With recent tariff announcements, there’s growing concern about how material costs could affect remodeling projects. While price volatility is a possibility, our approach proactively ensures that both our customers and our team are well-prepared. At Red House Design Build, we maintain regular communication with our key vendors, monitor pricing closely, and take strategic steps to insulate our clients and team from potential disruptions.

Most importantly, the pandemic’s challenges strengthened our Red House Process (RHP), sharpening the best parts of our approach and refining our ability to plan for the unexpected. We built the systems and habits needed to navigate uncertainty, and compared to supply chain disruptions in 2020-2022, the current tariff concerns are a much smaller challenge.

What We’re Seeing Right Now

Daniel, our estimator, has spoken with our suppliers, and the message is consistent: while tariffs have been announced, they haven’t yet resulted in significant price shifts. Some vendors, like Marvin Windows and Doors (via Humphrey’s), are confident in their domestic supply and haven’t increased prices—yet. Others acknowledge the situation remains fluid, with expectations that prices could rise in the near future. For now, inventories are stable, and our supply yards are well stocked to mitigate swings in supply issues, and we’re staying ahead of potential market shifts.

Learn more about our Process here

How Tariffs Affect Our Customers

Our fixed-cost pricing model is a major advantage for our clients. Once a contract is signed, they have protected their project cost—meaning Red House carries the risk, and they’re insulated from future price increases. If material costs rise, our clients actually benefit, as their home’s value may appreciate without added expense. This makes “buying now” a smart strategy, both for peace of mind and long-term equity.

Why We’re More Prepared Than Ever

The pandemic forced us to refine every aspect of the Red House Process (RHP)—from vendor relationships to purchasing strategy—ensuring we could handle supply chain shocks with minimal disruption. We took the lessons from 2020-2022 and turned them into long-term strengths, including:

• A streamlined purchasing process that allows us to secure materials early and avoid last-minute cost spikes.
  
• A proactive approach to vendor relationships, ensuring we get ahead of pricing changes rather than reacting to them.
  
• Better internal communication and coordination, so our team is always aligned and prepared for shifts in the market. 

Because of these improvements, tariffs are a challenge, but not a crisis. We have the systems in place to adapt, just as we did during a much larger disruption.

What This Means for Our Team

Internally, we’re reinforcing the importance of early purchasing and proactive planning:

• Team coordination is key—we rely on estimating, purchasing, and production to pass along any pricing updates ASAP.
  
• Buying out materials early and storing them in our warehouse ensures we secure pricing before increases take effect.
  
• Stability is our priority. Surprise is the enemy of success. We successfully navigated far greater supply chain challenges in 2020-2022, and we’re building on that experience to safeguard our client’s happiness and successful projects. 

Looking Ahead

While the long-term effects of tariffs remain uncertain, our strategy remains the same: proactive planning, strong vendor relationships, and transparent communication with our customers and team. Thanks to the Red House Process (RHP), and our remarkable team, we will continue delivering high-quality remodeling experiences without disruption.

For customers

If you’re considering a remodel, now is the time to lock in pricing before potential increases.

For our team

Stay alert, communicate early, and trust that we’re taking the proper steps to protect our projects, clients, and experience.

We’ve handled bigger challenges than tariffs and emerged stronger. Let’s keep building on our strengths!

Ready to Begin a Remodeling Project?

If you’re ready to start a project, or you want to speak with a member of the team about tariffs and building projects, don’t hesitate to give us a call! We are on your side through every part of the remodeling process.

Let’s talk today about your remodeling needs.

Start Your Planning Process With These Resources

5 Ways to Finance a Home Renovation Project

5 FAQ’s When Starting a Remodel Project

How to Discuss Budget For a Home Renovation