New Lumber and Furniture Tariffs Could Impact Florida’s Building Materials Industry

The Florida building materials industry is facing a significant shake-up as new U.S. tariffs on lumber, kitchen cabinets, and furniture are set to take effect. Starting October 14, 2025, the U.S. Commerce Department will impose a 10% tariff on all timber and lumber imports and a 25% tariff on imported kitchen cabinets and furniture. These tariffs are scheduled to increase on January 1, 2026, with kitchen cabinets jumping to 50% and furniture to 30%.

​These new tariffs will create additional headwinds for Florida’s builders, raising construction and renovation costs at a time when housing demand is already high.

Rising Costs for Florida Builders and Homeowners

​Florida relies heavily on imported lumber to meet domestic construction needs, sourcing nearly one-third of its softwood lumber from countries like Canada. The new tariffs are expected to increase construction and renovation costs, which may drive up home prices across the state. Industry experts warn that while these tariffs are designed to support domestic wood production, current U.S. sawmills operate at just 64% capacity, meaning it will take years for domestic supply to catch up.
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Builders and remodelers in Florida are already navigating rising material costs. The added tariffs on furniture and cabinetry, combined with increased lumber prices, could strain budgets for residential and commercial projects. For homeowners, this means higher costs for new homes, remodeling, and renovations.

Rising Costs for Florida Builders and Homeowners

​Florida relies heavily on imported lumber to meet domestic construction needs, sourcing nearly one-third of its softwood lumber from countries like Canada. The new tariffs are expected to increase construction and renovation costs, which may drive up home prices across the state. Industry experts warn that while these tariffs are designed to support domestic wood production, current U.S. sawmills operate at just 64% capacity, meaning it will take years for domestic supply to catch up.
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Builders and remodelers in Florida are already navigating rising material costs. The added tariffs on furniture and cabinetry, combined with increased lumber prices, could strain budgets for residential and commercial projects. For homeowners, this means higher costs for new homes, remodeling, and renovations.

Implications for Florida’s Building Materials Market

The tariffs, imposed under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, are intended to protect U.S. industries and national security. However, they also have the potential to exacerbate housing affordability challenges in Florida. With demand for new construction remaining high, the state’s builders may need to adjust project planning, sourcing strategies, and pricing models to offset increased material costs.
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The Florida building materials industry, including lumber suppliers, cabinet makers, and furniture providers, will need to adapt quickly. Some opportunities exist for domestic producers to expand capacity, while innovative solutions like reclaimed wood, alternative materials, and pre-fabricated components could help mitigate rising costs.

Looking Ahead

​Industry leaders urge continued dialogue between the U.S. government and global trading partners to resolve tariffs in a fair and equitable manner. Florida builders and suppliers are also encouraged to explore partnerships, optimize supply chains, and increase efficiency to maintain competitive pricing for clients.
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As tariffs impact the broader U.S. housing market, Florida’s building materials industry will play a critical role in supporting sustainable growth, maintaining housing affordability, and driving economic resilience in the state.