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

Cast Iron OG Guttering Side Fixing Rafter Bracket - 100mm Galvanised

Cast Iron Beaded Guttering Dropend Internal 150 x 75mm Outlet Primed

Cast Iron Beaded Guttering Dropend Internal 125 x 65mm Outlet Black

Cascade Cast Iron Style Anthracite Grey 170mm x 2m Deepstyle Gutter

Visqueen DPC Polyethylene Damp Proof Course 500mu - 450mm x 30m

Marley Concrete Modern Security Ridge - Mosborough Red

Novia VC2 Air & Vapour Control Layer Kit - 75m2

Alumasc Aqualine 150mm x 120mm Modern Running Outlet 75mm - Black

Alumasc Aqualine 100mm x 85mm Modern Running Outlet 75mm x 75mm - Metallic Silver

Underground 45° Equal Junction Triple Socket 160mm

Square Gutter External Stop End Black 112mm

Intermediate Concrete Fence Post. Original 6&#039;

Manthorpe Multicor 2.44M 100-150mm Cavity Closer

Marshall 125x255mm Half Batter Kerb Ext Radius 6m

2'' X 6'' Concrete Flat Top Path Edging 36''

Simpson Strong-tie Masonry Reinforcement Galvanised Mesh 63mm

Simpson Strong-tie Heavy Engineered Restraint Strap 1500 Mm

Simpson Strong-tie Heavy Engineered Restraint Strap 1200 Mm

Simpson Heavy Engineered Strap Bend 100mm 1000mm

100mm Hedgehog Gutter Brush Black 4000mm

Hepworth Supersleve 45° Bend Plain Ended 150mm

ACO Hexdrain Sump Unit Black

Round Downpipe To Drain Connector 68mm To 110mm

Hepworth Supersleve 45° Oblique Junction Plain Ended 150x150mm

75mm X 150mm Speed Pro Masonry Joist Hanger Galvanised

305mm Speed Pro EML Brick Reinforcement Coil Galvanised 20m

Ardex A45 Rapid Drying Repair Mortar 11kg

9'' X 3'' Plastic Air Brick Black

9'' X 3'' Plastic Air Brick Terracotta

VELUX EDP MK04 0000 Single Flashing For Plain Tile 78 X 98cm

Hepworth Terracotta Plain Roll Top In Red 300mm X 285mm

Timloc Vertical Extension Sleeve 150mm Black

Timloc Eaves Protector 1.5m Black

VELUX EDP FK06 0000 Single Flashing For Plain Tile 66 X 118cm

Hepworth Terracotta Cavity Liner 215 X 65 X 200mm Red

VELUX EDP MK08 0000 Single Flashing For Plain Tile 78 X 140cm

Catnic Internal Wall Box Lintel Standard Duty 1500 X 143 X 100mm Black

LBC Selected Regrades Brick 65mm Buff

Catnic Timber Frame Lintel 1800 X 183 X 142mm Black

VELUX Pitched Roof Rigid Sun Tunnel 14 For Tiled Roofs

Intermediate Concrete Fence Post. Original 6'