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Remodeler labor shortage impacting wages, prices

5/3/2019
The remodeling industry is also feeling the impact of a national labor shortage, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

A recent survey conducted by NAHB Remodelers found dramatic shortages for remodeling jobs. In turn, the shortage is leading to higher wages and higher prices for customers, the NAHB said.

“The labor shortage continues to be one of the top concerns for remodelers across the country,” said NAHB Remodelers Chair Tim Ellis, a remodeler from Bel Air, Md. “An ongoing challenge for remodelers is keeping their prices competitive while dealing with the increasing costs of labor.”

In the survey, remodelers reported a ‘serious shortage’ or ‘some shortage’ of labor for the following jobs:

  • 84% carpenters - finished

  • 85% carpenters - rough

  • 81% framing crews

  • 71% bricklayers/masons

  • 58% electricians


Remodelers also reported leading effects the labor shortages have on their businesses:

  • 78% higher wages/subcontractor bids

  • 72% higher prices for customers

  • 67% percent difficulty completing the projects on time

  • 53% percent turning down some projects


“Working in the remodeling industry provides job security and high wages,” said Ellis. “NAHB is attempting to change the stigma of working in the trades by increasing awareness to teens and parents, and providing them with education and the skills they need to succeed.”

 
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