Coversmerchants.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Coversmerchants.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and comprehensive online retailer for timber and building materials in the UK. The site showcases a vast product catalogue and provides clear information regarding its services and contact points.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Overall Legitimacy: Highly Legitimate
• Product Range: Extensive (over 30,000 product lines)
• Customer Service: Clear contact options (phone, quote request)
• Delivery: Free delivery for orders over £300, Click & Collect available
• Transparency: Displays VAT information, Trustpilot reviews, and depot finder
• Ethical Standing (from an Islamic perspective): Appears to be fully permissible as it deals with construction materials and tools, which are generally considered beneficial and do not fall into forbidden categories.

Coversmerchants.co.uk presents itself as a long-standing business with over 175 years of experience in supplying timber and building materials across the South of England. The website is well-structured, making it easy to navigate through various categories like Timber, Building Materials, Landscaping & Garden, Doors, Windows & Flooring, Painting & Decorating, Fixings, Adhesives & Sealants, and Tools & Equipment. The inclusion of product codes, prices (both inc and ex VAT), and clear “View Product” links for featured items enhances the user experience and indicates a professional setup. Their emphasis on a wide selection, competitive prices, and “unrivalled customer service” backed by experienced staff and an extensive fleet of vehicles suggests a strong operational foundation. Furthermore, the presence of direct links to Trustpilot reviews, a depot finder, and explicit contact numbers (including a freephone option) adds significant credibility and trustworthiness to the platform. The business model, focusing on essential construction and home improvement goods, is entirely permissible and beneficial from an Islamic standpoint.

Here are some excellent alternatives for acquiring building and home improvement materials in the UK:

• B&Q

  

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  • Key Features: One of the largest home improvement and garden retailers in the UK. Offers a vast range of products from timber and building materials to tools, paint, and garden supplies. Provides both online shopping and physical stores for collection or browsing.
  • Average Price: Mid-range, with frequent promotions and competitive pricing.
  • Pros: Wide availability, extensive product range, often has stock readily available, reliable delivery and click & collect options.
  • Cons: Can be overwhelming due to size, some products may be geared towards DIY rather than trade-level bulk.

• Travis Perkins

  • Key Features: A leading partner to the construction industry, offering a comprehensive range of building materials and products for trade professionals and serious DIYers. Known for their focus on quality and reliability.
  • Average Price: Mid to high-range, reflecting trade-grade quality.
  • Pros: Geared towards professionals, high-quality materials, strong reputation in the trade, good customer support for technical queries.
  • Cons: Less consumer-friendly for small purchases, prices might be higher for individuals.

• Screwfix

  • Key Features: Specialises in trade tools, accessories, and hardware products. Known for its quick service, extensive stock, and convenient click & collect options, often available within minutes.
  • Average Price: Competitive for tools and fixings.
  • Pros: Excellent for quick acquisition of tools and smaller building components, widely distributed depots, good loyalty programmes.
  • Cons: Less focus on large timber and raw building materials compared to a full builders’ merchant.

• Wickes

  • Key Features: A popular choice for both DIY enthusiasts and trade professionals, offering a good balance of products for various home improvement projects, including kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Average Price: Mid-range.
  • Pros: User-friendly website, strong promotional offers, reliable delivery and click & collect, diverse product categories.
  • Cons: Stock levels can vary by store, some specific trade items might be less readily available.

• Toolstation

  • Key Features: A strong competitor to Screwfix, offering a broad range of tools, electrical, plumbing, and building supplies. Known for competitive pricing and quick service from its depots.
  • Average Price: Highly competitive.
  • Pros: Excellent value for money, fast service, good selection of essential trade items, widespread depot network.
  • Cons: Similar to Screwfix, less emphasis on bulky raw building materials like large timber sections.

• Homebase

  • Key Features: Focuses more on home and garden projects, with a good selection of smaller building materials, decorating supplies, and garden products. Often appeals to homeowners undertaking renovations.
  • Average Price: Mid-range.
  • Pros: Good for general home improvements and garden needs, offers design services for kitchens and bathrooms, often provides inspiration for projects.
  • Cons: Limited range for heavy-duty trade building materials, may not be the primary choice for large-scale construction projects.

