Inflation is driving up costs in daily items, this includes material for remodels. While overall wholesale and consumer inflation has steadied, building materials face
The price of metals used in elevated finishes is not immune. Copper prices continue to rise, this affects copper roofs, custom finishes and wiring. This tracks to other materials, “Custom bronze stair railings and balcony trims, for example, are up 15% to 20% since last year,” said Kyle Peacock of Peacock Tariff Consulting. “Brass fixtures, from faucets and lighting to cabinet hardware, have risen 12% to 16% year over year.”
Wood and lumber is also a victim of inflation, not just tariffs, particularly for cabinetry and premium hardwoods. The tariffs imposed by the The U.S. Commerce Department go into effect on Oct. 14.
“Wood prices have spiked approximately 40% over the past five years,” said Grey Marker, president of Marker Construction Group in Palm Beach, Florida. “That’s had a big impact on things like framing, trim work and other finishes.”
Stone used in luxury kitchen and bath remodels are seeing the increase as well. This includes Quartz countertops, which were not considered high end luxury, are seeing a spike. “We used to quote Caesarstone and similar brands at $65 to $75 a square foot installed, now we’re at $95 to $110 for the same quality,” said Tyler Tranni of Tranni Home Remodeling.
