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

Cascade Cast Iron Style 110mm 92.5dg Single Socket Access Bend (White)

Cascade Cast Iron Style 110mm 92.5dg Single Socket Access Bend (Green)

Cascade Cast Iron Style 110mm 92.5dg Single Socket Access Bend (Grey)

Cascade Cast Iron Style 110mm 92.5dg Single Socket Access Bend (Blue)

Cascade Cast Iron Style 110mm 92.5dg Single Socket Access Bend (Sand)

Cast Iron Style Soil Pipe 92.5dg Access Bend 110mm - Anthracite Grey

Brett Martin Road Gully Square Hopper Riser - 110mm

Novia Reflex Reflective Roof & Wall Breathable Membrane - 50m x 1.5m

Powerlon UltraPerm Premium Breather Membrane Roof Felt - 1m x 50m Roll

Powerlon UV 160 SA Breathable Facade Membrane - 1.5m x 50m

Klober Permo Air Permeable Breather Membrane - 50m x 1.5m Roll

Powerlon SupaPerm 100 House Wrap Breather Membrane - 2.7m x 100m

Powerlon UltraPerm Max Breather Membrane Roof Felt - 1.5m x 50m Roll

Cromar VENT3® Air Permable Breathable Membrane - 1m x 50m

Powerlon UltraPerm Premium Breather Membrane Roof Felt - 1.5m x 50m

Breather Membrane Felt Underlay Cromar Vent 3 - 50m x 1.5m Roll

Brett Martin Guttering Leaf Protection Guard System

Powerlon UltraPerm Standard Breather Membrane Roof Felt - 1m x 50m

Powerlon UltraPerm Standard Breather Membrane Roof Felt - 1m x 25m

Brett Martin Cellular Storm Water Crate 55 Tonne - 1200mm x 600mm x 347mm

Powerlon UltraPerm Standard Breather Membrane Roof Felt - 1.5m x 50m

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End LH 106mm - White

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End RH 106mm - White

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End LH 106mm - Black

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End RH 106mm - Black

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End LH 106mm - Brown

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End RH 106mm - Brown

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End LH - Arctic White

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End RH - Arctic White

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End Anthracite Grey - LH

Brett Martin Plastic Guttering Ogee Prostyle External Stop End Anthracite Grey - RH

Cascade Cast Iron Style 106mm Prostyle Stopend Outlet L/H - Black

Cascade Cast Iron Style 106mm Prostyle Stopend Outlet R/H - Black

Cascade Cast Iron Style 106mm Prostyle Stopend Outlet L/H - White

Cascade Cast Iron Style 106mm Prostyle Stopend Outlet R/H - White

Cascade Cast Iron Style 106mm Prostyle Stopend Outlet L/H - Green

Cascade Cast Iron Style 106mm Prostyle Stopend Outlet R/H - Green

Cascade Cast Iron Style 106mm Prostyle Stopend Outlet L/H - Grey

Cascade Cast Iron Style 106mm Prostyle Stopend Outlet R/H - Grey

Cascade Cast Iron Style 106mm Prostyle Stopend Outlet L/H - Blue