Seattle Times Highlights NAHB’s Opposition to Lumber Tariffs
The Seattle Times has published an editorial by NAHB Chairman Chuck Fowke that lays out a strong case against tariffs on Canadian lumber shipments into the United States that are fueling lumber price volatility and harming housing affordability.
Under the headline, “Tariffs on Canadian Lumber are Driving Up Home Prices,” Fowke lays out a strong case on how the Commerce Department’s recent move to double tariffs on Canadian lumber from 9% to 17.9% has effectively delivered a body blow to American home buyers, renters and businesses that rely on lumber products.
He further cites the reasons for the latest lumber price surge and provides specific actions that policymakers need to take to reduce price volatility and increase supply.
Latest from NAHBNow
Education | Economics | Remodeling
Aug 21, 2026
Experts Forecast the Remodeling Industry's Future
NAHB’s Mid-Year Remodeling Forecast Update webinar reviewed how the remodeling industry will weather changing economic conditions, homeowner priorities and market demand.
Safety
Aug 20, 2026
OSHA Hazard Communication Compliance Deadline Set for Nov. 20
A deadline for compliance with 2024 revisions to OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is approaching for home builders and other downstream chemical users. Employers must comply with revised classifications or hazard information for substances in their workplaces by Nov. 20, 2026.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Aug 21, 2026
Second Quarter Declines for Single-Family Built-to-Rent
Single-family built-for-rent (SFBFR, or built-to-rent (BTR)) construction fell back in the second quarter of 2026, as a higher cost of financing, increased multifamily supply and policy concerns over Congressional legislation related to institutional capital froze parts of the development market.
Economics
Aug 20, 2026
Short-Term Townhouse Construction Weakness
Second quarter 2026 data reveal softer conditions for townhouse construction as housing affordability challenges affect homebuyer demand, particularly in larger metropolitan markets.
Economics
Aug 19, 2026
Flat Conditions for Custom Home Building
With overall single-family construction down almost 7% for the first seven months of 2026, custom home building has been a relative bright spot for the residential construction industry.