Building products maker James Hardie Industries has posted an improved net profit of $US68.5 million ($A65.02 million) for the three months to June 30.

The company said an increase in sales volumes and home building in the US and Europe had driven the result.

However, the company said its Australian operations made a lower contribution to earnings.

James Hardie forecasts full year earnings excluding asbestos, ASIC expenses and tax adjustments to be in the range of $US140 million to $US160 million ($A133.21 million - A152.24 million) compared to $140.4 for the year ending March 31.