(Feb. 3) Pleasanton, Calif.-based Simpson Manufacturing Co., parent company of Simpson Strong-Tie and Simpson Dura-Vent, reported a fourth-quarter loss of $2.8 million, compared with a net income of $1.8 million for the same quarter ended Dec. 31 the prior year. Sales were $132.6 million, down 11.4% from $149.7 million as reported for the fourth quarter of 2008.

For the full year, the company reported net income of $12.2 million, down 77.3% from $53.9 million as reported for 2008. Sales were $585.1 million, down 22.6% from $756.5 million for 2008.

The company said overall sales in Canada and Europe were up for the quarter.