Buyers of framing lumber re-emerged after weeks on the sidelines. Producers of various species seeking trading levels over the past several weeks finally hit values that drew in reluctant customers. Western S-P-F and Southern Pine mills in particular were aggressive in lowering prices to entice sales, which picked up most noticeably on Wednesday. While mill sales volumes increased, many traders remained skeptical that prices had touched a firm bottom, and limited their long-side exposure.
This Week May 19 |
Last Week May 12 |
Year Ago 2016 |
|
Random Lengths Framing Lumber Composite Price* | $409 | $420 | $360 |
KD Western S-P-F #2&Btr 2x4 R/L Mill Price | 380 | 392 | 325 |
KD Eastern S-P-F #1&2 2x4 R/L, delivered Great Lakes | 472 | 477 | 420 |
Green Douglas Fir Std&Btr 2x4 R/L (Portland) | 392 | 395 | 350 |
Southern Pine (Westside) #2 2x4 R/L | 442 | 460 | 415 |
KD Coast Hem-Fir #2&Btr 2x4 R/L | 415 | 425 | 380 |
Ponderosa Pine (Inland) #2&Btr 1x12 R/L | 690 | 685 | 700 |
* Weighted average of 15 key items |
Random Lengths Panel Market Report
Prices of most structural panel items gave way to downward pressure. OSB sales were hit and miss, and prices softened across North America. Producers were most vulnerable to discounts in the South. Southern Pine plywood mills searched for a bottom amid lackluster demand and continued downside price pressure. Buyers perceived additional downside risk and purchased conservatively. After a slow start, western Fir plywood trading picked up Wednesday. Brisk truck and van sales along the West Coast helped mills firm prices.
(f.o.b. mill prices) | This Week May 19 |
Last Week May 12 |
Year Ago 2016 |
Random Lengths Structural Panel Composite Price* | $412 | $419 | $378 |
Southern (west-east) 15/32-inch 3-ply rated sheathing plywood | 360-385 | 370-395 | 367-383 |
Southern (west-east) 15/32-inch 4-ply rated sheathing plywood | 365-390 | 375-400 | 372-387 |
Western 1/2-inch 4-ply rated sheathing plywood | 411 | 418 | 368 |
North Central 7/16-inch Oriented Strand Board | 330 | 333 | 280 |
*Weighted average of 11 key items |