Market Updates

Poplar Tightens, Hard Maple Dominates: The Latest in Hardwood Industry

Stay updated on the domestic kiln-dried hardwood market. Learn about production upgrades, supply challenges, and species trends shaping 2025.


Navigating the Domestic Kiln-Dried Hardwood Market in 2025

The kiln-dried hardwood market is as dynamic as ever, marked by capacity updates, supply shifts, and pricing trends that keep buyers on their toes. Here’s a snapshot of current developments shaping the landscape that our team has been hearing.

Production Investments and Supply Challenges
Sawmills are taking bold steps to increase output. We have heard rumblings of one producer upgrading to a carousel resaw system this coming spring, which will help boost their production by up to 20%. While the upgrade means a few weeks of downtime, creative solutions—like filling their yard with green-on-sticks to maintaining kiln activity—are keeping inventory flowing.

Meanwhile, some mills are struggling with supply chain challenges. Several vendors report tight availability of poplar and hard maple, with green lumber demand outpacing kiln-dried supply. Vendors are also feeling the impact of mechanical setbacks, such as boiler issues during cold spells, and even structural repairs that have delayed kiln production.

Species Spotlights
Poplar demand has flipped dramatically, with vendors fielding multiple inquiries daily despite limited availability. The tight supply has yet to reflect in mid-market pricing, though many expect upward movement soon. Red elm remains a rarity due to Dutch elm disease, but those who can find it appreciate its unique luster, albeit with drying challenges.

Hard maple is dominating production for many mills, though the availability of specific grades and thicknesses is sporadic. Cherry also continues to see moderate interest, with attractive deals on certain loads becoming available.

Market Sentiment
Despite incremental gains in production capacity, the overall sentiment remains cautious. Vendors are adapting to a market still constrained by raw material availability and unpredictable demand patterns. Some mills report steady log supplies thanks to stable forestry management practices, while others face bottlenecks due to external factors like weather or kiln performance.

Looking Ahead
The hardwood industry is no stranger to volatility, and 2025 is no exception. Buyers should stay proactive, maintain strong vendor relationships, and keep an eye on emerging opportunities as market conditions evolve. Those who adapt to supply chain disruptions and seize favorable deals will maintain a competitive edge.

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