Working on a kitchen model is always both fun and challenging. However, one thing that should be taken into account, regardless of full kitchen renovation or just a minor update, is international trade laws and tariffs. These can affect your budget in a way you probably haven’t thought about. With recent changes in the trade policy of the U.S., remodeling materials and appliances may have reached prices unforeseen by prospective buyers.
Would kitchen tariffs and duties affect your kitchen renovation? That is what today’s post aims to explain: What is happening with tariffs, how they could affect your kitchen renovation, and what you can do to solve these challenges?
Let’s unroll it all one by one.
What’s Going On With Tariffs?
Unfortunately for homeowners, many imported materials are essential in home improvement projects, especially kitchen remodels.
Tariffs are taxes put into place by a government on a product entering into the country. The argument in favour of tariffs is to protect domestic producers and serve as a bargaining agent in political negotiations. Over the last few years – and especially in 2025 – the United States has seen this series of tariffs being introduced or reinstated on products coming in from countries such as China, Canada, the EU, and others.
As of this year, the U.S. seems to have imposed a standard tariff of 10% on most imported goods, while other categories have tariffs that tend to rise as high as 25% and more; these include:
Should You Delay Your Kitchen Remodel?
It’s a reasonable question. The idea of paying more due to factors outside your control might make you reconsider your plans. However, delaying your kitchen renovation may not necessarily save you money. Here’s why:
- Prices may continue to rise. If tariffs remain in place – or if new ones are introduced – costs could go even higher in the coming months.
- Material shortages could worsen. Ongoing global supply chain issues mean some materials may become harder to find, especially if remodeling demand remains strong.
- Labor costs are increasing. Construction labor shortages have also pushed up prices. Waiting too long could mean paying more for contractors later.
That said, remodeling smartly and strategically can still help you control costs.
How Tariffs Affect Kitchen Renovations
Kitchen renovation projects will consist of diverse materials, fixtures, and appliances, many of which are imported or rely on international supply chains. A tariff may have direct or indirect effects on the matter, depending on your choice and source. Below, we will evaluate some areas where you might encounter increased costs as a result of tariffs.
1. Cabinetry
Cabinets make up a big part of the kitchen renovation price. A good number of cabinets in the last 10 years sold in the U.S. were made overseas, or at least constructed using imported wood and hardware. China and Canada have been the top suppliers. Because of the tariffs on both raw materials and finished cabinetry, many markets have witnessed price increments anywhere from 10% to 30%.
2. Appliances
Your refrigerator may be one example. Most of the components are imported from outside Canada: electrical circuits, stainless steel, and computer chips from Asia or Europe; the recent tariffs have affected all of these. This has increased prices and caused availability problems for some popular appliance models.
3. Countertops and Tiles
Granite, quartz, marble, and ceramic tiles are commonly imported. Italy, Brazil, and China are among the biggest exporters of these products. As the tariffs raise costs on practically all stages of any project, with these countries targeted, materials, transportation, and even installation will be affected.
4. Fixtures and Hardware
Faucets, drawer pulls, sinks, and lights are typically imported from Europe or Asia. Therefore, small increases in price can be multiplied across all components in the process of completing a kitchen.
5. Building and Finishing Materials
All kitchen remodels involving opening walls here, installing new windows, or even replacing the floors, will need plywood, insulation, aluminum, and vinyl, materials that have all experienced some degree of tariff-induced inflation.
How to Navigate a Remodel During Tariff Uncertainty
Here are a few pointers on keeping on budget while considering an impending tariff on your kitchen renovation:
- Early and detailed planning
This basically translates to: the earlier you finish your design and material selection process, the less you will suffer price fluctuations and unexpected expenses.
- Domestic materials
Materials and products should be purchased from within the country, or when possible, from countries not severely affected by tariffs.
- Locally sourced contracting
Local remodelers usually have a good relationship with their suppliers, which might lead you to finding cheaper options.
- Exploring alternatives
Alternatives like laminate countertops instead of quartz, and local cabinetry instead of imported brands, are a different way to keep the style but reduce cost.
- Get several quotes
Don’t settle on the first supplier or contractor. Doing research will give you an idea of where you can save.
Wrap Up: Will Tariffs Affect Your Kitchen Remodel?
The short answer: yes, tariffs will affect the cost of your kitchen remodel if you are depending on imported materials or appliances. However, that does not mean your plans should be left aside. If you plan ahead, source well, and hire a trusted and good contractor, you will still have the kitchen of your dreams.
Now, more than ever, it is important to understand the market and to make informed decisions. At the end of the day, a kitchen remodel is an investment in your home – and with a little extra planning, you can make it a smart one, even in the face of tariffs.
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