Raw Materials

Crow's Construction Materials Cost Index

January 3, 2012

Crow's Market Recap -- A condensed recap of the market conditions for the major North American softwood lumber and panel products as reported in Crow's Weekly Market Report.

Insulation Association Releases Technical Bulletin

January 3, 2012

PIMA has released a new technical bulletin which outlines best building practices when using polyiso insulation in a continuous insulation system for commercial walls.

Further Developments Regarding Southern Pine Design Values

December 22, 2011

This week, SBCA sent a letter to ALSC requesting they provide a clear appeal procedure in writing by the end of the week, to which SPIB issued a response letter.  In addition, AFP shared with its customers its letter succinctly outlining why ALSC should postpone ruling on SPIB's recommendations.

SP Design Values: SBCA Asks Industry for Help

December 19, 2011

Due to the additional resources used for the unexpected Southern Pine lumber issue, SBCA has started a legal and technical fund to help offset the costs.

SP Design Value Forum Report Released

December 19, 2011

The results of a working session of Southern Pine lumber producers, component manufacturers, builders, lumber dealers and technical experts regarding proposed design values for visually graded Southern Pine lumber are now available in a  report. 

Will China Rescue NA Lumber Production?

December 19, 2011

Volatile markets have become the norm for all type of businesses. For forest products, the result has been an ebb and flow of supply and demand worldwide. Add a giant — China — to the mix, and the results have been extraordinary.

Positive News for Lumber Industry in 2012?

December 19, 2011

After four long years, Widman's Market Barometer foresees some positive news for forest products in the coming year. This includes excerpts from their 2012 Outlook.

Southern Pine 2x4 Has Unusual Premium

December 19, 2011

Southern Pine 2x4 has built and maintained an unusual premium to other SYP products.

Southern Pine Production Gains Highest in US

December 19, 2011

Lumber production in the South gained 9.4% through three quarters, pacing a 5.7% rise across North America.

2012 Building Material Prices to Increase Sharply

December 19, 2011

Residential building material prices show modest decline in November, but pressure is building for a sharp increase in the 2012.