What Does the New Aluminum Tariff Mean for Roofing?
The Biden administration’s 2024 aluminum tariff has sent ripples through the roofing and construction industry, leaving many homeowners and contractors wondering: How will this impact roofing costs, material availability, and project timelines?
With a 25% tariff on imported aluminum, roofing materials like metal panels, flashing, and structural aluminum will see price increases and potential supply chain disruptions. In this guide, we break down what the new aluminum tariff means for the roofing industry, how it affects pricing, and what homeowners and contractors can do to stay ahead of these changes.
What Is the 2024 U.S. Aluminum Tariff?
The U.S. government has implemented a 25% tariff on aluminum imports, specifically targeting Chinese aluminum products, including:
Raw aluminum used in construction.
Aluminum sheets and coils used in roofing materials.
Aluminum extrusions for structural components.
This is part of a larger effort to protect U.S. aluminum manufacturers from artificially low-priced imports, particularly from China, which has been accused of overproducing cheap aluminum and flooding global markets.
How the Aluminum Tariff Affects Roofing Costs
1. Higher Prices for Metal Roofing & Flashing
Aluminum is a key component in metal roofing systems, flashing, and structural supports. With import costs rising, we can expect to see price increases in:
Standing seam metal roofing (which commonly uses aluminum panels).
Aluminum flashing & drip edges (essential for waterproofing).
Aluminum-based structural materials used in large roofing projects.
Higher tariffs mean contractors will pay more for materials, and those costs will trickle down to homeowners.
2. Potential Delays Due to Supply Chain Disruptions
Many U.S. contractors source aluminum internationally because of its affordability and availability. With a higher cost of imports, some suppliers may experience delays in material shipments, leading to:
Longer wait times for metal roofing installations.
Project rescheduling due to material shortages.
Increased demand for alternative materials, causing backorders.
Even though the U.S. has aluminum manufacturers, domestic production is not currently high enough to meet demand, which means roofing companies will have to adjust their ordering strategies to avoid supply gaps.
3. Alternative Roofing Materials Will See Higher Demand
As aluminum roofing becomes more expensive, many contractors and homeowners will shift to alternative materials, such as:
Steel roofing – A strong alternative, though it’s also subject to fluctuating tariffs.
Asphalt shingles – May see increased demand, affecting their pricing as well.
Composite roofing – Some manufacturers may create hybrid options to reduce aluminum content.
However, even steel is facing tariffs, which means price volatility will affect multiple roofing materials across the board.
Can U.S. Aluminum Producers Meet Demand?
The goal of the tariff is to boost domestic aluminum production, but the reality is that U.S. aluminum mills are already operating at capacity. This means:
Production increases will take time, leading to short-term supply shortages.
Contractors will need to plan ahead to secure materials before price jumps.
Prices may rise beyond just the tariff percentage due to supply-and-demand pressures.
For homeowners and roofing companies, this means the sooner you lock in your materials, the better.
What Can Homeowners & Roofing Companies Do?
For Roofing Companies:
Plan for higher aluminum costs in roofing estimates and bids.
Source alternative materials where possible to avoid supply chain delays.
Work with suppliers early to secure aluminum-based materials before price hikes.
Communicate with homeowners about why costs may be rising and how to prepare.
For Homeowners:
Lock in roofing contracts now before prices increase further.
Consider alternative roofing materials if aluminum-based options become too costly.
Check with your insurance provider to ensure coverage accounts for rising material costs.
Get multiple quotes to compare pricing, but expect industry-wide adjustments.
Final Thoughts: How the Aluminum Tariff Will Reshape Roofing in 2024
The 2024 U.S. aluminum tariff is driving up costs for metal roofing, flashing, and aluminum-based construction materials. With higher prices, supply chain challenges, and increased demand for alternative roofing materials, now is the time for homeowners and contractors to plan ahead.
If you’re considering a metal roof in 2024, acting sooner rather than later may save you money and avoid potential material shortages. At Tier-One Roofing, we’re committed to helping homeowners navigate these industry changes while ensuring top-quality roofing solutions.
📞 Call us today at (918) 393-4682 or visit www.tier-oneroofing.com to discuss your roofing options before prices increase!