Ask any tradesperson around the UK at the moment and they’ll tell you the amount at which prices of materials are increasing is almost impossible to comprehend.

There are a number of factors that are causing price increases and product availability issues and as a result, builders merchants Jewson have released an official statement outlining what the current situation is and what customers can expect to pay due to ongoing shortages as well as other issues.

Products such as MDF Mouldings, Sealants, Adhesives and Chemicals could all see prices rise as much as 20% in September with an number of other products facing significant increases as well.

In an official statement released from Jewson the company explained, “Given the current market conditions we know how important it is that you are provided with notice of any significant price changes”

“We are therefore advising you of some price increases on products that you have purchased previously. The below increases will come into effect on September 1st 2021.”

Product Category/Price Increase:

• Wheelbarrows 10–15%
• Sealants, Adhesives and Chemicals 5–20% 
• MDF Mouldings 20%
• PIR Insulation 7%
• Glass Wool Insulation 12%

The price of timber products will also be affected;

Product Category/Price Increase:

• BS Batten 10%
• Type A Batten 10% 
• Casings and Linings 14%
• MDF Mouldings 20%

Jewson has said these prices do not apply to all products but only highlight the most relevant price increases.

The statement goes on to explain some of the reasons for the price rise, citing ‘the unprecedented increases on sealants, adhesives and chemicals. These increases are the result of the continued rise in demand from both within the construction industry as well as outside (e.g. in the automotive industry).’

‘This demand has ultimately resulted in reduced supply of key raw materials used in their production which has increased costs.’

‘The rest of the market is being affected by increased costs of a number of factors including but not limited to; importing finished goods, availability of haulage, packing materials, implementing new safety measures and operating costs.’

‘Additionally, due to the increased demand for various products in recent months, there is a shortage of raw material available to our suppliers meaning the cost of creating certain products has increased (e.g. steel used in the production of wheelbarrows).’

‘Lastly, the cost of transport has increased almost 6-fold which is further increasing operating costs.’

Worldwide demand in timber products have dramatically affected the cost of the material since the pandemic started, with the company outlining ‘The price of timber is continuing to fluctuate as a result of the on-going increase in worldwide demand.'

‘Other markets around the world are willing to pay higher prices for timber products which results in the UK market having to pay more for the small amount of supply left available.’

If you would like to keep up to date with latest price updates and product availability, you can do so here.