It’s a choice you have to make when taking on a new project. Do you buy your wood from a trusted timber merchant or a nearby DIY store? Both have pros and cons to both, but the right decision takes account of many factors…
Whether you’re getting started on a large-scale job for a customer or taking on a small DIY idea in your home, knowing the differences between timber merchants and DIY stores can be a game-changer.
There are clear benefits to purchasing wood from a specialised timber merchant like E.O. Burton. However, we are here to compare this choice with DIY stores to help you make the best decision for your project.
Why Properly Sourcing Your Wood Matters
There are some obvious differences between a timber merchant and a DIY store, but first, let’s understand why you should even care about where you’re sourcing your wood.
Whatever you’re looking for, softwood or hardwood, timber is a natural material that varies in quality, durability, appearance and application. Getting the wrong wood for the job can be the difference between a happy customer and a waste of your money. Wood type and quality can affect everything from aesthetics to structural integrity, so choosing the best wood is essential.
Whether you need hardwood for flooring and furniture or softwood for framing and fencing, getting the correct timber is a critical part of your project. Where can you find the best timber for your needs? Merchant or shop, you need to know exactly what you’re getting.
Timber Merchants: Expertise, Quality & Customisation
As trusted timber merchants ourselves at E.O. Burton, we might be a bit biassed towards this choice, but we acknowledge that there is a place for DIY stores. However, there are some considerable advantages to using a timber merchant to source your hardwood or softwood, and they are…
Unmatched Timber Expertise:
One of the most obvious reasons to choose a timber merchant is that you also get a wealth of expertise.
As timber merchants specialise in wood, our team will be able to advise you on the different types of wood grain, hardwood and softwood options most suitable for your project and the specific properties of different wood species.
For example, a timber merchant can guide you with specialist knowledge if you’re unsure whether to use softwood or hardwood for your job. We can help you make the best choice before you purchase so you know you’re getting exactly what you need.
Custom Cutting and Sizing:
If your project requires precise measurements, a merchant can cut exactly to your requirements. Having timber delivered precisely sized will reduce waste and save time on site.
Superior Quality Wood:
It’s no surprise that timber merchants are dedicated to sourcing high-quality wood. They ensure their stock is free of defects like warping, splitting and excessive knots, so you don’t end up with half an order full of wood that is borderline unusable.
This level of quality control means your project will be stronger and more reliable, and the job will go more smoothly overall!
Wider Range of Timber Options:
Merchants offer a huge range of wood grades, sizes and species. Far more than you can typically find in a DIY store.
There are times when you need more than off-the-shelf softwood, and instead need a specialist type of wood. For example, maybe you need exotic hardwood for a bespoke furniture piece. Or you might need a reliable supplier for a large quantity of quality softwood for a building job.
It’s even possible to save money by choosing the correct type of wood, giving you the same attributes for a lower price tag. Whatever your specifications, you can be sure a merchant like E.O. Burton can help you get what you need.
DIY Stores: Convenience On Your Doorstep
We’re not anti-DIY stores. They have their good points and can be the perfect choice in the right situation.
You Need Convenient & Quick Supply
One of the main reasons people visit their local DIY shop is that it’s usually just down the road, and they can probably find something close to what they’re looking for. These stores are usually easily accessible and are ideal if you can get everything you need in one trip in the back of your vehicle.
You Only Have A Small Project
DIY stores can give you cheaper prices on basic timber and building supplies if you’re buying in small amounts. For example, you may only need a couple of lengths of wood. If you’re working on something that doesn’t require quality, durable timber, like temporary fencing or quick shelving, then the standard stock from a DIY shop can be appealing.
It’s important to remember, though, that the timber quality at these stores is lower-grade. So, for larger or more important projects, the initial savings may not be worth the potential issues you get from inferior materials.
When To Choose A Timber Merchant Over A DIY Store
DIY stores are convenient; we all know that. But there are times when a timber merchant just makes more sense, whether you’re a professional or a DIYer.
You Have A Big Or Specialist Project
If you have a large-scale project, like building decking, creating custom furniture, or working on big home renovations, a timber merchant can best help you with wood that’s going to be better quality and better suited.
They can provide specialist advice on what wood type to choose for your specific needs and budget and offer a wide range to choose from. They also offer custom cutting, so you’ll get the perfect materials in exactly the right size.
You Want Durability And Quality
If you need wood that’s going to keep looking good (and will stay strong!) over the years, then a merchant can help you pick out high-quality timber that lasts.
DIY stores are unlikely to have access to the same quality or quantity of wood as a professional merchant, so getting superior hardwood or softwood options ensures that your project will last.
You Want Some Reliable Advice
While the staff in your local DIY shop may have some training in helping you choose from their smaller wood selection, they’re unlikely to have the same level of timber expertise as a timber merchant.
Whether you need help determining the right thickness for your application (which woods to use for framing, for example) or the most durable type of finish (for a custom kitchen countertop, perhaps), a merchant’s staff can put you on the right path.
Quality Timber Or Convenient Access?
Both timber merchants and DIY stores have their strengths, but knowing those strengths means you can make the right choice at the right time, depending on your project.
Quick DIY Fix? If you have a small, quick DIY job at home and timber quality isn't a top priority, your nearest DIY store might be the most convenient option. But remember, you're always welcome to explore the wider selection and expertise a timber merchant can offer!
Quality & Expertise Required?
If you’re looking for expert guidance, higher-quality materials and a wider range of both hardwood and softwood options, a merchant like E.O. Burton is the smartest choice. For the best result for your project, get in touch with our helpful team today, and we can answer all your timber questions…