Theodore Labonte
WORCESTER, MA, Apr. 28, 2025 /PRSearchEngine/ Theodore Labonte, General Contractor and owner/founder of Hemlock Contracting LLC, Hemlock Roofing and Sustainable Decks discusses how tariffs will impact lumber prices in the United States. Due to President Donald J. Trump’s broad tariffs placed on Canada and Mexico, prices are expected to drive up on lumber in the United States. Canada is the primary foreign supplier of lumber imports in the country.
Tariffs put in place in Canada, Mexico and around the world are impacting the lumber industry, explains Theodore Labonte, General Contractor. As the Owner/Founder of Hemlock Contracting, Hemlock Roofing and Sustainable Decks, Labonte is experiencing the impact of the tariffs on lumber supply, firsthand. According to the US Department of Commerce, over eighty percent of lumber imports come from Canada, followed by just over six percent from Germany, nearly three percent coming from Sweden and a marginal 1.4% from Brazil. While 72% of US lumber is produced by domestic sources, nearly 30% of the country’s supply is imported from Canada — which poses a major challenge for contractors sourcing lumber.
Higher import costs, caused by tariffs, are expected to increase the price of contracting, building and construction projects in the United States, explains Theodore Labonte. This is not a personal choice made by companies like Hemlock Contracting, who are going above and beyond to ensure quality work at affordable prices for their customers. However, the rise in prices for lumber in the United States are steadily increasing, which has created a ripple effect through the construction and housing industries. New construction homes and home renovations are steadily increasing, due to the increased cost associated with securing lumber.
There is anticipated to be a reduced demand for new homes in the United States, according to Hemlock Contracting Founder/Owner, Theodore Labonte. This could mean an alternative rise in home renovations. Hemlock Contracting encourages consumers to consider planning your next home renovation before tariffs sweep into full effect.
About Theodore Labonte
Theodore Labonte is the Founder/Owner of Hemlock Contracting LLC, Hemlock Roofing and Sustainable Decks. The General Contractor and his crew proudly serve the Greater Worcester Area, including areas of the Metrowest, such as Boston and Braintree. The expert team specialize in home additions, remodeling, roof contracting and deck building.
