OSB prices in the US have been rising for 18 straight weeks and show no sign of cooling off, according to industry newsletter Random Lengths International.
The 7/16in North Central price has almost doubled during the period and stands at a record US$360, bringing comparisons to the highs reached in 1999.
Demand from retailers and end users has fuelled the prices, while housing starts are 5.5% above last year.
Low OSB inventories at secondary and retail levels have also proved a factor. Poor prices over the past two years have made many buyers keep their stocks thin while mill supplies are plenty.
A decrease in production levels has also helped, with June’s output trailing the same perod last year by 1.7%.
