What you need to know about tariffs and government policy

By Dani Sheehan.

With changes happening every day, learn from industry experts to understand the policies, prices and pressures shaping roofing this season.

From material price hikes to supply chain slowdowns, federal tariffs and trade negotiations are quietly reshaping the roofing industry. In a recent Coffee Conversations®, made possible by supporters like Central States Manufacturing Inc., Heidi J. Ellsworth chatted with Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese LLP and Will Lorenz of General Coatings Manufacturing Corp to break down how policies are unfolding and what contractors should watch for as the busy season ramps up.

Since early this year, tariffs and immigration have dominated industry conversations. As Trent explained, “The primary purpose [of these tariffs] is to provide leverage for negotiation. There are desires to bring manufacturing back, raise revenue – but ultimately, it’s about trade positioning.”

The back and forth between countries continues to create volatility. While some tariffs are currently paused, Trent warned that “you can anticipate even as we’re talking, there’s probably going to be more changes.”

As a manufacturer, Will confirmed the impact is already being felt: “I have seen some price increases just generically – 10 to 15 to 20%, depending on which type of material.” Roofing metals like coated steel and aluminum are particularly affected. Trent added, “Most manufacturers are probably going to have pricing adjustments. That will trickle down to distribution, then the contractor, then ultimately the consumer.”

An interesting observation Will made was that roofing doesn’t get hit first, but it does get hit. “The roofing industry is one of those metrics that sort of lags behind the economy,” he shared. “If there’s going to be a recession or a downturn, it hits us later.”

That means jobs already planned and financed are likely to proceed with minimal disruption. And while pricing and material availability remain in flux, you still have time to make smart decisions. As midterm elections get closer, Trent and Will are optimistic that the uncertainty will slow down. By securing your materials, reviewing pricing strategies and staying informed, you can buffer your business from future shock.

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to dive deeper into how tariffs, trade policy and supply chain strategies are shaping the roofing industry and what you need to do to prepare.