A lumber demand snapshot from Maine

WGME 13 in Portland, Maine provided a snapshot of the current lumber and residential construction markets via an interview with Hillside Lumber.

The Westbrook, Maine-based pro dealer and sawmill operator said it is stocking many more boards these days than it has in past, despite lumber costs being up about 300% compared to a year ago. 

Given this past year’s pandemic and political unrest, Maine has become an even more desirable state for escaping urban settings and buying a home. And that’s lead to the home market being white-hot in Pine Tree State.

Hillside Lumber told WGME that it now stocks up to 50% more lumber in stock compared to prior years. While Hillside retains about $1 million in inventory during an average year, it’s been doubled, according to co-owner Michael Knight.

The full report from WGME and Hillside Lumber is available here.