• Jewson

  • Key Features: A major builders’ merchant with a long history, providing a comprehensive range of building materials, timber, and sustainable solutions. Caters heavily to trade professionals.
  • Average Price: Trade-oriented pricing.
  • Pros: Extensive product lines for all types of construction, strong focus on sustainability, knowledgeable staff, ideal for large-scale projects.
  • Cons: Less consumer-friendly for casual DIYers, minimum order quantities for certain products.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Coversmerchants.co.uk Review & First Look

Upon initial examination, Coversmerchants.co.uk presents as a robust and well-established online platform for building and timber supplies within the United Kingdom. The homepage immediately conveys a sense of professionalism and extensive inventory, crucial for a business catering to both trade professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. The website’s design is clean and intuitive, ensuring that users can easily navigate through its vast catalogue. This immediate impression is vital, as a clear and transparent online presence is a cornerstone of legitimacy in today’s digital marketplace.

Website Design and User Experience

The layout of Coversmerchants.co.uk is remarkably user-friendly. The main navigation bar prominently displays major categories such as “Timber,” “Building Materials,” “Landscaping & Garden,” and “Tools & Equipment,” which are further broken down into numerous subcategories. This hierarchical structure allows for efficient browsing, whether a user is looking for specific items like “Structural Timber & Carcassing” or broader categories like “Insulation.” The site loads quickly, and product listings are accompanied by clear images and essential details, such as product codes and pricing with both VAT inclusive and exclusive options, which is a significant benefit for trade customers managing budgets. The persistent visibility of “Need help? Call us” and “Get a quote” alongside links to “My Account” and “My Basket” in the header and footer ensures that support and transactional functions are always accessible.

Credibility and Trust Signals

Coversmerchants.co.uk incorporates several trust signals that enhance its credibility. The direct link to its Trustpilot profile (https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/coversmerchants.co.uk and https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/www.coversmerchants.co.uk) is a transparent move, allowing potential customers to review independent feedback. Furthermore, the explicit mention of “over 175 years” in business highlights its deep roots and long-standing presence in the industry, which is a powerful indicator of reliability. The “Depot Finder” feature (https://www.coversmerchants.co.uk/our-depots/) for its fifteen physical locations across the South of England further solidifies its brick-and-mortar legitimacy. For instance, data from the UK Government’s Companies House typically shows a long history of trading for established businesses, which aligns with Covers’ claim of longevity. Such detailed operational information provides a strong foundation of trust, signalling that this is not a fly-by-night operation but a well-integrated part of the UK’s building supply chain.

Coversmerchants.co.uk Features

Coversmerchants.co.uk boasts a comprehensive suite of features designed to cater effectively to the needs of its diverse customer base, ranging from individual homeowners undertaking minor renovations to large-scale construction firms. These features streamline the purchasing process, provide valuable information, and enhance overall customer convenience.

Extensive Product Catalogue

The sheer breadth of products offered on Coversmerchants.co.uk is one of its most impressive features. With over 30,000 product lines available, the website functions as a one-stop shop for almost any building or landscaping project. Handbagclinic.co.uk Review

• Timber: From structural timber and carcassing, including CLS Softwood and Sawn Joinery Grade Whitewood (Spruce), to specialised items like Scaffold Boards and Roof Battens. They also offer a wide array of Hardwood, Skirting, Architraves & Planed Flooring, and various Sheet Materials like Plywood, MDF, and OSB.
• Building Materials: This section covers essentials such as Bricks & Blocks, Cement & Aggregates, Plasterboard (including fire, moisture, and sound boards), diverse Roofing solutions, and comprehensive Insulation options. They also stock Lintels, Civils, Drainage & Guttering components, and Builders Metal Work like wall ties and joist hangers.
• Landscaping & Garden: For outdoor projects, the site provides Paving & Walling (Porcelain, Natural Stone, Concrete), various Fencing & Gates options, a full range of Decking (Softwood, Hardwood, Composite), Sleepers, and Artificial Grass.
• Doors, Windows & Flooring: A dedicated section for interior and exterior finishes, including Internal Doors, External Doors, Fire Doors, and various Windows (including roof windows). Their flooring options span Engineered Wood, Laminate, Solid Wood, and Vinyl Flooring.
• Painting & Decorating: This covers all aspects of finishing, from Interior Paint (Emulsion, Primers, Kitchen & Bathroom paints) and Exterior Paint (Masonry, Metal, Wood paints) to Woodcare products (Stains, Varnishes, Preservatives) and a full suite of Decorating Tools & Supplies.
• Fixings, Adhesives & Sealants: Essential for any construction work, this category includes Nails & Screws, Nuts, Bolts & Washers, various Sealants (Hybrid, Grab, Caulk), and a wide range of Glues & Adhesives (Wood Glue, Tile Adhesive).
• Tools & Equipment: The site also provides a robust selection of Power Tools (Drills, Saws, Grinders), Hand Tools (Measuring, Knives, Screwdrivers), and other Tools & Accessories like ladders, PPE, and site equipment.

