Whether you’re building a cubby house or a cabin, choosing a timber supplier is an important decision. If you’re not sure where to begin, keep reading for everything you need to know.
Choosing a timber supplier can seem like an impossible task to people who aren’t in the building industry. The wrong choice could see your project grind to a standstill, or even go unfinished. The right choice however, will enable you to start projects without delay, and have peace of mind that your timber supplies will be available when you need them.
#1 – How much timber do you need?
Determining how much timber you need narrows down your options pretty quickly. If you only need a small amount – perhaps even a one-time order – you’ll find that your options for a supplier are pretty limited thanks to the current scarcity of wood. If this is the case, you may be best buying your supplies from one of the hardware chains. On the flipside, if you need a couple of truckloads every week for the foreseeable future, a specialised yard may be the way to go.
#2 – What sort of timber do you need?
With a huge variety in species and types of timber on the market, knowing what you need will also help to narrow your choices of supplier.
Hardwood – this type is known for its rich colour variations and attractive grain, making it ideal for flooring and furniture.
Softwood – this type is generally easier to work with and more affordable, making it a popular choice for DIY projects, decking, and framing.
Treated Pine – this type is chemically treated to make it resistant to insects and rot, and extend its lifespan, making it best suited for outdoor projects.
Kiln-Dried Hardwood – this type has been kiln-dried to remove excess moisture, making it perfect for internal structures as it’s less likely to warp.
Within hardwood and softwood, there are myriad species to choose from, each offering a unique colouring and grain pattern to your project. Think about what sort of species you’d like to work with and seek a supplier who specialises in that.
#3 – Can the supplier consistently meet your needs?
Delays in shipments can cause problems for your project; from idle times and loss of momentum to unfinished projects. When choosing timber suppliers, it’s important to consider the ways that their actions could impact you. Take a look at their history and reviews. Pay attention to their track record and customer service. You should also consider their geographic location – the further away they are, the greater the chance of disruption.
#4 – What is their customer service like?
As with any business, the customer service they provide is key. Is it really worth going with a timber supplier who’s a pain to deal with? The answer should be obvious – definitely not. Timber tends to play an important role in any project, big or small, which could mean a large impact on your day-to-day experience. Therefore, choosing a supplier who treats you like a partner versus one who treats you like a number can make a huge difference.
#5 – Does the supplier value sustainability?
We live in an environmentally conscious landscape where sustainability is a responsibility we all must carry. Opt for Australia based timber suppliers that are committed to sustainability, as this ensures the long-term quality of the wood you’re using plus is good for the health of the planet. Choosing locally sourced wood can also significantly reduce emissions associated with transport plus has the added benefit of supporting local businesses.
#6 – Can you afford to use the supplier?
Many people are surprised at how costly buying timber supplies can be. You have to factor in the cost of the wood itself (a commodity with price fluctuations that can move swiftly and unexpectedly due to many factors, such as fires and supply chain issues), the remanufacturing process (particularly if you’re ordering custom-cut wood), and shipping rates. See if you can get a quote, but remember even this can change on a daily basis.
Before deciding on a timber supplier for your next project, make sure you’ve answered all of these important questions. Trust us, the process will provide further insight into what you might need for the project to be a success. Whilst due diligence can feel tedious at first, it’s a necessary part of the process.
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