If you’re managing your own build, choosing a builders’ merchant is pretty important, because materials are expensive, mistakes cost money, and there’s probably no experienced contractor standing beside you to translate every product name. So, how do other self builders choose the right merchant?
Clear advice and easy ordering
A good merchant makes the buying process feel less intimidating, with plain-English product descriptions, sensible quantity guidance and staff who are happy to explain the difference between similar materials.
Check the opening hours of a merchant too, because many self-builders plan jobs in the evenings or at weekends, so knowing they’re open late or on weekends is great. It’s even better too if they have accurate online stock information and clear delivery. Helpful staff are just as important. The range of customer-facing Selco jobs listed by employers such as this company https://bmcareers.com/employer/selco-builders-warehouse/ shows how many different roles can contribute to giving customers useful advice and keeping orders moving.
Reliability matters as much as price
The cheapest quote isn’t always the best choice, because you’ll want to see what stock is actually available and whether deliveries arrive when promised as well.
A merchant that remembers the project, offers practical suggestions and helps avoid over-ordering is more likely to win repeat business, so the location is important, but decent customer service is also going to really help you.
For most self-builders, the decision comes down to confidence, because they want fair prices, but they also want to feel that someone understands the job and will help keep it moving when problems crop up.
