The recent reinstatement of 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports has sent ripples through industries that rely on metal components, including the lighting and infrastructure sectors. With many manufacturers sourcing their materials from overseas, these tariffs are expected to lead to price increases, supply shortages, and delays in production.
For municipalities, developers, and contractors looking for cost-effective, durable alternatives, this shift presents an opportunity to rethink material choices—particularly for light pole bases, which have traditionally been made from metal. As metal costs rise, resin-based light pole bases are emerging as a reliable, tariff-proof solution that offers significant advantages over traditional steel and aluminum.
The Impact of Tariffs on the Lighting Industry
Steel and aluminum have long been staple materials in the manufacturing of light poles and their bases. However, with a 25% tariff imposed on all imported steel and aluminum, manufacturers that rely on these materials will now face higher production costs.
The consequences of these tariffs on the lighting industry include:
- Rising Costs – Manufacturers that depend on imported metal will likely pass higher material costs onto customers, driving up the price of light poles, bases, and other metal components.
- Supply Chain Disruptions – Many companies rely on overseas steel and aluminum suppliers, meaning these tariffs could lead to delays, shortages, and project setbacks.
- Increased Infrastructure Costs for Cities – Since many municipal projects require large-scale lighting installations, higher material costs may force cities to scale back or delay essential upgrades.
- Budget Constraints for Developers – Developers and contractors working on commercial projects could find that metal light pole bases now exceed their original budgets, forcing them to explore alternative materials.
With metal becoming more expensive and harder to source, the lighting industry is reevaluating its material choices—and resin is standing out as a clear alternative.
Why Resin Light Pole Bases Are the Ideal Alternative
Unlike metal, resin light pole bases are not subject to tariffs because they are manufactured right here in the USA using Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) resin. This means that while metal manufacturers struggle with price fluctuations and supply chain issues, TerraCast®’s resin bases remain a stable, cost-effective, and American-made solution.
For municipalities, government agencies, and developers, choosing American-made products is not just about avoiding tariffs—it’s also about supporting domestic manufacturing, ensuring quality control, and reducing reliance on international supply chains. With TerraCast®’s USA-based production, customers benefit from consistent pricing, reliable availability, and a product that meets high industry standards.
Resin bases also provide several advantages over their steel and aluminum counterparts:
No Risk of Rust or Corrosion
One of the biggest drawbacks of metal light pole bases is their susceptibility to rust and corrosion—especially in humid, coastal, or high-traffic urban environments. Once rust takes hold, maintenance costs increase, and replacements become necessary. Resin bases, however, are entirely resistant to corrosion, making them an excellent long-term investment for municipalities and commercial projects.
Theft-Resistant Material
Steel and aluminum are often targeted by metal thieves, who steal these materials for resale. Cities and property managers frequently deal with stolen light pole bases, leading to costly replacements and security concerns. Resin has no scrap value, making it a non-target for theft, reducing replacement costs and headaches for city planners.
Lightweight and Easy to Install
Traditional metal bases are heavy and labor-intensive to install, often requiring specialized equipment and extended project timelines. Resin bases are significantly lighter, which means:
- Lower installation costs due to reduced labor requirements.
- Faster project completion, allowing cities and developers to stay on schedule.
- Easier handling and transportation, simplifying logistics.
Aesthetic Appeal with Long-Term Durability
Resin light pole bases are designed to mimic the look of traditional materials like cast iron or aluminum but without the downsides of metal. Their UV-resistant, color-through material ensures that they retain their appearance over time, resisting fading, chipping, and weather damage.
Stable Pricing Unaffected by Global Market Fluctuations
Unlike steel and aluminum, which are subject to global market shifts, supply chain issues, and tariffs, resin is produced domestically and maintains stable pricing. This makes budgeting easier for municipalities and developers, ensuring that projects remain financially viable.
The Shift Toward Resin in the Lighting Industry
As tariffs continue to impact the availability and cost of metal, more cities, contractors, and developers are turning to resin-based solutions for their lighting infrastructure needs. The advantages of resin go beyond cost savings—it’s a more practical, efficient, and low-maintenance alternative that meets the demands of modern urban development.
This shift is part of a broader trend in urban planning, where lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant materials are replacing outdated options. Cities and businesses looking to invest in long-lasting, maintenance-free solutions should strongly consider resin light pole bases as the future of public infrastructure.
A Tariff-Proof Future with TerraCast® Resin Light Pole Bases
With metal prices rising and supply chains under strain, now is the time to explore alternatives that provide reliability, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Resin light pole bases offer a tariff-proof solution that eliminates the risks associated with steel and aluminum, ensuring stable pricing and long-term performance.
TerraCast® proudly manufactures all of its resin light pole bases in the USA, ensuring consistent quality, dependable availability, and compliance with the highest industry standards. By choosing American-made resin products, cities and developers can avoid the cost fluctuations of metal while benefiting from a material that is weather-resistant, lightweight, and theft-proof.
For municipalities, contractors, and urban planners looking for cost-effective, maintenance-free infrastructure, TerraCast® provides a trusted, American-made alternative to traditional metal bases. To learn more about how TerraCast®’s resin light pole bases can support your next project, contact us today.