Peabody-based Beacon Roofing Supply Inc. reported $6.2 million net loss for the second quarter ended March 31, a 4.3 percent improvement compared to $6.5 million net loss during the same time last year 2010.

The lower net loss was due to the higher sales and gross margin rate and lower interest expense, partially offset by the impact from higher operating expenses and a lower income tax benefit, according to a statement. Beacon Roofing Supply’s reported a 3.8 percent increase in total sales for its second quarter to $296.3 million from $285.4 million during the same time in 2010.

"Despite an even harsher winter in most of the northern U.S., we managed to beat last year’s results," said Paul Isabella, Beacon Roofing Supply president and CEO. "We feel we are well-positioned to benefit from an expected pick-up in volume and price increases in the second half of our fiscal year, and we remain comfortable with our full year expectations."