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So, you’ve got the vision, the blueprints and the budget sorted, but the question still lingers: should you source your timber locally or take advantage of the ease of online timber suppliers? This is a common dilemma, with a multitude of timber manufacturers in Melbourne and just as many online retailers the options are limitless.
In this article, we’ll help share our top tips for finding the right timber supplier, so you can kick off your dream project with confidence.
Tip One: Consider What You’re Creating
Does your project feature visible elements, such as custom furniture or joinery? If the answer is yes, and aesthetics are integral to your vision, visiting local yards and timber manufacturers in Melbourne can be beneficial. It allows you to get a closer look at the finer details, which can make all the difference to your finished product.
Things like colour or grain matching and inspecting timber for warping, knots or cracks are so much easier in person! It’s also a great option if you want an expert to provide extra guidance on bringing your vision to life.
Tip Two: Online Can Offer Convenience & Variety
The beauty of online retailers is that they deliver fast-paced convenience, and can be useful if you’re a builder in a remote area or with limited access to local shops.
Online timber stores often have a wider variety of international timber hardwood suppliers, with more exotic species and unique cuts that a local store may not have access to.
It’s worth noting that online retailers often have longer shipping times, unlike local stores that may already have the stock available.
Tip Three: Indoors or Outdoors? Always Consider The Nature of Your Project!
The type of timber species you will need depends on the location of your project. For example, local favourites for decking in Australian backyards are hardwoods like Spotted Gum or Jarrah due to their resistance to intense weather and pests.
Visiting local timber manufacturers or investigating engineered timber in Melbourne is a great place to start if you’ve got an outdoor project planned. That way, you can speak with an expert to get extra information on the timber treatments and ratings designed to prevent rot or insect issues. It also allows you to inspect the timber before purchasing so you can look for any premature signs of damage.
Tip Four: Understand Your Aesthetic
Modern, rustic, coastal, minimal? Think about the overarching aesthetic of your project, because believe it or not, the type of timber you choose plays an important part in achieving this!
For modern spaces with visible installations, we recommend hardwoods with a sleek, even grain, such as Tasmanian oak, Blackbutt, American Oak or Maple. You can also add a clear coat to these to enhance the timbers’ unique colour and texture, creating a more polished finish.
If you’re after a more rustic feel then opt for timber with character. Sourcing from recycled timber hardwood suppliers or hunting for second-hand timber slabs can be a great option! Recycled timber often appears at salvage yards, demolition sites, or specialised resale shops in your area. You can also search online marketplaces for local sellers who rescue timber from old buildings or renovations.
Tip Five: Consider Your Timelines
While timber supply has seen some improvements, the industry remains susceptible to disruptions, whether from global shipping delays or unexpected issues at production sites. Choosing local timber hardwood suppliers or engineered timber in Melbourne is a great way to ensure shorter delivery times and minimise any unexpected fees.
When you shop with online timber retailers, you may have a greater variety of unique options at competitive prices. However, there’s always the risk of longer lead times and unexpected import fees.
Tip Six: Know Your Budget
There are many factors at play when it comes to timber pricing, for example, transportation fees, fluctuations in demand, and increased costs associated with harvesting and processing. For imported timber, exchange rates can also drive up costs if the Australian dollar weakens. This is the reason why many locals, particularly in areas like Canberra, prefer Australian timber suppliers or smaller regional producers.
To break it down:
Local stores: Offer more budget-friendly prices for popular species due to lower shipping costs. You can also inspect the timber before purchases and avoid any unexpected fees.
Online timber suppliers: Often have discounts or special promotions on a more diverse range of species, but you run the risk of higher shipping fees and a less tailored approach.
Having a clear understanding of your budget is the first step in choosing where you source your timber from. We also recommend comparing quotes from a few sources, it’s the easiest way to ensure you’re getting the best price and the right services for your unique project needs.
Ultimately, whether you’re heading to a local yard or clicking ‘add to cart’ online, your perfect timber supplier boils down to your project and personal preferences.
We hope this guide helps you in your search to find the perfect planks!
