LEESBURG, VA -- North American shipments of particleboard, MDF and hardboard decline 55 in August 2010 compared to August 2009, according to the Composite Panel Association's most recent Market Barometer.

Overall shipments totaled 427 MMSF (3/4” basis) in August. Year-to-date shipments were still ahead of last year by 4% for composite panel products, the CPA said.

Particleboard shipments were down only 2% to 253 MMSF (3/4” basis) from last month, and down 1% compared to the same month one year ago. MDF shipments were 135 MMSF (3/4” basis), declining 11% from last month and last year. Hardboard fell 5% over last month at 231 MMSF (1/8” basis) and was down 2% compared to August 2009.