This vast inventory demonstrates a deep understanding of the construction and renovation market, providing almost everything a builder or homeowner might require. According to a report by Statista on the UK construction market, comprehensive suppliers like Coversmerchants play a critical role in supporting diverse project needs, from small repairs to large-scale builds.

Ordering and Delivery Options

Coversmerchants.co.uk offers flexible and convenient options for ordering and receiving goods, catering to different customer preferences and project scales.

• Free Delivery: A notable feature is the free delivery service when customers spend over £300. This incentive is particularly beneficial for larger projects, helping to reduce overall costs and streamline logistics. Delivery information is clearly laid out, which is crucial for planning project timelines.
• Click & Collect: For customers who prefer to pick up their orders or need items quickly, the Click & Collect service from their local depot is a major advantage. With fifteen depots strategically located across the South of England, this option provides flexibility and immediate access to products. This aligns with the growing trend, as highlighted by a report from the UK Retail Consortium, where click & collect services have seen substantial growth due to consumer demand for convenience.
• Get a Quote Feature: The prominent “Get a quote” option (https://coversmerchants.co.uk/get-a-quote) allows customers to receive tailored pricing for larger or more complex orders, a feature highly valued by trade professionals who often require specific quantities or bespoke materials.

Customer Support and Account Management

The website places a strong emphasis on customer support and streamlined account management.

• Direct Contact: Multiple prominent calls to action for “Need help?” with a direct phone number (0800 2100 458) ensure that customers can easily reach out for assistance. This accessibility fosters trust and confidence.
• My Account Functionality: The “My Account Sign in / Sign up” portal (https://www.coversmerchants.co.uk/customer/account/login/) allows customers to manage their orders, track deliveries, view purchase history, and simplify future transactions. This is a standard but essential feature for any e-commerce platform, enhancing customer loyalty and convenience.
• “Apply For an Account”: This option suggests that Coversmerchants caters to both individual and trade accounts, potentially offering credit facilities or preferential pricing for regular business customers, which is a common practice among builders’ merchants.

Coversmerchants.co.uk Pros & Cons

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of any online service is crucial for informed decision-making. Coversmerchants.co.uk, while highly commendable in many aspects, also has areas where it could potentially enhance its offering or user experience.

Pros

Coversmerchants.co.uk boasts a multitude of advantages that make it a compelling choice for purchasing building and timber materials. Cpjefferies.co.uk Review

