As a homeowner, it can be really exciting (and daunting) to take on a self-build project. That said, as long as you are organised and invest in the right materials, completing your self-build project doesn’t have to be as complicated as you might first assume.  

One of the biggest challenges self-builders face is managing material procurement—getting the right supplies onto site at precisely the right moment. Knowing how and when to order your building materials will keep your project on schedule, protect your budget, and prevent costly site delays. 

Key Summary 

  • Phase Your Orders - Align material deliveries with key build stages to keep the site organised and protect stock from weather damage. 
  • Choose One Reliable Supplier - Partnering with an established merchant like Harlow Bros ensures consistent quality across building timber, sheet materials, and roofing materials. 
  • Account for Lead Times - Order engineered joists, custom trusses, and specialist cladding early to avoid schedule delays. 
  • Prepare for Delivery - Verify site access, offloading space, and dry storage before scheduling your timber delivery. 
  • Use Trade Accounts - Open a trade account for consolidated billing, better pricing, and technical support. 

Stage Your Deliveries to Match Your Timeline 

When you first get started, it can be tempting to simply order everything you’ll need for the project from start to finish, but this is usually not a good idea. This can leave your building space full of materials and cluttered, so that moving around to get the job done becomes trickier.  

Instead, map your orders to key construction milestones—from groundworks and the structural frame through to roofing, insulation, and final joinery. Delivering materials phase-by-phase keeps your site safe and organised, ensuring carpenters, roofers, and plasterers have exactly what they need, right when they need it. 

Budgeting & Preventing Material Waste 

One thing you want to ensure is that you estimate your building materials as accurately as you can. Although it is wise to factor in a 5% to 10% wastage allowance when ordering materials, the last thing you want is an abundance of materials left over when your project is complete. Not only does this leave you with materials to dispose of, but it means that you have spent more of your budget on materials than you needed to.  On the flip side, ordering slightly under-quantity often leads to emergency re-orders and extra delivery charges, which can equally strain your budget. 

Phasing your orders through a reliable merchant ensures you secure bulk trade rates without overflowing your plot or wasting stock. 

Partner with a Specialist Timber & Materials Merchant 

Choosing the right merchant is one of the most critical decisions in your self-build journey. Rather than relying on generic retail DIY stores, partnering with a dedicated timber and materials merchant like Harlow Bros ensures access to higher-grade, sustainably sourced timber and expert technical advice. Having a single, dependable supply partner simplifies order tracking, consolidates your invoicing, and gives you direct access to specialists who understand structural specifications. 

Your Materials Shopping List 

Every successful self-build relies on a core checklist of essential supplies. You will need C16 or C24 structural building timber and CLS studwork for framing, alongside versatile sheet materials like OSB3 and structural plywood for subfloors and wall sheathing. To complete the building envelope, invest in high-performance insulation boards to meet Part L thermal standards, as well as treated battens, membranes, and quality roofing materials to make your structure completely watertight. 

Mastering your material orders is key to a stress-free self-build. Phasing your orders, selecting high-quality products, and preparing your site before deliveries arrive will prevent costly downtime and keep your build on track. 

Whether you need structural timber or essential finishes, Harlow Bros is here to support your project every step of the way. Get in touch with our team today to request a quote or set up your supply schedule. 

How to Order Building Materials – FAQs 

How far in advance should I order structural timber and roofing materials? 

Place orders for standard building timber and roofing materials 2 to 3 weeks ahead. For engineered timber, such as roof trusses or I-joists, allow 6 to 10 weeks for design, manufacturing, and delivery. 

Should I choose C16 or C24 grade building timber? 

C16 is ideal for lighter internal framing and studwork. C24 is denser with higher load capacity, making it necessary for floor joists, roof rafters, and long structural spans. Check your structural engineer's drawings for exact specifications. 

What are the best sheet materials for floors and walls? 

Answer: Use OSB3 or structural plywood for external wall sheathing and roof decking. For subflooring, choose tongue-and-groove OSB3 or P5 moisture-resistant chipboard. Use moisture-resistant MDF for interior finishings. 

Q4: How should building timber and materials be stored on-site? 

Answer: Raise timber off wet ground using bearers, stack it flat, and cover it with a ventilated waterproof tarp. Store insulation, internal doors, and joinery inside a dry, weatherproof area until installation. 

Can self-builders open a trade account with Harlow Bros? 

Yes. Self-builders can open a trade account to access competitive pricing, dedicated account management, and simplified invoicing throughout their project.