The FBi Blog

Start Your Spring Project Now—Before Costs Rise!

Written by Nettie Grubb | Feb 10, 2025 6:00:00 PM

Spring is often the season everyone has in mind for construction projects. But what if you don’t want to wait? At FBi Buildings, we believe that you don’t have to wait for spring to get started on your project—and, thanks to our skilled crews and unmatched scheduling power, you can lock in a spot before the season rush. With recent tariffs on building materials affecting costs, now might be the perfect time to plan ahead and save money.

In this blog, we will explain that now is the time to lock in your pole barn pricing and how the post-frame industry is responding to tariffs.

 

Why Wait for Spring?

Typically, spring sees a surge in demand for new construction. Waiting until spring presents several potential issues.

  • Delays in scheduling
  • Higher material costs

Recent United States tariff hikes on imported goods have already started impacting the prices of steel, lumber, and other essential building materials. As prices continue to rise, so will your overall project cost.

So, why wait for spring when you can get started now? FBi Buildings is committed to making your build process as smooth and cost-effective as possible—and we're ready to work with you on a schedule that fits your needs.

 

How is the Post-Frame Industry Responding?

President Donald Trump’s tariffs on imported steel and other building materials have caused prices to creep up across the industry. 

According to CNBC, while the U.S. has ramped up lumber production in recent years, 70% of the country’s sawmills and wood products are imported from Canada ($8.5 billion). These imports are already subject to a 14.5% tariff, but Trump’s new policy would raise it to over 39%.

If you are in the market for a pole barn hobby shop, barndominium, equine barn, or commercial post-frame building, ask your post-frame builder the following questions.

 

1) Does Your Pole Barn Builder Have Fixed Pricing?

Some builders will implement price surges if materials rise, even after signing your contract. However, there’s a way to secure your budget before those costs rise even further: lock in your price today. 

At FBi, we offer fixed pricing for all our projects, meaning you can avoid unexpected increases and build with confidence, knowing your costs won’t fluctuate with market changes.

 

2) How Long Is Your Quote Valid?

Most builders will provide a quote valid for 30 days. However, with the rise in material tariffs, quotes may have shorter dates. That is why it is essential to learn how to compare builders ahead of time.

If you are looking at pole barn home construction in 2025, you are likely going to experience price increases and uncertainty of interest rates. It also will trickle down to higher prices on cabinets, flooring, fixtures, and additional costs associated with finishing the interior of your project.

Whether you’re looking for a commercial building, agricultural structure, or storage facility, we’ll help you design a solution that works for you. By securing your spot and locking in your price now, you’ll protect your budget and avoid the headaches of dealing with rising costs.

 

3) What Is The Pole Building Lead Time?

One of the biggest frustrations of construction projects is the wait time—and we know how important it is to get started on the right foot.

A smaller company, such as an Amish crew, can offer lead times up to a year in advance. However, going with one of the best builders in the Midwest provides peace of mind that you are dealing with a reputable builder. You will still need to ask about their lead time, as each company will vary.

FBi Building’s experienced crews and flexible scheduling ensure you begin your project on your terms, not when everyone else is available. With FBi’s team, you’ll experience:

  • Expertise: Our crews are skilled, efficient, and ready to work with your schedule.
  • Timeliness: We keep projects on track so you can get your building when needed.
  • Peace of Mind: FBi’s commitment to quality and communication ensures you’ll always know where your project stands.

 

4) How are Post-Frame Companies Responding to the Supply Chain?

Remember the toilet paper and wood shortage in 2020? While it can be hard to know if materials may present a shortage, is your post-frame company being proactive? Many industry leaders predict price inflation at an estimated 10%. 

FBi Buildings has been proactive in purchasing additional lumber to keep prices lower. FBi constructs components such as trusses in its pole barns and has strong partnerships with material suppliers. This means it’s ahead of the game, even when material costs rise.

 

5) Why is Crew Power Important in Post-Frame Construction?

Not all pole barn companies have their carpenters; some subcontract most, if not all, their projects. FBi Buildings has over 40 crews across Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee. FBi Buildings has been in business for over 65 years, helping thousands of satisfied customers build needed structures.

Don’t Wait for Spring—Get Started Today!

Why deal with the stress of waiting for construction season when you can get ahead of the game? Contact FBi Buildings today to lock in your spot and secure your project pricing before tariffs take effect. Let us help you get your build started on your schedule and at a price that works for you.

Don’t wait until spring to start your dream project. Contact us today to schedule it and lock in a price before tariffs raise your costs.

Do you have more questions that aren’t covered in this article? If you need help designing and planning, please contact FBi Buildings at 800.552.2981 or click here to email us. If you’re ready for a price, click here to request a quote, and a member of our Customer Engagement Team will help you determine the next steps.