Introduction

Many homeowners assume that if materials are installed locally—whether it’s pavers, stone, lighting, or structural components—the pricing must also be driven primarily by local factors. In reality, even outdoor projects in Delaware and Eastern Pennsylvania are influenced by a much larger global supply chain.
Materials used in landscaping and hardscaping projects are often manufactured, processed, or transported through complex international supply networks before reaching contractors and suppliers in the Mid-Atlantic region. Changes in shipping costs, tariffs, commodity markets, and manufacturing capacity can all influence the price of construction materials long before they arrive at a job site.
For homeowners planning outdoor living spaces like patios, retaining walls, fire features, or outdoor kitchens, understanding these supply chain realities can help explain why material costs sometimes shift—even when projects are being built close to home.

Supply Chains and Global Markets Still Influence Pricing

Even projects that rely on domestic materials can still feel the effects of global trade pressures. In 2024, homebuilders imported about $14 billion worth of construction materials, including softwood lumber, steel, aluminum, and other key materials used in building projects.
Source:https://nypost.com/2026/03/03/real-estate/democrats-bill-aims-to-slash-home-prices-by-cutting-building-materials-tariffs

Changes in tariffs, supply-chain uncertainty, cross-border manufacturing exposure, and limited component availability can all influence the cost of construction materials. Tariffs and supply uncertainty, in particular, have been cited as factors contributing to price fluctuations in products made with steel and aluminum.
Source:https://dirt.asla.org/2025/03/24/tariff-threats-cause-uncertainty-for-landscape-architecture-product-manufacturers

While these changes may not always be visible to homeowners, they can impact the price of items used in outdoor construction, including:

• Structural hardware
• Metal edging systems
• Outdoor lighting components
• Certain masonry and fabrication materials

Even high-quality hardscape products commonly used in the Mid-Atlantic—such as premium pavers, retaining wall systems, and lighting components—often rely on manufacturing supply chains that extend beyond the local region.

When shipping costs, raw material prices, or international trade conditions shift, those changes eventually work their way through the distribution chain and affect project costs.

Demand for Construction Services Remains Strong

Another key factor influencing project pricing is simple supply and demand. Across the construction industry, labor demand remains elevated even as some residential segments have cooled. At the same time, manufacturing, infrastructure, data center, and other major projects are competing for the same skilled workforce that many contractors rely on. As a result, labor shortages continue to put upward pressure on project costs and timelines.
Source:https://www.redhammer.io/blog/u-s-construction-labor-trends—february-2025

This is particularly noticeable in Sussex County, Delaware, which has been one of the fastest-growing counties in the state. Population growth and continued residential development in coastal communities have increased construction activity and demand for home-related projects.

As a result, reputable landscaping and design-build companies often experience significant scheduling demand during peak seasons, especially between April and July.

When schedules fill up quickly, project timelines can extend—and costs can increase as material and labor prices continue to evolve throughout the season.

Conclusion

Even though outdoor projects are built locally, the factors that influence pricing often extend far beyond a single region. Global supply chains, manufacturing costs, tariffs, and shipping logistics all play a role in determining the price of materials used in landscaping and hardscaping projects.

At the same time, strong demand for outdoor living spaces across Delaware and Eastern Pennsylvania continues to keep skilled contractors busy—especially during the spring and summer construction season.
For homeowners considering a patio, retaining wall, or full outdoor living space, the best strategy is often planning ahead. Starting the conversation early allows contractors to secure materials, schedule crews more effectively, and avoid the seasonal demand spikes that can occur during peak months.

By planning early and working with experienced design-build professionals, homeowners can bring their outdoor visions to life while navigating the realities of today’s construction market with confidence.

At Borsello Landscaping, the goal is simple: build outdoor spaces that are designed correctly, built beautifully, and built to last.
Starting the planning process early helps homeowners stay ahead of rising costs while ensuring their project is completed on schedule.