The question of whether something is truly Canadian-made has perhaps never been more top of mind for consumers than it is today. But for one local business, prioritizing Canadian-made has been part of its identity for nearly 25 years.
“If we have the resources and companies here, it’s beneficial to keep putting money into our Canadian economy,” says Cassandra Lethbridge, co-owner and controller at Home Siding Shop.
From day one, Home Siding Shop has focused on sourcing from Canadian suppliers who manufacture their products domestically. About 15 years ago, they even switched siding suppliers when their existing partner moved production to the United States. “It’s always been something that’s important to us,” says Cassandra.
“Growing up, my father ingrained in me to support local and give back to my community—this is just a larger-scale version of that idea,” she adds.
That commitment goes beyond values; it’s also about quality. Canadian-made materials are designed with Canada’s climate in mind, making them more durable over time. “It might cost a bit more up front, but the longevity of the product makes it a better investment in the long run,” Cassandra explains.
Cassandra points out that the current tariff situation has caused many people to look more closely at what’s truly made or produced in Canada. “I think it’s important for people to start looking at this now,” she says.
It’s a tricky landscape for small businesses to navigate—especially for those like Home Siding Shop that go out of their way to support Canadian and local suppliers. Cassandra says she’s grateful to be part of a business community in Sault Ste. Marie that values collaboration over competition. “A lot of us know each other and refer business back and forth. Community support and business-to-business support is huge here, which you don’t see in a lot of places,” she says.
That sense of community extends to the company’s charitable giving as well. Home Siding Shop focuses its donations on local events and organizations that directly benefit people in the Soo.
The next generation is carrying on Home Siding Shop’s legacy, continuing the business with the same values it was built on: supporting Canadian jobs, delivering quality, and giving back to the community they call home.
“The Soo feels like one big family,” says Cassandra. “A lot of people will give you the shirt off their back here.”
Home Siding Shop offers free estimates. For more information, visit www.homesidingshop.ca.