• Extensive Product Range: As highlighted, the catalogue of over 30,000 product lines is a significant strength. This vast selection means that customers are highly likely to find all the necessary materials for their projects, from foundational elements like timber and aggregates to finishing touches like paint and flooring. This breadth reduces the need to source materials from multiple suppliers, saving time and logistics costs. For instance, a small builder might require structural timber, plasterboard, and insulation for a single project; Coversmerchants can supply all these from one order.
• Strong Reputation and Longevity: Being in business for over 175 years is an undeniable testament to their reliability and stability. This long history indicates deep industry knowledge, established supply chains, and a proven track record of customer satisfaction. In the competitive UK building supply market, such longevity is a powerful differentiator, reassuring customers of their commitment and trustworthiness. This historical presence often translates into robust operations and adherence to quality standards.
• Clear Pricing and VAT Information: The website explicitly displays prices with both VAT inclusive and exclusive options. This transparency is highly valuable for both private individuals (who prefer VAT inclusive pricing) and trade customers (who operate on VAT exclusive pricing for accounting purposes). This clarity helps in budgeting and avoiding surprises, fostering a transparent purchasing environment.
• Flexible Delivery and Collection Options: The provision of free delivery on orders over £300 makes large purchases more economical, while the Click & Collect service from 15 depots offers unmatched flexibility and convenience for urgent needs or smaller collections. This multi-channel approach caters to varied customer preferences and logistical requirements, enhancing efficiency.
• Accessibility of Customer Support: The prominent display of a dedicated phone number (0800 2100 458) and a “Get a quote” option directly on the homepage ensures that help is readily available. This ease of contact is critical for resolving queries quickly and providing personalised advice, which is highly valued in the building and construction sector.
• Positive Trustpilot Rating: The direct link to their Trustpilot profile with presumably positive reviews (as indicated by the mention of “Trustpilot” directly on the homepage, implying confidence in their rating) serves as strong social proof. Independent customer reviews are a powerful indicator of service quality and customer satisfaction, lending significant credibility to the business. According to a 2023 survey by BrightLocal, 79% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
• Ethical and Permissible Product Range: From an Islamic perspective, the products offered by Coversmerchants.co.uk—timber, building materials, tools, and general home improvement supplies—are entirely permissible (halal). They do not involve any forbidden categories such as interest-based financing, gambling, intoxicating substances, or other illicit activities. This makes it a reliable and ethical choice for Muslim consumers and businesses.

Cons

While Coversmerchants.co.uk offers many benefits, there are a few areas that could be improved upon to enhance the user experience further.

• Lack of Live Chat Support: Although phone support is readily available, the absence of a live chat function might be a minor drawback for some users. Many modern e-commerce platforms offer live chat for quick, instantaneous queries that don’t require a phone call, especially during off-peak hours or for customers who prefer text-based communication. This can be a more efficient way to handle simple questions about stock availability or product specifications.
• No Explicit Environmental/Sustainability Information on Homepage: While the site mentions “Eco Energy” in its menu, there isn’t prominent, easily accessible information on the homepage itself regarding their environmental policies or commitment to sustainability. In an era where customers, particularly in the UK, are increasingly conscious of environmental impact (as per a 2023 report by the Office for National Statistics, 85% of adults in Great Britain are concerned about climate change), showcasing certifications like FSC® or PEFC prominently or outlining their sustainable sourcing practices could further enhance their appeal. While product listings do mention FSC® or PEFC certification, a dedicated, easily found section outlining their broader environmental ethos would be beneficial.
• No Direct “About Us” Page Link in Main Navigation: While there is an “About Us” section in the footer, it’s not immediately visible in the primary navigation menu at the top. For a company with such a rich history, a prominent “About Us” link in the main header could allow new visitors to quickly learn about their legacy and values, reinforcing trust from the outset.
• No Dedicated Blog or Knowledge Hub: The website focuses purely on commerce. Adding a blog or knowledge hub with articles on DIY tips, construction best practices, material guides, or even case studies could attract more organic traffic, establish Coversmerchants as an industry authority, and provide additional value to customers beyond just product sales. For instance, articles on “How to Choose the Right Timber for Your Project” or “Understanding Different Insulation Types” could be highly beneficial.

Coversmerchants.co.uk Alternatives

For those seeking alternative suppliers for timber, building materials, and home improvement products in the UK, several reputable companies offer similar extensive ranges and reliable services. Each has its own strengths, catering to slightly different needs and preferences.

• B&Q

  

  • Key Features: As a household name in UK DIY and home improvement, B&Q offers an incredibly diverse range of products from raw building materials to decorative items and garden supplies. They cater to both large projects and small home repairs. Their website is very user-friendly, and they have an extensive network of physical stores across the UK.
  • Average Price: Generally competitive, with frequent sales and loyalty programs.
  • Pros: Wide accessibility with numerous stores, strong online presence, regular promotions, excellent for general DIY needs and a comprehensive product selection.
  • Cons: Stock levels can sometimes vary significantly between stores, and while they cater to trade, some high-volume or specialist trade materials might be less readily available than at a dedicated builders’ merchant.

