Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
New tariffs on lumber and timber have been announced in a recent proclamation from President Donald Trump.
A 10% tariff on foreign softwood lumber and timber and a 25% tariff on kitchen cabinets, vanities and upholstered wooden furniture will be imposed, set to take effect on Oct. 14. On Jan. 1, 2026, the tariff on cabinets is expected to increase to 50% and the tariff on upholstered furniture is expected to jump to 30%.
According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), out of the estimated $204 billion worth of goods used in the construction of multifamily and single-family housing in 2024, $14 billion of those were imported from outside the U.S. The NAHB also reports since December 2020, the cost of building materials has risen by 34%. Builders estimate a typical cost effect from recent tariffs is $10,900 per home.
Increased tariffs on building materials has and will continue to raise the cost of housing, burdening homebuilders and home buyers alike.
