How Recent Tariffs Could Affect Your Construction Project (And What Proform Is Doing to Stay Ahead)

Building a custom home is a major investment—and in today’s global economy, even international policy can impact your budget, timeline, and materials.

If you’ve heard about recent tariffs in the news, you might be wondering:

– Will this affect my project?
– Could prices spike halfway through construction?
– Should I wait to build?

Let’s break it down.

What’s Going On With Tariffs Right Now?

Over the past several years, the U.S. has introduced or extended tariffs on a wide range of imported goods—including many materials commonly used in residential construction.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Steel & Aluminum: Framing, fasteners, roofing systems, and window components have all seen price hikes due to tariffs on foreign metals.
• Canadian Lumber: Duties on softwood lumber continue to affect framing costs, particularly in wood-heavy builds like we often see in Seattle and Austin.
• Chinese Imports: Decorative lighting, hardware, plumbing fixtures, tile, and cabinetry components are frequently impacted by tariffs or trade restrictions.

Even if the materials themselves aren’t tariffed, supply chain disruptions ripple through the market, leading to increased costs, lower availability, and longer lead times.

Photo: AB Photo & Video

How This Translates to Your Project

At the luxury level, every material matters—and many of our clients have very specific visions for their home. So when supply or pricing changes unexpectedly, it can create real challenges:

• Higher Material Costs: Project budgets can shift if material pricing jumps after an estimate is finalized.
• Limited Availability: Some finishes, fixtures, or custom elements may be delayed or discontinued.
• Timeline Delays: Waiting for products caught in customs or on backorder can slow the entire build.
• Design Adjustments Mid-Project: If certain materials become unavailable, substitutions need to be carefully managed to protect the overall aesthetic.

What We’re Doing at Proform to Stay Ahead

We’ve seen this coming—and we’ve adjusted.

Here’s how Proform Builds is navigating the shifting landscape to keep our projects smooth, on-budget, and beautiful:

√  Smarter Sourcing
We maintain strong relationships with trusted vendors and prioritize U.S.-based or tariff-exempt suppliers when possible. Our goal is always to protect quality while minimizing pricing volatility

√  Early Procurement
We order key materials earlier in the process—sometimes before framing even starts—so they’re ready when we need them.

√  Transparent Cost Planning
We’re upfront about where potential surges could occur and build contingencies into our planning. No surprises, no confusion—just clarity.

√  Design-First Substitutions
If a change is needed, we offer curated alternatives that meet the same design intent and performance standards. Our design and build teams work hand-in-hand to preserve the original vision.

Photo: AB Photo & Video

Why Flexibility Matters More Than Ever

In today’s world, agility is part of luxury. You want a builder who not only delivers beautiful homes—but knows how to navigate change gracefully. Tariffs, market shifts, and supply chain hiccups are becoming the norm. The question isn’t if they’ll affect construction—it’s whether your builder is ready to handle them.

Bottom Line? You’re in Good Hands

At Proform, we stay ahead of industry changes so you don’t have to.
Our commitment is simple: Build with integrity. Communicate clearly. Deliver excellence—every time.

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Proform Builds | Luxury Home Builders in Seattle & Austin
+1(206) 910-0303
info@proformbuilds.com

Seattle
701 NE Northlake Way
Seattle, WA 98105

Austin
1615 W Koenig Ln
Austin, TX 78756