Big Changes in Roofing Costs
Imagine this: A storm just hit, and a homeowner calls you for a roof replacement. You give them a quote, but then the price of materials jumps 25% overnight because of new tariffs. Now what? Do you eat the extra cost, pass it to the homeowner, or hope prices drop before you take a loss?
This is exactly what roofing and construction businesses are facing right now as the 2025 steel and aluminum tariffs take effect. President Donald Trump’s 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum is meant to strengthen American industries and rebuild domestic manufacturing. In the long run, this could help the U.S. become more independent, but in the short term, prices for materials will rise, and contractors and homeowners will feel the impact.
Many other countries, including Canada, China, and the European Union, have had tariffs in place for years to protect their industries. The U.S. has generally relied on free trade, but now it’s using tariffs to make sure American businesses can compete. The big question is: How will businesses and homeowners adjust to these changes?
Why Do Tariffs Exist?
Governments use tariffs to control trade, protect industries, and encourage local production. Many of the world’s strongest economies use tariffs to make sure their industries survive. For example:
Canada puts high tariffs on imported goods, like dairy products and lumber, to protect local businesses. Some of their tariffs are over 200%.
China has long used tariffs and trade restrictions to boost its own industries and limit foreign competition.
The European Union charges import taxes on things like steel and farm products to protect its manufacturers and farmers.
For years, the U.S. faced unfair competition from foreign countries selling materials at very low prices. Because of that, many American steel and aluminum factories shut down. The 2025 tariffs are an attempt to fix that by making U.S. materials more competitive.
How This Affects Roofing & Construction
For roofers, contractors, and homebuilders, rising costs are already creating challenges. Here’s what to expect:
Higher Roofing Costs
Metal roofing, flashing, and gutters will be more expensive.
Shingles, insulation, and fasteners that contain aluminum will cost more.
Contractors will have to raise prices or absorb the cost, which could make it harder to win bids.
More Expensive Home Builds & Repairs
Steel framing, siding, and HVAC systems will cost more, increasing the overall price of new homes.
Homeowners may delay major repairs, choosing small fixes instead of full roof replacements.
Fewer affordable homes may be built, making the housing market even tougher for buyers.
Potential Supply Chain Problems
Some suppliers may stop importing certain materials, leading to shortages.
Contractors will have to find new suppliers or wait longer for shipments.
Planning ahead and securing materials early will be more important than ever.
Who Benefits and Who Struggles?
Not everyone will feel the tariffs the same way. Some will benefit, while others will face challenges.
Who Benefits?
U.S. Steel & Aluminum Producers – More demand for American-made materials.
Manufacturing Workers – More jobs could come back to steel and aluminum factories.
Domestic Material Suppliers – Companies that sell U.S.-made products will have more business.
Who Faces Challenges?
Roofing Contractors & Homebuilders – Higher costs could make bidding tougher and profit margins smaller.
Homeowners & Property Owners – Roofing and repair costs will rise, making maintenance more expensive.
Consumers in General – Not just roofing—cars, appliances, and even food prices could be affected.
How Contractors & Homeowners Can Prepare
Tariffs may be here to stay, so it’s important to plan ahead. Here are some ways to adjust:
Buy Materials Early – Prices are likely to keep rising, so securing supplies now may save money later.
Explain Price Increases to Customers – Homeowners should understand that higher material costs are driving price changes.
Look for Alternative Materials – Some products not affected by tariffs may help keep costs down.
Stay Informed – The more contractors and builders know about material costs, the better they can plan.
The Big Picture: What Does This Mean for the U.S.?
The 2025 steel and aluminum tariffs may be necessary to rebuild U.S. industries, but they come with short-term challenges. Many countries have used tariffs to protect their economies, and now the U.S. is doing the same. The trade-off is that while tariffs help American manufacturing, they also increase costs in industries that rely on these materials, like roofing and homebuilding.
At Tier-One Roofing, we want our customers to stay ahead of these changes. If you’re thinking about a roof replacement or repair, now may be the best time to act before material costs rise even more. Call us at (918) 393-4682 or visit www.tier-oneroofing.com to schedule an inspection.
Don’t wait until prices climb higher. Plan ahead and protect your investment today.