Market Watch: How Tariffs and Labor Concerns Are (and Aren’t Yet) Impacting Remodeling

As economic headlines highlight proposed tariffs on imported materials and rising concerns about workforce availability, the remodeling industry is watching closely—but not yet feeling the full brunt of these changes. While some home construction and manufacturing sectors are already anticipating the ripple effects, remodeling professionals in the NARI Atlanta community report a mixed and still-developing impact.

Tariff Talk Raises Caution—but Not Immediate Price Hikes

According to a recent article from the Associated Press, new tariffs on imports of steel, aluminum, and other building materials are expected to influence the broader housing and construction markets. However, local remodelers say the effects haven’t fully landed yet.

Builders America shared their recent experience sourcing steel:

“I have not seen any significant increases recently. I purchased some steel recently and when I was getting a quote for that, the supplier warned me that we could be seeing some significant price increases in early April, but nothing had changed yet.”

This cautious optimism reflects what many in the remodeling sector feel—awareness of potential cost hikes but no immediate disruption. Suppliers are beginning to flag possible increases, but actual pricing remains stable primarily for now.

Supply Chain Spotlights: Appliances and Flooring First to Feel It

However, some areas are starting to show strain, especially in product categories that are more dependent on global supply chains.

Stephenson Construction notes:

“We have seen appliances impacted, including some flooring, but so far, it has been slower to reach us in the remodeling industry. Most large materials items are already made here in the U.S.”

The impact of tariffs may be felt more directly on materials that rely heavily on foreign manufacturing. However, many key items used in remodeling projects—such as framing lumber, drywall, and domestic cabinetry—have primarily been sourced within the U.S., helping to buffer some volatility.

Labor: A Quiet Shift Beneath the Surface

While material prices remain mostly steady, concerns about labor availability are beginning to surface. As immigration discussions continue at the national level, portions of the construction workforce are experiencing growing unease.

Again, from Stephenson Construction:

“The Hispanic labor force has definitely been impacted—legitimate documented workers are concerned about the state of things and feel for family and friends in the immigration process.”

Though no large-scale shortages have been reported, contractors are noticing emotional and psychological stress within their workforce, which could influence labor availability and productivity over time. Though not always visible in supply chain data, these workforce dynamics are an important part of the overall market picture.

Canadian Lumber: An Unknown Factor on the Horizon

As trade policy shifts continue, some professionals are also monitoring potential impacts from Canadian lumber imports. While this has not yet affected pricing, it remains a variable to watch in the months ahead.

“Canada lumber (if impacted) is yet to unfold,” Stephenson Construction adds.

The Road Ahead: Prepare, Communicate, and Stay Informed

In a period of economic uncertainty, clear communication with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors becomes even more critical. While most remodelers aren’t yet seeing significant pricing or availability shifts, there are signs that change could come—especially as tariffs roll out and workforce concerns grow.

Now is the time to prepare contingency plans, stay engaged with your supplier networks, and set realistic expectations for potential lead time adjustments or pricing changes with clients.

Stay Connected with NARI Atlanta

At NARI Atlanta, we’ll continue to provide insights from our members and highlight trends as they emerge. Events like NARI Nights offer valuable opportunities to hear firsthand what others in the industry are seeing—and how they’re adapting.

If you’re seeing changes in your own business, whether in pricing, product delays, or workforce challenges—consider sharing your perspective with the NARI community. Together, we can stay ahead of what’s coming and support one another through it.