• Travis Perkins Justinreess.co.uk Review

  • Key Features: A leading national builders’ merchant, Travis Perkins is primarily geared towards trade professionals but is accessible to the public. They offer a comprehensive range of heavy-side building materials, timber, and sustainable building solutions. They have a strong emphasis on providing expert advice and reliable service.
  • Average Price: Trade-oriented pricing, often with discounts for account holders.
  • Pros: Specialist advice, high-quality trade-grade materials, extensive network of branches for collection, strong reputation within the construction industry.
  • Cons: Website might feel less consumer-friendly compared to retail-focused DIY stores, and prices for individuals might be slightly higher without a trade account.

• Screwfix

  • Key Features: Renowned for its rapid click & collect service (often within minutes) and vast inventory of tools, hardware, plumbing, electrical, and workwear products. Screwfix is a go-to for urgent trade supplies and small-to-medium project essentials.
  • Average Price: Highly competitive, especially for tools and fixings.
  • Pros: Unbeatable speed for collection, excellent stock availability for core trade items, frequent new product releases, vast network of compact stores.
  • Cons: Less focus on bulky building materials like large timber sections, aggregates, or bespoke joinery. More of a “trade counter” experience than a full builders’ merchant.

• Wickes

  • Key Features: Positioned as a strong contender for both DIY and trade, Wickes offers a broad spectrum of products, including kitchens, bathrooms, timber, building materials, and garden supplies. They often have design services and project inspiration available.
  • Average Price: Mid-range, with good promotional offers.
  • Pros: Good balance between DIY and trade focus, comprehensive product categories, reliable delivery options, and often runs sales on larger items.
  • Cons: Might not have the deep specialist inventory that dedicated trade-only suppliers offer for niche construction materials.

• Toolstation

  • Key Features: Similar to Screwfix, Toolstation provides a wide array of trade tools, accessories, and building supplies with a focus on speed and value. They have a growing network of branches for quick collection.
  • Average Price: Very competitive pricing across their range.
  • Pros: Excellent value, rapid collection service, good selection of essential trade items, user-friendly website.
  • Cons: Like Screwfix, their strength lies more in tools and consumables rather than large volumes of raw building materials.

• Homebase

  • Key Features: While also offering core building materials, Homebase places a stronger emphasis on garden, home furnishings, and decorative elements. It’s a good option for those looking to complete a project with aesthetically pleasing finishes.
  • Average Price: Mid-range.
  • Pros: Strong garden centre offerings, good for internal décor and smaller home projects, often has inspirational displays.
  • Cons: Less comprehensive for heavy-side building materials and trade supplies compared to dedicated builders’ merchants. May not be the first choice for large-scale construction.

• Jewson Sportitfirst.co.uk Review

  • Key Features: As one of the largest builders’ merchants in the UK, Jewson provides an extensive range of timber, building materials, and innovative solutions, with a strong focus on sustainable products. They cater predominantly to trade customers.
  • Average Price: Trade-oriented.
  • Pros: Very wide range of products for all construction needs, strong emphasis on sustainability and new building technologies, experienced staff.
  • Cons: Less retail-focused, website and ordering might be more tailored to trade account holders.

How to Cancel Coversmerchants.co.uk Subscription

Based on the provided homepage text, Coversmerchants.co.uk does not appear to offer a traditional “subscription” service in the sense of a recurring monthly or annual fee for digital content or premium access. Instead, it operates as an e-commerce platform for purchasing building and timber materials. Therefore, the concept of cancelling a “subscription” doesn’t directly apply here.

However, if a user has applied for a trade account or has an ongoing credit facility, this would fall under account management. To “cancel” or close such an account, the process would typically involve direct communication with their customer service or account management department.

Steps to Manage or Close a Coversmerchants.co.uk Account

If you have an established trade account with Coversmerchants.co.uk and wish to close it or adjust its terms, you would follow these general steps:

1. Contact Customer Service: The most direct method is to call their customer service line. The website prominently displays “Call us: 0800 2100 458” (previously 0844 858 4040, the new number is more prominent). Explain your intention to close or manage your account.
2. Email or Written Correspondence: While not explicitly mentioned on the homepage, most companies offer an email address or a contact form for account-related queries. Look for a “Contact Us” page (https://coversmerchants.co.uk/contact-us) which usually provides more detailed communication channels. Sending a written request ensures a documented trail.
3. Review Account Terms: If you initially signed up for a trade account, there would have been terms and conditions (T&Cs) that outline the process for account termination or inactivity. It’s always wise to refer back to these documents if you have them.
4. Confirm Account Closure: Once you’ve initiated the process, ensure you receive confirmation from Coversmerchants.co.uk that your account has been successfully closed or adjusted according to your request. This protects you from any lingering responsibilities or charges.

