How Contractors Can Navigate Growth Amid Tariffs and Economic Uncertainty 

Contractors today face a complex economic environment marked by lingering inflation, high interest rates, and significant shifts in global trade policy. The proposed expansion of tariffs threatens to raise the cost of materials, while a persistent labor shortage makes it difficult to hire skilled workers. Despite these headwinds, contractors who adopt a strategic approach to sourcing, financing, and operations can not only weather the storm—but position themselves for long-term growth.  

Understanding the Impact of Tariffs 

Proposed tariffs could have wide-reaching effects on construction costs. While these tariffs may encourage domestic manufacturing in the long run, they are expected to raise the short- to medium-term cost of essential building materials—especially lumber, steel, and appliances. 

Key materials impacted include: 

• Lumber from Canada, already subject to a 14.54 percent tariff, which could rise another 25 percent.   
• Steel, with existing 25 percent tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and Brazil. 
• Components like plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems, and roofing materials, much of which are sourced from China, Mexico, and Canada. 

Recent reciprocal tariffs further complicate the picture, imposing up to 104 percent tariffs on Chinese goods, and 20 to 25 percent on imports from the EU, Canada, Mexico, and South Korea. These increases will undoubtedly drive up the cost of construction and maintenance for American homes and buildings. 

Action Step: Contractors reliant on foreign materials should immediately evaluate opportunities for domestic sourcing. If switching sources is unfeasible, staying informed on tariff developments and pivoting suppliers between countries may help minimize cost increases. 

Smart Growth Strategies in Uncertain Times 

Economic uncertainty makes expansion riskier, but not impossible. Contractors should: 

• Focus on services with clear value propositions. 
• Thoroughly test market demand and pricing before launching new offerings or locations. 
• Ensure sufficient capital reserves to cover at least several months of operating expenses. 

Financing is also becoming more challenging. With banks retreating from small business lending, contractors should maintain multiple funding relationships and explore options beyond traditional lenders. 

If facing financing hurdles, contractors should: 

1. Cast a wide net with lenders. 

2. Explore vendor financing for equipment purchases. 

3. Consult local banks on updated lending criteria. 

4. Consider non-bank lenders as a backup option—while recognizing the higher cost. 

Businesses with solid credit histories and a track record of financing essential-use equipment still have good options, but must be prepared for higher borrowing costs. It's essential to evaluate whether the expected returns from financing justify the expense. 

Cutting Costs with Smart Efficiency 

Reducing costs without sacrificing productivity often comes down to smarter processes and technology. Contractors should consider: 

• Inventory software to optimize stock levels. 
• Robotic process automation to streamline repetitive tasks. 
• AI-powered tools to accelerate communication and decision-making. 

These investments can reduce staffing needs and make growth more sustainable by lowering fixed costs and improving scalability. 

Additional efficiency measures include: 

Inventory Management: Keep stock lean by aligning inventory levels with near-term job requirements. 

Cash Flow Monitoring: Improve vendor terms, explore financing, and shift fixed costs to variable where possible.  

Final Thoughts 

The construction sector may be facing economic turbulence, but with a proactive strategy—focused on adaptability, financial resilience, and operational efficiency—contractors can not only survive but thrive.