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How Tariffs Will Impact the Price of Your Cabinets

Are you considering a home renovation or planning a big kitchen upgrade?

If so, you might be wondering, “Will cabinet prices go up because of Trump’s Tariffs?”

How so?

The global economy can significantly influence local projects, and tariffs will play an increasingly important role in shaping the cost of materials and labor.

This article dives into what tariffs are, how they affect cabinet prices, and what you—whether you’re a homeowner, interior designer, or contractor—can do to manage these costs.

What Are Tariffs and How Do They Work?

Simply put, tariffs are taxes or fees imposed by a government on goods imported from another country.

These taxes are often designed to protect domestic industries or as a political tool in trade disputes.

For example, the U.S. might impose tariffs on imported Chinese goods to encourage local manufacturers and reduce dependence on foreign-made materials.

But here’s the catch—these taxes are often passed on to businesses and consumers like you.

This means tariffs don’t just impact large corporations or foreign suppliers; they affect everyday homeowners and renovation professionals as well.

Cabinets, being a big-ticket item in many renovations, may be particularly vulnerable.

How Tariffs Affect Cabinet Prices

The ripple effects of tariffs can hit several parts of the supply chain for cabinets, causing prices to rise.

Here’s how they may impact the final price tag of your dream cabinetry system.

1. Rising Material Costs

Cabinets are typically made with a combination of hardwoods, engineered wood, and metal hardware (like hinges and drawer slides).

If tariffs are imposed on imported lumber, wood products, or metal parts, manufacturers face higher production costs.

These increased expenses are then passed on to buyers.

2. Higher Hardware Costs

While materials make up a large portion of cabinet costs, small hardware pieces like screws, handles, and slides are often imported.

Tariffs on metal and steel imports can significantly drive up the price of these seemingly minor components, further increasing the overall cost of cabinetry.

3. Labor Costs Go Up

When the base cost of materials rises, manufacturers often need to adjust their labor budgets to accommodate the shift.

This trickles down to contractors or cabinet-making professionals, who then charge higher rates for their work.

Who Feels the Impact of Tariffs?

While tariffs affect various industries, when it comes to cabinets, these three groups feel the impact most directly:

  • Homeowners

If you’re working on a home renovation, you may have already noticed higher quotes for custom cabinetry or even off-the-shelf options.

A smaller budget means you may need to make some compromises on design or materials.

  • Interior Designers

Designers often oversee everything from sourcing to finishing, so rising costs due to tariffs can disrupt their carefully planned budgets.

Price increases may also force designers to get increasingly creative with sourcing materials or adjust client expectations to fit within available funds.

  • Contractors

For contractors who handle larger remodeling projects, tariffs can lead to tighter margins.

They must often renegotiate supplier prices or delay projects until they can find more affordable materials.

Strategies to Manage Cabinet Costs Despite Tariffs

Although tariffs can make cabinets more expensive, there are smart ways to keep costs under control without sacrificing quality.

Consider these strategies while planning your next project.

1. Buy Domestically Manufactured Cabinets

Supporting local cabinet manufacturers could help you avoid the added costs of imported goods subject to tariffs.

Locally produced cabinets may also come with shorter delivery times and ensure higher quality.

2. Plan Ahead

Knowing that tariffs could drive up prices, it’s wise to budget for renovation projects as early as possible.

Secure quotes and lock in prices before suppliers or contractors increase their rates.

3. Explore Alternative Materials

Instead of traditional hardwoods, consider alternative materials like engineered wood or MDF (medium-density fiberboard).

These materials are often more affordable and still create a polished, high-end look.

4. Work with ModernTwenty Furniture

ModernTwenty Furniture specializes in premium, cost-effective cabinets designed to withstand rising market pressures.

Our team is skilled at sourcing materials from diverse locations, allowing us to provide high-quality cabinets at competitive prices.

5. Stay Updated on Tariff News

Trade policies are always evolving.

By keeping tabs on tariff updates, you’ll be better prepared to anticipate price changes and time your purchases strategically.

The FINAL THOUGHT ON TARIFFS

Tariffs can seem like a distant and complex issue, but their impact is felt directly by homeowners, designers, and contractors.

While rising cabinet prices may feel out of your control, strategic planning and working with the right suppliers can help you manage costs effectively.

If you’re ready to tackle your next cabinet project while staying mindful of your budget, reach out to us today.

We’ll help you find the perfect solution—no matter the market climate.

Contact Us to learn more about our customizable, budget-friendly cabinetry options.

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