Sourcing and supply: Key materials driving the builders merchant sector forward

No matter how the world transforms and develops, there will always be a need for builders. Providing supplies to builders ensures that houses keep being built, schools keep being installed where they are needed, and hospitals are created with patients in mind. 

Builders’ merchants are incredibly important to the UK economy as well as the construction industry specifically. This part of business relies heavily on timely and efficient material supply. However, as with all industries, the construction material supply arena is evolving with technological advancements in material composition. Though necessary, this isn’t always smooth sailing. 

Essential materials in high demand

Construction often follows the ebbs and flows of trends the same as other industries. At present, materials such as timber, steel, cement and aggregates remain strong favourites for building projects meaning they are in high demand. 

This could be, in part, due to the housing development targets set out by the government which are likely to need these materials as standard. 

Sustainable sourcing and environmental considerations

Recent years have seen a significant shift towards sustainable building and eco-friendly features. Again, governmental green initiatives may be a driving force behind these changes since the pledge to have net zero carbon emissions by 2050. 

In response, builders merchants are incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices in their offerings. This includes efforts to source certified timber as well as promoting low-carbon products. With these being more attractive, investment can be made into further innovations. 

Innovations in materials handling and distribution

Efficiency is key across the construction industry and the logistics and material handling processes are not immune to advancement. Getting supplies to the build sites should be a priority and may require some creative problem-solving if there are delays or supply issues. 

For big orders, bulk packaging solutions help to streamline transportation operations as well as reduce packaging waste. This is ideal for products such as bulk gravel bags as it helps to keep costs, waste and emissions as low as possible. 

Future outlook: Materials to watch out for

There is no escaping that technology will continue to shape the future of building materials. Mycelium bricks are a great example of this. This material is made up of a hardened fungal organism which is water and fire-resistant. Whilst mycelium is currently being used for packaging, it is looking hopeful that it can be developed into building bricks which are biodegradable and sustainable. 

Photovoltaic glass is another area which is showing great promise. This glass can be used as a legitimate construction material whilst generating solar power from the sun. One of the great things about photovoltaic glass is that it provides the same level of thermal and sound insulation as conventional glass, just with the added renewable energy bonus! Although it is more expensive, the free energy output means it could pay for itself relatively quickly.