, and there has been good traffic in the Showcase of Homes. I am optimistic this will be a stronger year than the last several, even though many economists seem to be sending some mixed messages. (It does seem like they are never happy.) As Will Rogers said, "An economist's guess is liable to be as good as anybody else's." Please check with your salesperson if there are any new products we can supply that can improve your project and/or help improve your cost to construct.
