Gardeners tend to be the type of people who like to create and have projects around the yard going on. I thought the following article would be interesting for those of us who build out of wood from time to time.
Wood is one of the most popular building materials in the world; its versatile properties mean it can be used for building furniture, housing structures and more. There seems to be hundreds of different types of wood you can buy but the real question is where can you easily find them?
We have put together our top 5 places to source wood for your project so that you don’t have to waste any more time searching. Whether you need oak for a new wooden floor or pine for a new wooden door, we’ve got you covered.
1. Community Wood Recycling
The Community Wood Recycling Project was set up by some savvy entrepreneurs who aimed to develop a network of wood recycling social enterprises. The aim of these enterprises is to cut down on the wastage of wood and create sustainable jobs.
You can buy reclaimed wood from any of their social enterprises; they have various sites around the country and to find the nearest one to you, all you have to do is go on to their website and type in your postcode.
Materials may vary from site to site but most enterprises stock a variety of wood materials including, softwood lengths, floorboards, sheet materials, hardwoods, doors, window frames, decking etc.
The best part about the project is that whilst you can buy wood from them at a reasonable cost you can also recycle any left-over wood after your project is completed.
2. eBay
This buying and selling site is perhaps better known for people selling personal items to get a little extra cash but in the last decade eBay has grown to be much more than that.
You can buy all kinds of wood on eBay, especially oak, which you may find tends to be on the pricier side of things in other outlets. Don’t underestimate eBay as a platform for sourcing wood just because it seems like an unlikely candidate.
Top tip: If you’re commonly in need of wood for multiple projects, consider bulk buying when you see a deal and keep it for your own personal stock.
3. B&Q/Wickes/Homebase
If you’re new to the game and are indulging in a little DIY then this is perhaps your first port of call when sourcing wood. The benefits of going to a hardware store like any of the above are that you can pick up the wood right then and there and even if you can’t, you will more than likely be able to order it in.
These kinds of shops have multiple products in multiple categories meaning you can find the exact type of wood you need for your project rather than settling for something that’ll ‘just do’.
Unlike some of the other options they also offer a returns policy, the option of click and collect and ordering online. Your buying options aren’t limited so you can go into the store and see for yourself what you’re purchasing or return a product in person if you’re not completely happy.
4. Gumtree
Like the eBay platform Gumtree is also a good place to source wood if you’re not looking for new materials. You can find anything on there from reclaimed wood boards to treated timber decking. You can use various wood panels to create interior cladding with some amazing design.
The good thing about Gumtree is that you can set your location and go and pick up the product from somewhere close to you. Occasionally, you may be able to acquire the wood for free as long as you’re willing to go and collect it.
The downside to Gumtree is that sometimes it can take a while to sift through the listings to find exactly what you’re looking for.
5. British Hardwoods: The Oak Specialists
At number 5, British Hardwoods rounds off our list. They are an oak specialist and pride themselves in having hardwood products of the best quality. What’s more is that they are committed to providing you with sustainable products. All the raw timber they use is sourced only from FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) certified suppliers.
They have been recognised for their great customer service and great products. If you’re looking for a risk-free investment then it’s worthwhile checking in with British Hardwoods when sourcing wood for your project.
There are many places you could go to purchase wood but the best place depends on the purpose of your project. Looking for a quick turnaround and easy service? Try an online supplier. Looking for a large order? Try an in-store option. Whatever you might be looking for, trust you can find it here with one of these suppliers.