It’s important to differentiate between a general online purchase (which is a one-off transaction) and an ongoing trade account. For standard purchases, there’s no “cancellation” needed beyond managing returns or order modifications as per their standard terms and conditions.

Coversmerchants.co.uk Pricing

Coversmerchants.co.uk adopts a clear and transparent pricing structure, which is a significant advantage for both individual customers and trade professionals. The pricing is displayed directly on the product listings, with options to view prices both inclusive and exclusive of Value Added Tax (VAT). This dual display caters to different user needs and simplifies budgeting for projects of all sizes. Travelbyinspire.co.uk Review

Product Pricing Display

The most prominent aspect of Coversmerchants.co.uk’s pricing is its directness. For each product listed, customers can see:

• Price Including VAT: This is the total price an individual consumer would pay. For example, for “Heidelberg Multicem Cement Plastic Bag 25Kg,” the price is displayed as £10.38.
• Price Excluding VAT: This is the net price, often preferred by businesses and trade professionals for their accounting and invoicing. For the same cement product, the price is shown as £8.65.

This clarity helps in avoiding confusion and ensures that customers understand the final cost upfront. The presence of product codes (e.g., “Product Code: B10129” for the cement) further aids in accurate ordering and reference.

Special Offers and Deals

The website actively promotes “Special Offers” and “Smart Deals” through dedicated sections (https://coversmerchants.co.uk/special-offers and https://www.coversmerchants.co.uk/special-offers/smart-deals). These sections feature discounted products, providing opportunities for customers to save on their purchases.
Examples of current special offers from the homepage include:

• P5 T&G Chipboard 18 x 2400 x 600mm FSC® Certified: £17.99 (£14.99 ex VAT)
• Treated Sawn Tile Batten 25 x 50mm FSC® Certified: £1.44 (£1.20 ex VAT)
• OSB3 18 x 2440 x 1220mm FSC® Certified: £28.79 (£23.99 ex VAT)

These promotions are a standard and effective e-commerce strategy to drive sales and offer value, particularly important in the competitive building materials market where margins can be tight. According to UK retail market analysis by Verdict Retail, special offers are a key factor influencing purchasing decisions for both trade and DIY customers.

Account Pricing and Benefits

Coversmerchants.co.uk also encourages customers to “Apply For an Account” (https://coversmerchants.co.uk/customer/account/login/). While the homepage doesn’t detail specific account pricing benefits, trade accounts with builders’ merchants typically offer: Bmdarchives.co.uk Review

• Credit Facilities: Allowing businesses to purchase materials on credit, which is crucial for managing cash flow on large projects.
• Volume Discounts: Preferential pricing for bulk orders or consistent purchasing.
• Dedicated Account Managers: Personalised service for managing large or complex orders.
• Tailored Quotes: More detailed and potentially discounted quotes for significant projects.

This tiered pricing approach, offering general public prices alongside potential trade account benefits, is a common practice among large builders’ merchants. It ensures competitiveness across different customer segments.

Factors Influencing Pricing

Several factors contribute to the pricing of building materials, which Coversmerchants.co.uk would undoubtedly factor into its structure:

• Raw Material Costs: Fluctuations in global timber, steel, cement, and aggregate markets directly impact final product prices. For example, the Timber Trade Federation frequently reports on timber price trends, which can see significant volatility.
• Supply Chain and Logistics: The cost of transporting materials from manufacturers to depots and then to customers influences pricing.
• VAT Rates: The standard UK VAT rate of 20% is applied to most building materials, influencing the “inc VAT” price.
• Market Demand: High demand for certain materials can lead to price increases, while oversupply might result in lower prices.
• Certification (e.g., FSC/PEFC): Materials with sustainable forestry certifications might have slightly different cost structures compared to uncertified alternatives.

Coversmerchants.co.uk’s transparent pricing display and frequent special offers indicate a commitment to providing value while maintaining a robust operational model that handles the complexities of material sourcing and delivery.

