We are still early in this tariff fiasco and it’s hard to say how everything will shake out. However, based on Trudeau’s interactions with Trump, he feels that we’ll be engaged in a trade war for the foreseeable future.

Canada is steadfast in its resolve to end this on and off again tariff war and get all the tariffs dropped once and for all. For that reason, despite the U.S. pausing tariffs on some Canadian goods, Canada is maintaining its initial round of 25 percent tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods and has since imposed a second set of tariffs worth $29.8 billion in response to the U.S. tariff on Canadian aluminum and steel.

So, in the meantime, the show must go on. Canadians still need goods, and construction projects can’t always wait to order materials. This guide explores the made-in-Canada options a buyer can look at to replace American building supplies that are now subject to the 25 percent retaliatory tariff. From appliances to steel, we look at what’s available and how you can keep your hard-earned dollars in Canada so the country can remain economically strong through this ordeal.

Round 1: What’s Tariffed?

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The complete list of U.S. products subject to Canada’s first 25 percent retaliatory tariff is listed here on the Government of Canada website. However, in this guide we will examine a short list of items directly affecting the construction and renovation industries. Here’s the list of building supplies that are affected by the first round of tariffs.

Appliances – Dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, stoves and ranges (gas, liquid and solid fuel), washing machines, water heaters, immersion heaters, fans

Lumber – (Pine, fir, spruce, hemlock, oak, maple, cherry, ash, birch, poplar, etc.), siding, shingles and shakes

Wood products – Veneer and plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), particle board and fibreboard

Engineered wood – (Glue-laminated timber, cross-laminated timber, I-beams), assembled flooring panels (bamboo, mosaic, multilayer)

Doors, windows and thresholds (plastic and wood)

Builders’ joinery and carpentry – Doors, windows, frames, beams, posts

Hand tools – Saws, wrenches, hammers, chisels, screwdrivers, drills, chain saws, stapling guns, clamps and vices, air compressors

Vinyl and plastic floor coverings

Carpet – Wool, synthetic, tufted, woven

Rubber floor coverings and mats

Ceramic and plastic sinks

Bathroom fixtures – Wash basins, toilets, bathtubs, shower units

LED ceiling lights, outdoor and commercial lighting fixtures

Round 2: What’s Tariffed?

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On March 13, 2025, the Government of Canada imposed a 25 percent retaliatory tariff on an additional $29.8 billion of U.S. products. In this case, the tariffs are mainly on aluminum and steel (find the full list of products being tariffed here).

Both these metals are essential for construction, providing structural frameworks, reinforcements and durable components for modern projects. Canada’s steel and aluminum industries are noteworthy because they are among the most sustainable globally due to the extensive use of renewable hydroelectric power and the implementation of cutting-edge technology, making Canadian steel and aluminum both a patriotic and environmentally responsible choice.

Iron and steel products – Broadly encompassing various forms of iron and steel, including semi-finished products, flat-rolled products, bars, rods, angles, shapes and sections.

Aluminum and related products – This includes unwrought aluminum, aluminum waste and scrap, aluminum plates, sheets and strips.​

Structures and parts thereof – This pertains to prefabricated buildings, bridges, bridge sections, towers, lattice masts and other similar structures made of iron, steel or aluminum.​

Tubes, pipes and hollow profiles – Including line pipe used for oil or gas pipelines, casing and tubing for drilling and other pipes made of iron or steel.​

Reservoirs, tanks, vats and similar containers made of iron, steel or aluminum.

Metal mountings, fittings and articles – Hardware items such as hinges, mountings and fittings for doors, windows and other furniture made of base metals like iron, steel or aluminum. 

Appliances

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Danby Appliances

Established over 75 years ago, Danby specializes in designing and distributing compact and specialty appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers and microwaves. The company emphasizes corporate social responsibility, ensuring ethical working conditions, fair pay and strict adherence to environmental regulations throughout its supply chain. Danby also focuses on sustainability by refurbishing appliances to reduce waste and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Over the years, I have purchased a minifridge and dehumidifier and found them affordable, quality items. ​

GIANT Inc.

GIANT manufactures a comprehensive range of residential and commercial water heaters using high-quality Canadian materials. The company is committed to producing safe products that stand out for their performance and sustainability, incorporating environmentally friendly components to enhance everyday living. ​

MPI Morheat

MPI Morheat specializes in electric heaters and elements, offering tubular, cartridge and immersion heaters. The immersion heaters are designed for industrial applications and provide efficient heating solutions.

