The HPSI decreased 1.1 points in July to a reading of 71.5, as an overall lack of affordability continues to hamstring consumer sentiment toward the housing market.
Wood Markets News
Mortgage Applications Increase in the Week Ending August 2nd
Mortgage loan application volume increased 6.9% on a seasonally adjusted basis from one week earlier, MBA reported.
US Forest Service Announces $25 Million Funding Opportunity to Help Reduce Wildfire Risk
The Forest Service announced a funding opportunity through the hazardous fuels transportation assistance program to reduce wildfire risk, expand and create market opportunities, and support local jobs.
A Look at Vancouver’s “The Hive,” the World’s Most Advanced Seismic Timber Building
The world’s most advanced earthquake-resistant timber building is weeks from topping out in downtown Vancouver, according to a feature by Wood Central.
Martco Plant in Corrigan, TX, Produces First Board on Its New Multi-Opening OSB Line
Martco LLC has produced the first board on its new multi-opening OSB line from DIEFFENBACHER in Corrigan, Texas.
Canadian Lumber Production Declines 1.8% in May
Lumber production decreased 1.8% month-over-month to 4,475.1 thousand cubic meters in May.
Canadian Shippers and Producers Face Potential Railroad Strike Again
Canadian shippers and producers are once again holding their breath ahead of a possible strike by thousands of rail workers this month, The Canadian Press reported.
Nonresidential Construction Employment Increases in July
The construction industry added 25,000 jobs on net in July, the Census Bureau and ABC reported. Year-over-year, industry employment has expanded by 239,000.
Bark Beetle Infestation Found in UK Sitka Spruce for First Time; Scotland Stepping Up Defenses
An invasive beetle wreaking havoc on conifer plantations across Europe has been found for the first time on Sitka spruce in the UK, Wood Central reported.
Goodman Veneer and Lumber Operation in Goodman, WI, Abruptly Closes
Employees at the Goodman Veneer and Lumber operation in Goodman, Wisconsin, have received notice of the mill’s closure, The Daily News reported.