COVENTRY, R.I. - Rhode Island lumber business Coventry Lumber says it is seeing extreme demand for its pressure-treated wood. Demand began rising early April, the same time the pandemic really took hold.

 

Financial Controller for Coventry parent Finetco Sean Finnegan told WPRI News that the company is doing whatever it can to fill the need. He said in late March demand was very low, and the company even pulled back on production.

 

That didn't last long. Finnegan believes the pandemic is responsible for the rapid sales gain, as customers are opting to spend on home improvement projects instead of going on vacation. 

 

Now there's a shortage, and Finnegan said "we can’t get our hands on pressured-treated fast enough."

 

See the full story: https://www.wpri.com/news/call-12-for-action/local-lumber-company-benefits-from-pressure-treated-wood-shortage/

 

Pressure-treated wood is usually southern yellow pine that has been chemically altered for greater longevity and rot-resistance. It's commonly used in decks and fences.