By Cabex Construction, Cabinets Extraordinaire, and Garage Mancave
Luxury Remodelers Serving Sarasota and Manatee County, Florida
As the April 2, 2025 implementation date for the next round of tariffs approaches, many discerning homeowners and industry professionals in Sarasota, Bradenton, and Lakewood Ranch are asking a timely and important question: How will these tariffs impact kitchen cabinetry and home renovation costs?
According to Joe Menna, Owner of Cabex Construction, Cabinets Extraordinaire, and Garage Mancave, this concern is already top of mind for clients.
“We’re hearing it more and more,” Menna explains. “Clients are asking, ‘Where are your cabinets made? I don’t want to pay extraneous tariffs on kitchen cabinetry manufactured overseas.’”
This article offers insight into what these tariffs mean for your home improvement investment and how Cabex is uniquely positioned to guide clients through this evolving economic landscape.
What the Tariffs Entail
Under President Donald Trump’s “America First Trade Policy,” sweeping reciprocal tariffs are expected to be levied on imported goods starting April 2, 2025. The aim is to correct trade imbalances with nations that export more to the United States than they import from it. However, the practical effect for the homebuilding and remodeling industry—particularly in Florida—will likely be increased costs for imported materials such as wood, steel, aluminum, and hardware.
These tariffs are expected to be broad in scope, affecting goods from trading partners including Canada, the European Union, Vietnam, and China. A 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum is already in place and is poised to affect cabinet hardware, fasteners, and structural components.
For further context, view these recent articles:
- Trump tariffs and their impact on Florida’s construction sector – FOX 13 Tampa Bay
- How tariffs may affect homebuyers in Lakewood Ranch
How Tariffs Affect Cabinet Pricing
Cabinetry typically accounts for 25% to 40% of a kitchen remodeling budget. Tariff-induced price increases on imported materials—lumber, aluminum, steel, and quartz—may result in a significant rise in project costs, potentially ranging from 8% to 20%.
At Cabex Construction, we believe transparency and preparation are essential. While many providers source from countries now subject to new tariffs, we are ahead of the curve in offering alternatives that insulate our clients from these external cost pressures.
American-Made Cabinetry: A Strategic Advantage
“Yes, we offer American-made cabinets,” affirms Joe Menna. “Not only are they available—they’re exceptional.”
Cabex Construction and Cabinets Extraordinaire proudly partner with premier U.S.-based cabinet manufacturers, including:
- Bridgewood Cabinetry
- James Martin
- JSI Cabinetry
- Marsh Cabinets
- Medallion Cabinetry
These partnerships provide our clients with high-quality, American-crafted cabinetry that is not subject to the new tariffs, ensuring greater pricing stability and project predictability.
Exclusive International Partnerships Still Offer Value
While American-made options provide tariff immunity, many clients still prefer the design innovation and custom finishes available through select international vendors. Cabex has cultivated exclusive relationships with high-end global manufacturers willing to collaborate with our in-house design team to create truly bespoke cabinetry.
“These manufacturers build anything we design,” says Menna. “They never say no to us. And, importantly, they’ve committed to sharing the tariff burden with us.”
This means that even in the case of imported cabinetry, Cabex clients benefit from reduced exposure to the full impact of the tariffs—without compromising on quality or aesthetics.
Why Choose Cabex Construction in a Shifting Economic Climate
In today’s environment, where material pricing is uncertain and supply chains are increasingly complex, selecting the right design-build partner is critical. Cabex Construction stands apart by offering:
- Full-service design-build capabilities with in-house cabinetry production
- Transparent, all-inclusive contracts with no allowances or hidden fees
- A meticulous, design-forward approach that emphasizes transitional elegance
- Deep industry relationships that offer both American and global solutions
- A luxury showroom designed to inspire and prequalify discerning clients
This integrated approach allows us to maintain strict control over quality, design integrity, and cost—something not achievable through fragmented contractor arrangements.
What This Means for Homeowners, Builders, and Contractors in Manatee County
For Builders and Contractors: Expect upward pressure on project budgets, particularly for custom kitchens and baths. Bid adjustments and the inclusion of escalation clauses may be necessary to accommodate cost volatility.
For Homeowners: If you are considering a kitchen renovation or home remodeling project in 2025, we strongly advise acting now. Locking in materials and design before April 2 could save you thousands.
For the Industry as a Whole: Tariffs are likely to raise construction costs in Manatee County. This may limit the affordability of new builds, while increasing demand for high-quality remodels—precisely the area in which Cabex specializes.
As the tariff landscape evolves, the value of working with a seasoned and well-connected remodeling partner becomes increasingly clear. Whether you prioritize American-made craftsmanship or the exclusivity of globally sourced luxury materials, Cabex Construction, Cabinets Extraordinaire, and Garage Mancave offer tailored solutions that meet your vision without compromising your investment.