Unique Appliances Ltd

Established over 30 years ago, Unique Appliances designs stylish kitchen appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, ranges and dishwashers. If you fancy classic-looking appliances, they also offer a retro-inspired line of products. Their products combine modern functionality with classic design elements, catering to consumers seeking style and efficiency.

Stirling Marathon

Stirling Marathon offers a variety of home appliances, such as refrigerators, freezers, ranges and laundry machines. Their product line includes compact and mid-size refrigerators, upright and chest freezers and electric ranges, providing diverse options for Canadian consumers.

Lumber and Wood Products

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West Fraser

One of the largest lumber producers in North America, West Fraser operates 34 sawmills across British Columbia, Alberta and the southern United States. The company supplies softwood lumber products such as Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF), Douglas Fir-Larch, and Hem-Fir while maintaining a strong focus on sustainable forest management. Their harvesting practices prioritize long-term forest health, ensuring a renewable supply of high-quality materials. 

Maibec 

A major industry player, Maibec specializes in building siding systems and produces genuine wood siding, engineered siding, fastened stone veneer and white cedar shingles. Their commitment to sustainable forestry ensures long-term resource preservation while delivering top-quality exterior products. I have firsthand experience using their siding products, shingles and shakes, and I highly recommend them as a quality Canadian wood product producer. 

Arbec Forest Products

Arbec Forest Products, known for its Oriented Strand Board (OSB) panels, operates facilities in Quebec and New Brunswick. Arbec prioritizes sustainability by managing renewable resources and emphasizing eco-friendly production methods.

Mercier Wood Flooring

Mercier Wood Flooring is a top Canadian choice for those seeking high-end hardwood flooring. Offering a variety of solid and engineered hardwood options, including Red Oak, White Oak and Maple, Mercier ensures its sourcing and manufacturing processes align with environmental best practices. 

Brenlo

Brenlo provides architects, designers and builders with various profiles and bespoke designs for custom wood mouldings and doors. As an FSC-certified company and Canada Green Building Council member, Brenlo actively participates in sustainable building initiatives, adhering to LEED standards and AWMAC commercial specifications. I can personally attest to this company’s professionalism and quality products, as they were a regular supplier when I completed higher-end renovations and custom cabinetry products. 

General Building Materials

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IKO

IKO is a global leader in roofing materials and manufactures asphalt shingles, waterproofing and insulation products with a strong focus on maximizing efficiency, reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. 

JELD-WEN

JELD-WEN offers energy-efficient options for windows and doors that contribute to green building standards. Their dedication to sustainability makes them a reliable choice for residential and commercial projects. You can find their products at Home Depot. 

GreenMantra Technologies

Based in Brantford, Ontario, GreenMantra specializes in converting recycled plastics into value-added synthetic waxes and specialty polymers, which they utilize in various applications, including roofing and paving. Their innovative approach contributes to a circular economy by upcycling post-consumer and post-industrial recycled plastics.

Hand and Power Tools

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Gray Tools

Established in 1912, Gray Tools is Canada’s sole professional hand tool manufacturer. Their extensive product line includes master sets, toolboxes, hand sockets, impact sockets, wrenches, torque tools, hex keys, screwdrivers, pliers, snips, cutters, punches, chisels, pry bars, hammers, vises, clamps and more. Gray Tools has built a reputation for delivering high-quality, durable tools that meet the rigorous demands of professionals across various industries.

Genius Tools

Genius Tools is a Canadian manufacturer of hand and impact tools designed for industrial and automotive professionals. Their product catalog boasts over 9,000 items, including hand sockets, impact sockets, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, hammers, pneumatic, torque and automotive specialty tools. Genius Tools emphasizes quality and reliability, ensuring its tools withstand the demands of daily professional use.

Veritas Tools (Lee Valley Tools)

Based in Ottawa, Veritas Tools is the manufacturing arm of Lee Valley Tools, a renowned Canadian retailer of woodworking and gardening tools. Since 1985, Veritas has developed innovative tools, including sharpening systems, planes, marking and measuring tools, catering to amateur and professional woodworkers. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a respected place in the woodworking community, and they inherently support sustainability by promoting long-lasting products that reduce the need for frequent replacements. I own several items, including an angle bevel, chisels, and a digital compass, which still work like on the day I purchased them. 

King Canada

Established in 1983, King Canada has become a leading distributor of woodworking, metalworking, automotive and material handling machinery, as well as tools and accessories. Their product line includes drills, saws, air compressors and other power tools. King Canada is known for providing innovative, high-quality products at competitive prices, catering to professionals and DIY enthusiasts. ​I own some of their benchtop tools and can say they are quality products that can last a lifetime. 

