Question 1

What materials are commonly used in sustainable building projects?

Accepted Answer

Sustainable building projects need sustainable construction materials. In the UK this might be recycled products, such as reclaimed bricks or timber, or even aggregates made of recycled materials. Eco-friendly builds also make use of natural insulation like sheep wool or hemp. Lime-based mortar suits breathable walls in older or low-impact buildings. Builders may also specify low-carbon concretes with GGBS or fly ash to reduce cement content and emissions.

Question 2

Can builders reclaim VAT on building supplies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you're a VAT-registered builder, you can usually reclaim VAT on materials used for client jobs. This covers items like bricks, timber, plasterboard, and pipework. You must use the construction materials for taxable business work—not personal use or exempt projects. Building materials must be bought from VAT-registered suppliers with valid VAT invoices.

You can’t claim for tools, plant hire, or most appliances. Fixtures and fittings may not qualify either. Always check whether the item counts as a “building material” under HMRC rules. For full details, read VAT Notice 708 (Buildings and Construction) and VAT Notice 700 (The VAT Guide) on GOV.UK.

Please note: the answer above is for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial or tax advice. For guidance specific to your circumstances, please consult a qualified accountant or tax professional.

Question 3

What factors influence the price of building materials in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Fluctuations in building material prices across the UK are driven by several key factors. The fundamental costs of raw materials, manufacturing processes and transportation significantly impact prices. Supply and demand within the construction sector, currency exchange rates affecting imports, and government regulations also play crucial roles. Furthermore, market competition among building materials suppliers, broader global economic conditions, the specific properties of materials, and even seasonal demand can contribute to price variations in the UK market. Understanding these elements is essential for navigating the cost of building materials.

Compare building materials online

Forterra Fenlite Solid Lightweight Concrete Block 7.3N 100mm

Redbank Clay Airbrick Square Hole Buff 215 x 65mm

Timloc Plastic Airbrick 215 X 60 X 69mm (9x3) Terracotta Red

Forterra 65mm Village Harvest Multi Brick

Birtley LA Single Leaf External Wall Lintel 2700mm

9' Slotted Concrete Intermediate Post 109mm X 94mm X 2745mm

14'' Once Weathered Concrete Coping 24''

Ibstock Bristol Red Brick 65mm

14'' Twice Weathered Concrete Coping 24''

Ibstock Sandalwood Brick 65mm Buff

Ibstock Mercia Orange Multi 65mm Brick

ACO Raindrain Sump Unit Polymer Concrete

ACO Hexdrain Closing End Cap 125mm Black

Wrekin MHC 600x450x40 B125 D/I Single Seal S/top

Ibstock Oatmeal Textured Brick 65mm Yellow

Birtley CB90 Standard Duty Cavity Wall Lintel 900mm

Concrete Lintel 100 x 215 x 1800mm

Concrete Lintel 100 x 215 x 2100mm

Velux Centre Pivot Roof Window White Painted 66 X 118cm GGL FK06 2070

Velux Centre Pivot Roof Window White Painted 78 X 140cm GGL MK08 2070

Ibstock 65mm Calderstone Claret Brick

Thermalite 100mm Coursing Brick

Birtley LA Single Leaf External Wall Lintel 2100mm

Birtley LA Single Leaf External Wall Lintel 1800mm

Birtley LA Single Leaf External Wall Lintel 1500mm

Keystone Lintel S/K-90 1800mm

Ibstock 65mm Throckley Mixed Buff Rustic Brick

Ibstock 73mm Throckley Callerton Weathered Red Brick

Keystone Lintel S/K-90 1500mm

Birtley CB90 Standard Duty Cavity Wall Lintel 2700mm

Keystone Lintel S/K-90 1200mm

Keystone Lintel SB/K 1200mm

Ibstock 65mm Cattybrook Westbrick Red Purple Multi Brick

Isoflex Liquid Rubber Black 750ml

Patination Oil 1L

Plastic Air Brick Black 229 x 76mm (9x3)

Everbuild All Weather Roof Coating 5L

Ibstock Chailey Rustic Brick 65mm Red

Ibstock Tyne Bark Brick 65mm Red

Catnic Cougar CG90/100 Cavity Wall Lintel 1200mm