Remodeling Labor Shortage in U.S. Continues to Impact Industry

According to new research by the National Association of Home Builders Remodelers, the labor shortage for the U.S. remodeling industry continues to impact the industry.

NAHB released the survey results, which highlights availability of labor and subcontractors, to kick off National Home Remodeling Month in May 2019.

"The labor shortage continues to be one of the top concerns for remodelers across the country," said NAHB Remodelers Chair Tim Ellis, CAPS, CGP, CGR, GMR, Master CGP, 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 percent carpenters - finished
• 85 percent carpenters - rough
• 81 percent framing crews
• 71 percent bricklayers/masons
• 58 percent electricians

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

• 78 percent higher wages/subcontractor bids
• 72 percent 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."