Record rises in structural panel prices are shaking I-joist manufacturers in the US who are struggling with the cost increases, according to industry newsletter Random Lengths.
It said that 80% of I-joist output in the US is from three companies that also produce OSB – Weyerhaeuser, Louisiana Pacific and Boise. While they may be losing on I-joist sales, they are more than making up for it with OSB and plywood profit.
However, I-joist manufacturers that do not have a direct supply of OSB or plywood are not faring so well and some are reportedly looking for alternative web materials.
