Armstrong said it will initiate a 4 to 6 percent price increase in the United States and Canada on select hardwood, commercial sheet vinyl, linoleum and residential sheet and tile; and an 8 percent increase on vinyl composition tile. Both increases are effective with shipments beginning March 15.

“Raw materials, transportation costs and oil and other energy prices are all rising. Chemical prices have rapidly followed the movement of oil prices even though market demand is still generally weak,” said Paul Murfin, Armstrong vp sales.

“Lumber prices also are rising. Significant mill capacity was taken off-line during the recession and the impact on lumber costs in the second half of 2009 has been significant,” he added.