From Tariffs to Timelines: The Case for Choosing Local Cabinetry
How Shifting Market Forces Are Redefining the Value of Local Craftsmanship
Every industry feels it: the undercurrent of change. Prices surge, timelines stretch, and a lot of business has gone online (including this article); customer service often feels like it’s taken a back seat in many instances. For those building or renovating, these disruptions are more than headlines; they shape how homes take form. At Peters Cabinetry, we’ve been watching the market evolve and see a new story emerging. One that reaffirms the enduring value of local craftsmanship.
In recent years, imported “semi-custom” cabinets have become a popular option for homeowners, builders, and designers. However, these cabinets have increasingly faced supply chain disruptions and quality inconsistencies. Additionally, just a few weeks ago, President Trump signed a Proclamation putting Section 232 tariffs into effect. Currently, this proclamation places a 25% tariff on “Imports of Timber, Lumber, and Their Derivative Products,” and it is scheduled to increase these tariffs to 50% at the beginning of the year. One of the “Derivative Products” mentioned explicitly in the Proclamation is imported kitchen cabinets.
This new 50% tariff effectively shrinks the gap between stock or box cabinets and our Custom Select line. If you’ve been speccing imported or box cabinets in your kitchen and bath build-outs, now is the time to take a closer look at Custom Select.
Why Local Makes Sense Now More Than Ever
At Peters Cabinetry, we believe there is a better way. Locally made custom and semi-custom cabinets bring you craftsmanship, reliability, and long-term value that imported cabinets simply can’t match. Some of the benefits of working with a local manufacturer:
No tariff surprises or hidden costs
Your investment goes directly toward quality materials and craftsmanship, not unpredictable import fees.Shorter lead times
Local production means your cabinets are designed, built, and delivered on your schedule, not at the mercy of international shipping lanes.Superior materials and craftsmanship
Every cabinet we produce is made with high-grade materials, expert joinery, and finishes designed to last for generations.A partnership you can trust
From in-person measurements to hands-on support during installation, we will be there every step of the way. And long after your cabinets are installed, you’ll have a trusted partner who stands by their work.Better communication
We prioritize communication so you know exactly what to expect and where things stand with your project at all times. You can even visit the workshop to see your project being built.Support the local community
Working with a local business also means investing in your community and contributing to local job creation and economic growth.
The Bottom Line
Imported cabinet tariffs may fluctuate, but the value of local craftsmanship remains steady. At Peters Cabinetry, we build more than cabinets. We build lasting relationships and living spaces that reflect your personal style. Whether you’re renovating a historic home or designing a modern kitchen from scratch, our team is here to guide you through the process with transparency, creativity, and signature craftsmanship.