Sinks, Toilets, Bathtubs and Shower Units

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Acritec Industries

Acritec is a family-owned Canadian company based in Langley, British Columbia. Established in 1984, it manufactures and distributes various bathroom fixtures, including acrylic bathtubs, shower bases, basins and sinks. Its long-standing presence in the Canadian market reflects its commitment to quality and community.

Vinyl and Plastic Floor Coverings

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Forbo Flooring Systems

Forbo offers eco-friendly vinyl flooring options in Canada. Their commercial vinyl products are noted for low carbon emissions and are supported by third-party verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), which underscore their dedication to sustainability.

Steel Products

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ArcelorMittal Dofasco

Based in Hamilton, Ontario, ArcelorMittal Dofasco is a leading steel producer in Canada, recognized for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company integrates advanced technologies and processes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, continuously improving its environmental footprint.

Notably, ArcelorMittal Dofasco became North America’s first integrated steel mill to earn ISO 50001 energy management certification, highlighting its dedication to systematic energy efficiency practices. Additionally, the company has invested in projects that convert waste heat from steel mills into electricity, further reducing overall energy consumption. These initiatives position ArcelorMittal Dofasco as a key player in sustainable steel production, aligning with Canada’s broader efforts to minimize industrial carbon emissions.​

Algoma Steel

For over a century, Algoma Steel has been a key supplier for the automotive, construction, energy and defense industries. Based in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, the company is making a significant move toward sustainability by transitioning to Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF), a shift representing Canada’s largest decarbonization initiative. This transition will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reinforcing Algoma’s commitment to environmentally responsible steel production while maintaining its reputation for high-quality materials.

Aluminum Products

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Aluminerie Alouette

Based in Sept-Îles, Quebec, Aluminerie Alouette is the largest aluminum smelter in the Americas, producing over 630,000 tonnes annually. Founded in 1992, the company is independently operated and employs over 900 people, making it the region’s largest private employer. As a consortium-owned operation, it remains dedicated to innovation, operational efficiency and strong community involvement, ensuring a sustainable future for the aluminum industry.

Sustainability is at the core of Alouette’s operations, with over 80 percent of process residues recycled and a commitment to reducing environmental impact. The company relies on hydroelectric power and holds multiple certifications for responsible aluminum production.

Rio Tinto Alcan 

Rio Tinto is a global leader in low-carbon aluminum production, with hydro-powered smelters in Quebec. Committed to net-zero emissions by 2050, the company targets a 50 percent reduction in emissions by 2030 while investing in renewable energy and ecosystem restoration. Rio Tinto supplies essential materials with a reduced carbon footprint by integrating environmental stewardship into its operations.

Related Products, Parts and Structures Made of Metal

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Stelco Holdings Inc.

Stelco, based in Hamilton, Ontario, manufactures various steel structures and components. The company focuses on sustainable practices, including recycling steel and utilizing energy-efficient technologies.​

Tenaris Canada 

With operations in Sault Ste. Marie, Toronto, and Calgary, Tenaris produces steel pipes and tubes for various applications, including oil and gas. The company emphasizes sustainability by implementing energy-efficient processes and utilizing renewable energy sources.​

Richelieu Hardware

Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, Richelieu offers a wide range of metal hardware and fittings. The company is committed to sustainability, providing eco-friendly products and implementing green practices in its operations. I have personally used Richelieue as a hardware supplier for over a decade. They supply highly specialized, durable and affordable products. 

NRB Modular Solutions 

NRB Modular Solutions is one of Canada’s largest modular building providers, with over 40 years of experience in offsite construction. The company is committed to sustainability, using advanced building techniques to minimize environmental impact while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency. Their modular solutions are used across various industries, including residential, commercial and institutional projects, making them a top choice for those looking to source Canadian-made prefab structures. By choosing NRB, builders can mitigate the impact of tariffs while supporting a company dedicated to green building practices. We have separate guides to buying other Canadian-made modular homes, tiny homes and capsule homes.

Supporting Canada’s Economy Starts with Your Choices

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Trump’s trade war may be out of our control, but where we spend our money isn’t. Every purchase of a Canadian-made product keeps the economy strong, protects local jobs and ensures that we aren’t reliant on an unstable and increasingly unreliable trading partner.

High-quality Canadian alternatives, from appliances to lumber, steel to flooring, are readily available. By buying Canadian, we’re not just sidestepping tariffs – we’re investing in a more self-sufficient and resilient future.

Also check out our article on Where to Find Discount Building Supplies in Canada