b'THE OFFICIAL NFBA MAGAZINECONTRACTORS BRACEFOR STEEL, ALUMINUM TARIFF IMPACTS Construction firms are likely to feel the squeeze within months if the new fees on imported materialstake effect in March.BUSINESS MANAGEMENTBySebastian Obando, Construction Dive Reporter T ariffs on steel and aluminum could dodemand, said Damiecki. Sectors like more than curb importsthey could putcommercial buildings, bridges and the brakes on construction activity, too. residential homes could be impacted. President Donald Trump signed executive ordersData center work and manufacturing on Feb. 10 implementing 25% tariffs on all steel andfacilities may be insulated because of aluminum imports into the U.S., effective Marchthe sheer demand for those.12. The move could have a harmful effect on projectThe size and scope of a project will also determine momentum, market observers told Constructionhow significantly it is affected by tariffs, said Brian Dive.Kassalen, principal and construction industry leader Steelandaluminumarebothfundamentalat Chicago-based Baker Tilly, an advisory, tax and components of construction materials, meaningassurance firm.priceincreaseswilllikelyripplethroughtheThe larger the project, the more impact tariffs could industry,saidScottDamiecki,partnerandhave, said Kassalen. For example, commercial construction industry leader at New York City- buildings, multifamily buildings and government basedCohnReznick,anaccounting,taxandbuildings in the planning stage are more likely to advisory firm. be impacted by tariffs, as opposed to a single-family Increased material costs will likely drive up overallhome thats going to be completed by summer.cost of construction, which tends to decrease overallThat type of price volatility could have an impact continued on page: 98 / FRAME BUILDER - VOL6 2'