Trio Forest

+1.480.969.8288

Office hours: 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Will-call hours: 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

LATEST POSTS

What Does the New Administration Mean for the Lumber Market

What Does the New Administration Mean for the Lumber Market

Nov 27, 2024

The lumber market has seen unexpected activity this holiday season, with OSB and 2×6 prices rising due to strong demand, mill closures, and limited supply. Typically a quieter time, this shift highlights the impact of industry dynamics as mills focus on higher-margin products.

Looking ahead, the housing market will play a critical role in shaping lumber prices. Challenges like restrictive zoning, labor shortages, and tariffs remain hurdles for builders. However, post-election optimism is growing, with expectations of regulatory relief and increased homebuilding in 2025. Builder confidence has steadily risen, signaling potential growth for the construction industry.

For those with projects in the pipeline, now is the time to act. Prices may remain steady or increase further, so securing materials early could save both time and money. As we prepare for the coming year, staying informed will be key to navigating these market changes effectively.

read more
It’s a Good Time to Buy Lumber

It’s a Good Time to Buy Lumber

Oct 31, 2024

While stability has returned, factors like recent mill closures and global shifts could still stir up trouble. If you have a project in the pipeline, it’s a good time to secure your lumber packages and stay ahead of any unexpected changes.

Let Trio Forest Products guide you through any lingering uncertainties this Halloween season with confidence and resilience.

Happy Halloween from Trio Forest Products Inc

read more

The Lumber Market Today

ACF Type: wysiwyg

The mills tried hard to spark market movement with closures, but with no result

This month, the market is stubbornly maintaining stability. We wouldn’t quite call it embers to ashes, but there are definitely no fireworks going off.

 

The lumber market in 2024 has shown notable shifts, influenced by a range of factors from supply chain issues to fluctuating demand. Here’s a detailed look at the current state and future projections.

Current Market Trends

Price Trends:

    • As of mid-2024, lumber prices have experienced a significant decline. Prices for framing lumber are down 10.5% year-over-year, with lumber futures dropping by 18.9% compared to the previous year​ (National Association of Home Builders)​. This decrease is largely attributed to weaker demand and improved supply chain conditions.

Supply Chain and Production:

    • Supply chain bottlenecks, which had driven prices to historic highs during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, have begun to ease. However, issues such as labor shortages, transportation availability, and weather events still pose challenges​ (Builders’ General)​.
    • Efforts to negotiate long-term trade deals, increase domestic production, and diversify import sources are ongoing to stabilize the market​ (National Association of Home Builders)​.

Factors Influencing the Market

Demand Dynamics:

    • While demand for lumber in construction and renovation remains strong, it has not reached the unprecedented levels seen in 2021 and 2022. The home improvement sector continues to sustain demand, although at a moderated pace​ (Builders’ General)​​ (Miller Wood Trade Publications)​.

Industry Challenges:

    • The industry faces challenges such as rising costs of labor and fuel, which impact overall profitability. Additionally, regulatory changes, particularly those related to climate policies in the European Union, could significantly affect the U.S. hardwood industry​ (Miller Wood Trade Publications)​.

Market Projections:

    • Forecasts suggest that while prices are unlikely to return to pre-pandemic levels, they are expected to stabilize with modest appreciation. The ongoing construction activities and home improvement projects are key drivers of this steady demand​ (Builders’ General)​​ (Nasdaq)​.

Conclusion and Outlook for 2024

In summary, the lumber market in 2024 is navigating through a period of adjustment and stabilization. Prices have decreased from the highs of the past few years but are expected to remain relatively stable due to sustained demand and easing supply chain issues. Industry stakeholders are working towards increasing domestic production and negotiating better trade terms to ensure a balanced market.

 For more detailed analysis and updates, consider following resources like Builders’ General and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)​ (Builders’ General)​​ (National Association of Home Builders)​.