Planning a summer renovation? Buy supplies now to avoid rising prices, Lincoln company says

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Homeowners and contractors are expected to feel the heat this summer — and not just from the sun.

As tariffs go into effect, the price of products and materials is getting much more expensive.

Travis Kelso, owner of Freedom Construction, said he has seen increases but is trying to limit the impact on his customers.

“However, as the world turns, we are not able to control everything,” he said. “So we definitely have to meet our prices with the demand.”

He said his top priority is keeping his customers happy just before the busy summer season.

Kelso recommends that his customers buy materials ahead of time, before prices climb even higher.

“We’ve had certain customers pay for their material that they’re not actually using until July,” he said. “But we have their material on hand and ready to go, so if there is that price increase or if there was one that’s already anticipated, then we’re ahead of that game for them.”

And with a 25% tariff on items like aluminum, his suppliers keep him informed as well.

“Whether it be aluminum, decking, lumber or anything like that,” he said. “We kind of get a heads up, letting us know there will be a price increase.”