How will Tariffs affect DMD?
A lot of our clients are reaching out to us about how any incoming tariffs would affect Dissimilar. The short answer? We’re well positioned.
DMD Editor | Dissimilar Metal Design
Updated June 21, 2025
Dissimilar Metal Design sources copper, brass, bronze, stainless, and steel from U.S. suppliers. That means we can certify compliance with Build America Buy America (BABA) requirements.
BABA requires that iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in federally funded infrastructure projects be made in the United States.
For us, that’s not a pivot: it’s standard practice.
We have been building our supply chain for years to selectively include only the highest quality domestic suppliers. This has made us resilient.
And while our domestic supply chain doesn’t make us completely immune to the ripple effects of global tariffs, it does insulate us. “Made in America” means traceability, faster lead times, no customs delays, and compliance without compromise. Our materials don’t sit at a port, they go on your building.
Have questions about BABA and Tariffs? Read the FAQ.
BABA compliance goes beyond just avoiding tariffs: it requires that the material origin and production meet federal standards.
While other fabricators may be racing to source or re-certify their materials, DMD has established longstanding relationships with U.S. mills and manufacturers.
That gives our clients peace of mind.
No scrambling for paperwork. No last-minute substitutions. Just high-performance architectural metal systems with stabilized patinas. Made in the USA, built to last.
Working on a project with BABA compliance requirements?
Have a spec you’re trying to meet?
Need mill certs or documentation for your submittal?
We’re ready when you are.
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BABA & Tariff FAQs
Do tariffs apply to fabricated metal products or just raw materials?
It depends on the specific tariff, but both raw materials and finished components can be affected. BABA compliance goes beyond just avoiding tariffs. BABA requires that the material origin and production meet federal standards.
What is BABA compliance in metal fabrication?
BABA compliance means meeting the requirements of the Build America, Buy America Act, which mandates that materials like iron, steel, and other construction products be sourced and produced in the United States for federally funded projects.
Does Dissimilar Metal Design comply with the Build America, Buy America Act?
Yes. We exclusively source our metals from U.S. suppliers, making our work fully compliant with BABA requirements from day one.
Is BABA the same as Buy American?
Not quite. BABA applies specifically to infrastructure projects funded by federal dollars and has broader material requirements. The Buy American Act (BAA) is older and more limited in scope. Dissimilar can help you navigate both.
What metals are covered under BABA?
The Act covers iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials. This includes copper, brass, stainless steel, and other architectural metals commonly used in our projects.
How could tariffs affect architectural metal fabrication?
Tariffs on imported metals can raise costs, tighten supply chains, or slow delivery times for firms relying on foreign suppliers. That’s why we’ve built our business around U.S.-sourced materials. Our domestic supply line keeps us more stable and predictable, even when global markets shift.
Are Dissimilar’s metals affected by steel and aluminum tariffs?
We source our materials from U.S. suppliers, so we aren’t directly affected by tariffs on foreign steel or aluminum. But global tariffs can still cause indirect pressure. For example,
domestic demand can spike; or prices can rise industry‑wide due to tariffs.
We maintain strong relationships with our suppliers to stay ahead of that curve.
Why is sourcing American-made metals important?
Beyond meeting federal compliance, U.S.-sourced metals support domestic manufacturing, reduce shipping lead times, and often come with more transparent traceability and quality standards.