In 2025, construction professionals—from Purchasing Managers to Project Superintendents—are navigating a volatile market shaped by high material costs, labor shortages, and increasingly complex regulatory demands. One of the smartest strategic shifts many teams are making is prioritizing American-made plastic sheeting.
Whether it’s for surface protection, vapor barriers, or temporary containment, choosing U.S.-manufactured sheeting helps offset the rising cost of imported materials while adding key benefits in quality, compliance, and logistics.
The Tariff Squeeze on Construction Materials
With new and reinstated tariffs on key building materials, the cost of imported products has surged:
- A 25% tariff on steel and aluminum—and even higher for Canadian imports—has driven up the price of key structural and auxiliary materials.
- Lumber tariffs are also back in the spotlight, increasing the cost of both raw materials and certain finished goods.
(PBS NewsHour, WhiteHouse.gov)
These tariffs trickle down to project costs and timelines, especially when companies rely on overseas materials subject to volatile global trade conditions. Construction companies that have traditionally sourced plastic sheeting and visqueen from overseas suppliers are now experiencing extended lead times and shipping delays, prompting a shift toward domestic alternatives that can deliver faster and more reliably.
Why American-Made Plastic Sheeting Makes Sense Right Now
✅ BABA Compliance
The Build America, Buy America Act (BABA), part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, now requires that federally funded infrastructure projects use domestically sourced construction materials—including plastic sheeting used as vapor barriers, erosion control, or protective wrap.
Choosing U.S.-made sheeting helps keep projects eligible for funding, avoids red tape, and demonstrates a clear commitment to federal compliance.
(Congressional Research Service)
✅ Reliable Quality and Consistent Inspections
U.S. manufacturers operate under stricter quality standards and regular in-facility inspections, ensuring consistency in:
- Thickness and durability
- Tensile strength
- Fire retardancy and UV resistance
- Certifications (e.g., ASTM, Class A, NFPA 701)
For mission-critical jobs like abatement, temporary containment, and under-slab barriers, knowing your material meets spec on arrival eliminates costly delays or rework.
✅ Shorter Lead Times and Stable Supply Chains
Supply chain slowdowns are still impacting international shipments. By sourcing sheeting from a U.S. vendor, you’re reducing risk and wait times. Many domestic suppliers stock product and can ship within days—not weeks.
✅ Economic and Environmental Responsibility
- Buying American supports domestic jobs and strengthens the manufacturing sector.
- It also reduces the carbon emissions associated with transoceanic freight, aligning with many contractors’ sustainability goals.
But What About the Cost?
It’s true that American-made plastic sheeting may come at a higher upfront cost—but let’s look at the big picture:
- No surprise fees from tariffs or customs
- Lower freight costs
- Less downtime due to defective or delayed product
- Easier documentation for compliance and inspections
That all adds up to a better total cost of ownership—and a smoother build.
Why Americover Is the Trusted Choice for American-Made Plastic Sheeting
At Americover, we’ve been supplying high-quality plastic sheeting products since 1993, proudly supporting U.S. manufacturing and construction professionals for over 30 years. We offer one of the widest selections of American-made plastic sheeting in the country, thanks to long-standing partnerships with reputable domestic manufacturers who share our commitment to quality, consistency, and innovation.
Our products are trusted across industries—from construction and abatement to agriculture, aerospace, and beyond. Whether you’re wrapping equipment, installing a vapor barrier, or managing a high-risk containment zone, the success of your project depends on materials that perform. That’s why most of our plastic sheeting is tested to meet rigorous quality standards and used in long-term infrastructure projects where failure is not an option.
While tariffs are one reason to consider sourcing domestically, the real value of buying American-made lies in the peace of mind that comes with reliable supply, proven durability, and consistent quality. In a world of unpredictable shipping delays and rising costs, investing in American-made plastic sheeting isn’t just a patriotic choice—it’s a smart one.
Ready to make the switch to American-made plastic sheeting? Contact Americover today to speak with our expert team and explore the best material solutions for your next project. Call us at 760-388-6294.