Coversmerchants.co.uk vs. Key Competitors

When evaluating Coversmerchants.co.uk, it’s useful to compare its offering against other major players in the UK building and DIY supplies market. While each competitor has its unique selling propositions, a comparative analysis highlights Coversmerchants’ strengths and how it positions itself in the industry.

Coversmerchants.co.uk vs. B&Q

• Coversmerchants.co.uk: Specialises deeply in timber and building materials, reflecting its long history as a builders’ merchant. It offers a vast inventory (30,000+ lines) suitable for trade and serious DIY. Its online presence is strong, backed by numerous physical depots for trade convenience. Pricing is clear with VAT options, and free delivery over £300 is a good incentive for larger orders.
• B&Q: A retail giant focusing on home improvement and garden products, catering broadly to DIY consumers. While it has building materials, its range might not be as deep or specialised as Coversmerchants for certain trade-grade products. B&Q’s strength lies in its widespread retail accessibility and a more consumer-friendly shopping experience with broader lifestyle products.
• Key Differentiator: Coversmerchants is more of a traditional builders’ merchant with a strong online presence, whereas B&Q is a retail DIY superstore that also stocks building materials. For a builder, Coversmerchants might be preferable for bulk, trade-specific items.

Coversmerchants.co.uk vs. Travis Perkins

• Coversmerchants.co.uk: Shares a similar heritage and focus as a builders’ merchant. It prides itself on extensive stock and customer service. Its digital platform is well-developed, offering seamless online purchasing.
• Travis Perkins: A colossal force in the UK construction supply chain, known for its extensive network of branches and comprehensive range of building materials, timber, and sustainable solutions. It’s heavily trade-focused, offering credit accounts and bespoke services to large construction firms.
• Key Differentiator: Both are strong builders’ merchants. Travis Perkins might have a larger national footprint and greater market share, especially with very large contractors. Coversmerchants offers a highly competitive and dedicated service in its regional strongholds (South of England), maintaining a strong independent family company ethos. Data from the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) often shows Travis Perkins as a market leader, but independent merchants like Covers play a significant regional role.

Coversmerchants.co.uk vs. Screwfix

• Coversmerchants.co.uk: Provides a full spectrum of building materials, from raw timber and aggregates to power tools. It’s designed for comprehensive project sourcing.
• Screwfix: Primarily known for its rapid availability of tools, fixings, workwear, and electrical/plumbing essentials. Its model is built around quick pick-up from thousands of compact trade counters. While they do stock some building supplies, they are not typically the go-to for large volumes of timber or heavy-side materials.
• Key Differentiator: Coversmerchants is a general builder’s merchant for major supplies, while Screwfix is more of a rapid trade counter for immediate needs and smaller items. A professional might use both: Covers for main materials and Screwfix for quick tool replacements or consumables.

Coversmerchants.co.uk vs. Wickes

• Coversmerchants.co.uk: A dedicated builders’ merchant, with an emphasis on a broad and deep range of construction materials and timber, catering to trade specifications.
• Wickes: A hybrid retailer that serves both DIY and trade customers. It offers a good range of building materials, but also places significant emphasis on kitchens, bathrooms, and decorative finishes. Their online presence is strong, and they often provide design services.
• Key Differentiator: Wickes is perhaps more consumer-facing with its kitchen and bathroom design services, whereas Coversmerchants maintains a stronger traditional builders’ merchant identity. For sheer breadth of raw materials, Coversmerchants holds its own.

In summary, Coversmerchants.co.uk distinguishes itself through its deep specialisation in timber and building materials, its extensive product range, and its strong regional presence with physical depots, all backed by a long-standing reputation. While competitors like Travis Perkins might dominate nationally in sheer scale, and retailers like B&Q excel in broad consumer appeal, Coversmerchants offers a robust, reliable, and ethically sound option for anyone seeking comprehensive building and timber supplies in the UK. Its clear pricing and flexible fulfilment options further solidify its position as a strong contender in the market. Atkinandthyme.co.uk Review

FAQ

What is Coversmerchants.co.uk?

Coversmerchants.co.uk is an online platform for Covers Timber & Builders Merchants, a long-established UK company that supplies a wide range of timber, building materials, landscaping products, tools, and home improvement items. They operate online and through fifteen physical depots across the South of England.

