Tariffs
The past six weeks have been a roller coaster regarding tariffs. As of today, no new tariffs have been imposed on Canadian lumber. However, April 2nd is a key date when a potential 25% increase could take effect. Twice this year, tariffs were implemented only to be removed shortly after.
Other materials are experiencing price inflation due to existing tariffs. Products containing aluminum and some imported fasteners are seeing upward pricing pressure—not at full tariff levels, but enough to cause concern.
The biggest area of impact has been White Cedar Shingles, both raw and prefinished. The uncertainty surrounding tariffs has led to a surge in demand, especially for green/raw shingles, but all white cedar shingles have been affected.
If a lasting tariff is imposed on Canadian lumber, prices will likely rise—but not necessarily at the full tariff rate, as alternative wood species provide competition.
NAHB has been advocating against tariffs (or at least for an exemption for building materials) and is continuing to engage with the White House.
HBRACC, through the National Association and State Association, will continue monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they unfold.
Tariffs
The past six weeks have been a roller coaster regarding tariffs. As of today, no new tariffs have been imposed on Canadian lumber. However, April 2nd is a key date when a potential 25% increase could take effect. Twice this year, tariffs were implemented only to be removed shortly after. Other materials are experiencing price…
New Energy Code in Effect
New energy code went into effect Feb 14th. Big Changes Coming to the Stretch & Specialized Energy Codes! The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has proposed updates to the Stretch and Specialized Energy Codes based on feedback from the past year and a half. Key changes for residential construction include new HERS credit…
Michael English House & Skilled Purpose Program
At the February Dinner Meeting, Vincent English introduced Skilled Purpose, a new nonprofit training program tackling Cape Cod’s skilled labor shortage. With 264 unfilled carpenter positions annually and no local training programs, the Michael English House, Inc. is bridging the gap with a 12-week carpentry program designed for individuals in recovery and those reentering society…
Understanding the Energy Code: What You Need to Know
Building codes constantly evolve, and staying compliant with the latest energy code is crucial for contractors, architects, and homeowners alike. These regulations ensure buildings are designed to be more energy-efficient, reducing waste and cutting costs in the long run. Understanding the current energy code can be complex when navigating insulation requirements, HVAC efficiency, or air…
SV Design Welcomes Anne Marie Garcia as Director of Business Development & Marketing
SV Design, a leading Architect + Build firm with offices in Beverly, Chatham, and Winchester, MA, has announced an exciting new addition to their team. Anne Marie Garcia, LEED AP, has joined as the Director of Business Development & Marketing, bringing with her a wealth of experience in architecture, interiors, and product design. This strategic…
A Special Thank You from Garry Prevedini, U.S. Lumber Co.
“To the many builders, remodelers, dealer personnel, architects and manufacturers reps I have worked with over the 42 years I have covered the Cape Cod and S.E. Mass market, I want to say ‘THANK YOU!’ After 47 years in our industry, I’ll be retiring at the end of February. It has been a pleasure and an honor to work…
ADU Regulations Update
Our mission at the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Cape Cod (HBRACC) is to support and empower building professionals across the region. We do this by providing resources, advocacy, and opportunities that drive the growth and success of the local building industry. In this month’s update, we’re excited to share a critical regulatory development,…
Committees- Volunteer Opportunities
Update 06/18/2024 MEMBERSHIP & BENEFITS COMMITTEE Shall oversee the application and review procedures for initial and renewal Memberships. It may research and advise the Board of Directors on Membership trends, retention & renewal rates, and benefits & programs to increase Membership. The President shall appoint the chair of the Membership & Benefits Committee. This…
Celebrating Success: HBRACC 2024 Annual Dinner Highlights
As the sun set on another eventful year, the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Cape Cod hosted the much-anticipated HBRACC 2024 Annual Dinner, encapsulating a year of dedication, community service, and industry excellence. With the buzz of excitement and the clinking of glasses, members gathered to reflect on a year that, despite challenges, yielded…
HBRACC Appoints New Executive Officer, Stefanie Coxe
The Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Cape Cod Board of Directors is pleased to announce that it has named Stefanie Coxe as its new Executive Officer. Stefanie brings two decades of public policy and nonprofit administration experience to the post. An expert on housing advocacy, she has worked with organizations such as Housing Assistance…