Best Building Material Supplier in the UK: A Complete Guide

When you're tackling a construction project—whether it’s a home renovation, new build, or commercial development—the quality and reliability of your materials can make or break the entire job. That’s why choosing the best building material supplier in the UK is not just a task on the to-do list—it’s a mission-critical decision.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what makes a great supplier, which names are dominating the UK building material market, how to choose the right one for your needs, and some tips to ensure your project runs smoother than freshly mixed plaster.

Why the Right Supplier Matters

Think of a building material supplier as the backbone of any construction project. They don’t just deliver bricks, cement, timber, and tools—they deliver trust, efficiency, and often lifesaving expertise. Here's why they matter:

  • Consistent Quality: Poor-quality materials can lead to structural issues, regulatory problems, and expensive rework.

  • On-Time Delivery: A delay in materials can halt the entire construction timeline.

  • Expert Advice: Good suppliers often employ seasoned professionals who can guide you to the right products for your job.

  • Cost Control: Reliable suppliers offer transparent pricing, bulk discounts, and budget-friendly alternatives.

So, who are the top players in the UK?

Top 10 Best Building Material Suppliers in the UK

Let’s dive into the big names (and a few specialist gems) you should know about:

1. Travis Perkins

With over 500 branches nationwide, Travis Perkins is a heavyweight in the UK construction supply industry. They offer everything from bricks and blocks to plumbing and heating supplies.

  • Why they're great:

    • Huge inventory

    • Trade accounts with discounts

    • Online ordering with branch pickup or delivery

  • Best for: Builders, contractors, and homeowners doing major renovations.

2. Jewson

Founded in 1836, Jewson is one of the oldest and most respected building material suppliers in the UK. They stock materials for all trades and have an impressive network of over 450 branches.

  • Why they're great:

    • Strong reputation

    • Excellent customer service

    • Competitive prices

  • Best for: Domestic and commercial construction projects.

3. Selco Builders Warehouse

Selco is a builder-focused supplier with a no-nonsense approach to quality and pricing. Their warehouse-style branches make it easy for tradespeople to grab materials quickly.

  • Why they're great:

    • Trade-only pricing

    • Speedy service

    • Strong stock levels

  • Best for: Tradespeople and commercial projects.

4. Wickes

Although it’s more retail-focused, Wickes still delivers serious quality for construction professionals and DIYers alike.

  • Why they're great:

    • DIY-friendly with pro-level products

    • Competitive pricing

    • Useful in-store advice

  • Best for: Small builds, renovations, and self-builders.

5. B&Q TradePoint

TradePoint is B&Q’s dedicated offering for trade professionals. Open 7 days a week, with special discounts for TradePoint cardholders, they’re incredibly convenient.

  • Why they're great:

    • Accessibility (open all week)

    • Great for small-to-medium jobs

    • Offers delivery and click-and-collect

  • Best for: Quick buys and emergency material runs.

6. Buildbase

Owned by Huws Gray, Buildbase is a builder’s merchant with strong ties to local communities. They focus on quality customer service and technical expertise.

  • Why they're great:

    • Personalised customer service

    • Knowledgeable staff

    • Good local availability

  • Best for: Medium-sized contractors and regular trade customers.

7. Howarth Timber & Building Supplies

If timber is your focus, look no further than Howarth. With over 180 years in the game, they’re timber specialists with a strong selection of general building materials too.

  • Why they're great:

    • Timber specialists

    • Wide delivery network

    • Eco-conscious practices

  • Best for: Roofing, joinery, and sustainable timber.

8. EH Smith

EH Smith is an independent, family-run supplier known for bricks, blocks, landscaping products, and sustainable solutions.

  • Why they're great:

    • Deep product knowledge

    • Specialised brick matching service

    • Strong focus on sustainability

  • Best for: Bespoke builds, heritage projects, and specialist materials.

9. C&W Berry

Based in Lancashire but delivering nationwide, C&W Berry has over 100,000 product lines and a reputation for efficient service.

  • Why they're great:

    • Enormous range of stock

    • Fast delivery

    • Competitive prices

  • Best for: Builders looking for one-stop solutions.

10. Builder Depot

London-based but with national reach, Builder Depot offers top-quality materials to professionals and homeowners alike.

  • Why they're great:

    • Premium materials at trade prices

    • Excellent online ordering

    • Great for architectural and design projects

  • Best for: Urban construction projects and premium developments.

What to Look For in a Building Material Supplier

If you’re not sure who to go with yet, here are some key things to consider before choosing a supplier:

1. Proximity and Delivery Options

A local supplier with reliable delivery options will reduce wait times and transport costs. Make sure they deliver to your site.

2. Product Range

Check if they stock everything you need—cement, bricks, timber, insulation, roofing, plumbing, etc. It’s much easier to source from one place.

3. Trade Discounts

If you’re a contractor or repeat buyer, look for suppliers with trade accounts, loyalty schemes, or bulk pricing.

4. Customer Support

You want knowledgeable staff who can offer advice, help with technical specs, and assist in choosing the right product.

5. Sustainability

Modern projects often require sustainable or recycled materials. Some suppliers lead the way in eco-friendly options—ask about it.

How to Get the Best Deal on Building Materials

Let’s face it—cost matters. Here are a few ways to keep your budget in check while still using top-quality materials:

  • Open a trade account: Many suppliers offer trade discounts or loyalty benefits.

  • Buy in bulk: It’s almost always cheaper to buy more in one go.

  • Use price match guarantees: Ask if your supplier matches competitor pricing.

  • Order early: Avoid express delivery costs and material shortages.

  • Get quotes from multiple suppliers: Don’t be afraid to shop around.

Online Building Material Suppliers Worth Checking

The UK's construction industry is becoming increasingly digital. These online platforms are gaining serious traction:

🧱 Materials Market

Compare building material prices from multiple suppliers and get materials delivered directly to your site.

🧰 Buildiro

This app and web-based platform helps contractors find materials locally and get them delivered fast.

📦 Builders Merchant Company (BMC)

One of the UK’s fastest-growing online building suppliers—stocking everything from screws to steel lintels.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Even the best supplier won’t help if you make these common mistakes:

  • Ordering too late: Always anticipate lead times, especially for custom products like roof trusses or bricks.

  • Underestimating material needs: It’s better to over-order slightly than risk running short halfway through the job.

  • Ignoring product specs: Not all plasterboard, timber, or blocks are made equal. Always check specifications.

  • Not checking reviews: Online ratings and testimonials can give real insight into supplier performance.

Choosing the best building material supplier in the UK is about more than just finding who has bricks in stock. It's about building relationships with businesses that understand the unique pressures of the construction world—deadlines, budget constraints, last-minute changes, and the need for quality that lasts.

Whether you go with a nationwide giant like Travis Perkins or a specialist timber merchant like Howarth, the key is to partner with a supplier that aligns with your values, goals, and the specific demands of your project.

  • Many offer next-day delivery, and some even deliver same-day if you order early.

Whether you're building a home extension or managing a multi-million-pound commercial development, your choice of supplier is critical. The best building material supplier in the UK will offer more than just products—they'll bring reliability, expertise, and peace of mind to your project.

So go ahead, make some calls, open a trade account, or pop into your local branch. Your project deserves nothing less than the best.


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