Is Coversmerchants.co.uk a legitimate website?

Yes, based on the information provided on their homepage, Coversmerchants.co.uk appears to be a highly legitimate and well-established business. They explicitly mention operating for over 175 years, provide clear contact information, have a Trustpilot link, and offer extensive product categories.

What kind of products does Coversmerchants.co.uk sell?

Coversmerchants.co.uk sells a comprehensive range of products including structural timber, hardwoods, sheet materials (plywood, MDF, OSB), bricks, blocks, cement, aggregates, plasterboard, roofing materials, insulation, paving, fencing, decking, doors, windows, flooring, paints, decorating tools, fixings, adhesives, sealants, power tools, and hand tools.

Does Coversmerchants.co.uk offer free delivery?

Yes, Coversmerchants.co.uk offers free delivery when you spend over £300 on their website.

Can I collect my order from a physical location?

Yes, Coversmerchants.co.uk offers a “Click & Collect” service, allowing you to pick up your order from one of their fifteen local depots across the South of England. Perriconemd.co.uk Review

How long has Coversmerchants.co.uk been in business?

Covers Timber & Builders Merchants, the company behind Coversmerchants.co.uk, has been supplying timber and building materials for over 175 years.

Are the prices on Coversmerchants.co.uk inclusive or exclusive of VAT?

The prices on Coversmerchants.co.uk are displayed with both VAT inclusive (Inc VAT) and VAT exclusive (Ex VAT) options, providing clarity for both private and trade customers.

How can I get a quote for a large order?

You can get a quote by using the “Get a quote” feature prominently displayed on the Coversmerchants.co.uk website.

Does Coversmerchants.co.uk cater to trade professionals?

Yes, Coversmerchants.co.uk explicitly caters to both general customers and trade professionals, with options to “Apply For an Account” which typically offers trade benefits.

Is there a customer service phone number for Coversmerchants.co.uk?

Yes, you can call Coversmerchants.co.uk for help at 0800 2100 458. Centralsports.co.uk Review

What are Covers Essentials?

Covers Essentials appears to be a curated selection of core building materials, landscaping, gardening, painting, decorating, ironmongery, fixings, tools, and safety equipment offered by Coversmerchants.co.uk.

Does Coversmerchants.co.uk offer tool hire?

Yes, the homepage mentions “HSS Hire,” indicating that Coversmerchants.co.uk facilitates tool hire services, likely in partnership with HSS Hire.

Can I find career opportunities at Coversmerchants.co.uk?

Yes, there is a “Careers” link on the homepage, leading to their dedicated careers website (www.coverscareers.co.uk).

What types of timber are available at Coversmerchants.co.uk?

Coversmerchants.co.uk offers a wide range of timber including structural timber & carcassing (CLS softwood), planed all round (PAR), sawn joinery grade whitewood (spruce), redwood (pine), scaffold boards, roof battens, hardwoods, skirting, architraves, planed flooring, and timber cladding.

Does Coversmerchants.co.uk sell artificial grass?

Yes, artificial grass is listed as a product category under their Landscaping & Garden section, along with weed control and accessories. Youchooseagift.co.uk Review

What kind of flooring options does Coversmerchants.co.uk provide?

Coversmerchants.co.uk provides engineered wood flooring, laminate flooring, solid wood flooring, vinyl flooring, underlay, trims & accessories, and floor care products from brands like Parador, Woodpecker, and Palio Trade by Karndean.

Are there any safety products available on Coversmerchants.co.uk?

Yes, the website has a “PPE & Safety” category under Tools & Equipment, which includes safety goggles and protective gloves.

Can I find information on sustainable products on their website?

While specific products mention FSC® or PEFC certification, and there is an “Eco Energy” link, the homepage doesn’t have a prominent general section dedicated to their overall environmental or sustainability policies. You would need to check individual product descriptions or explore the “Eco Energy” page.

How can I sign in or sign up for an account?

You can sign in or sign up for an account on Coversmerchants.co.uk by clicking the “My Account Sign in / Sign up” link available on the top of the homepage.

Does Coversmerchants.co.uk offer kitchen and bathroom products?

Yes, the website has dedicated sections for “Kitchens” and “Bathrooms” under its “Kitchens & Bathrooms” main category. Bakesdownfarm.co.uk Review