Home renovations are already complex, but recent policy changes from President Donald Trump are adding fresh obstacles for homeowners. New tariffs on imported cabinets, bathroom vanities, and furniture, combined with stricter immigration enforcement, are expected to increase both material and labor costs, potentially turning remodeling projects into expensive, prolonged endeavors.
New Tariffs on Cabinets and Furniture
Trump announced a 50% tariff on imported kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and related products, effective October 1. Additionally, a 30% tariff will apply to upholstered furniture such as couches, armchairs, and recliners. According to the president, these measures aim to protect U.S. manufacturing from what he describes as “unfair flooding” of imported goods.
Many American households rely heavily on imported materials. In 2024, the U.S. imported $6.4 billion worth of upholstered furniture, with $3.1 billion coming from Vietnam and $1.75 billion from China—roughly 75% of all imports. Wood cabinets and countertops amounted to $2.2 billion in imports, with Vietnam alone accounting for $922 million. With tariffs increasing import costs, prices for cabinets, vanities, and furniture are likely to rise as suppliers pass on higher expenses to consumers.
Rising Costs and Budgeting Challenges
Hannah Jones, senior economic research analyst at Realtor.com, explained that “rising costs of key renovation inputs make projects more expensive and, for some, less feasible.” She also noted that tariffs create uncertainty in budgeting, as a quote obtained today may no longer hold when materials are eventually ordered.
The Real Cost of Kitchen Remodels
Kitchen remodels are among the most expensive home improvement projects. According to HomeAdvisor, minor remodels, such as updating appliances and repainting walls, typically cost around $20,000. A full renovation—including flooring, plumbing, and a complete layout overhaul—can exceed $65,000 to $130,000. Cabinets, often the largest single expense, play a crucial role in both functionality and a home’s resale value.
Tariffs Could Delay Renovation Projects
Tariffs may also slow project timelines. As suppliers adjust to new expenses, they might source materials differently, resulting in longer lead times. Eli Moyal, COO and founder of renovation firm Chapter, explained that homeowners may initially experience price increases closer to 15–30%, as supply chains absorb part of the 50% tariff.
Labor Costs and Immigration Policies
Rising labor costs add another layer of uncertainty. Immigrant workers make up a significant portion of the U.S. construction workforce—around 25% nationally, and higher in states like Texas and California. Many undocumented workers handle labor-intensive tasks such as carpentry, roofing, and general construction.
Yelena Maleyev, senior economist at KPMG Economics, noted that deporting unauthorized workers can create bottlenecks, slowing projects and limiting employment opportunities for U.S.-born skilled labor. The result: chronic delays, higher labor costs, and potential stagnation in construction-sector growth.
Who Will Feel the Impact?
The impact of tariffs depends on sourcing strategies. Contractors using U.S.-made materials may see minimal disruption, while homeowners relying on big-box stores selling mostly imported goods could face significant price increases. Dave Grulke, founder of Milwaukee-based Big Dave’s Services, said his business primarily uses North American wood—including plywood, maple, oak, and cherry—so the tariffs don’t affect him.
Market trends also show growing interest in U.S.-made cabinets, as homeowners seek alternatives to imported goods. Following the tariff announcement, Google searches for domestic cabinetry spiked, indicating price-conscious buyers are exploring local options.
Planning Ahead for Renovations
Homeowners preparing for a remodel should consider strategies to minimize risks:
- Source materials domestically whenever possible
- Obtain firm quotes early
- Diversify suppliers to avoid delays
- Plan for potential labor shortages
Even with tariffs not fully taking effect until October 1, early planning can help homeowners mitigate financial surprises and project delays.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What products are affected by the new tariffs?
The tariffs apply to imported kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and related products (50%) and upholstered furniture like couches and armchairs (30%).
When do these tariffs take effect?
The tariffs are scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2025.
How much could these tariffs increase renovation costs?
Homeowners may initially see price hikes of 15–30% as suppliers absorb part of the tariff costs. Full 50% increases may not happen immediately.
Will all homeowners be affected equally?
No. Homeowners using domestically sourced materials may not feel the impact, while those relying on imported goods from big-box stores could face significant price increases.
How do tariffs affect project timelines?
Tariffs can lead suppliers to seek alternative sources, lengthening lead times and potentially delaying renovations.
Are labor costs also impacted?
Yes. Stricter immigration enforcement could reduce the availability of construction workers, raising labor costs and slowing projects.
How much does a typical kitchen remodel cost?
Minor remodels average around $20,000, while full renovations can range from $65,000 to $130,000, depending on size, materials, and labor.
Conclusion
Trump’s new tariffs on imported cabinets, vanities, and furniture, combined with stricter immigration policies, are reshaping the landscape of home renovations. Homeowners face rising material costs, potential labor shortages, and longer project timelines, making careful planning more critical than ever. While domestic sourcing and early budgeting can help mitigate some of these challenges, remodeling projects are likely to become more expensive and complex in the coming months. By anticipating these changes and adjusting strategies accordingly, homeowners can protect their renovation budgets and keep their remodeling dreams on track despite the shifting economic environment.
