NAHB: OSB Prices Have Increased 500% Since January 2020

While lumber prices have garnered more mainstream attention, OSB prices have continued a meteoric rise, with little relief.

While the declining price of lumber has garnered much attention over recent weeks, prices for another integral wood product—oriented strand board (OSB)—have continued their meteoric climb. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the price of OSB has increased 510% since January 2020, exceeding the peak price increase in lumber by almost 180 percentage points. Additionally, acute shortages have plagued the residential construction industry, particularly in the south. Prices and price fluctuations have varied depending on use and location, according to the NAHB, with increases since the start of 2020 exceeding 650% for some OSB products.