Should You Buy Surplus Building Materials? Pros and Cons Explained

Surplus Building Materials: Key Takeaways

• Surplus materials offer several key benefits: lower prices, immediate availability, and unique look and feel
• Drawbacks include limited quantities, no warranties, and possible condition issues
• Surplus materials are a good choice for small projects, temporary fixes, and decorative upgrades
• You can find surplus materials at local surplus suppliers, salvage yards, and online marketplaces or through contractor connections
• To make the most of surplus items, inspect them carefully, store them properly, and be open to the idea of modifying them to fit your needs

Wholesale prices for wood doors and windows jumped by 49% between January 2020 and January 2024. Metal doors and windows went up by 59%.

Does that make renovations out of reach? Not if you know where and how to look.

This guide will break down:

• The benefits of using surplus building materials
• The drawbacks you need to consider
• When buying surplus materials makes sense
• Where to find surplus inventory
• How to buy, store, and use surplus products

Can’t afford overpriced renovation materials? Check out our inventory at Builders Surplus

Pros of Buying Surplus Building Materials

Looking to complete a renovation project but worried about high prices and delayed delivery? Looking for surplus materials can help.

Cost Savings

Surplus materials often have lower prices, sometimes 40% to 70% below retail, as they usually come from:

• Extra stock
• Canceled orders
• Cleared-out warehouses

For example, at a surplus store, you might find a solid-core interior door for half the price compared to large national or chain home improvement retailers like Home Depot or Lowe’s.

Unique and Vintage Finds

Surplus yards can be real treasure islands if you’re looking for one-of-a-kind items.

You can find an old stained glass door, art deco tiles that are no longer produced, or discontinued cabinet finishes that will add personality and charm to your home and distinguish it from anyone else’s.

Immediate Availability

Custom orders take weeks or even months to arrive due to ordering materials, production wait times, and multiple quality checks.

Surplus items are in stock and ready to take that same day, which means no delays, faster completion, and more time for you and your loved ones.

Environmental Benefits

Buying surplus or reusing building materials cuts down pollution by avoiding new manufacturing and keeping waste out of landfills, as reported by the Carbon Neutral Cities Alliance.

This sustainable choice contributes to greener building practices and can be an excellent alternative for eco-conscious homeowners and contractors.

Surplus building materials are a budget-friendly alternative for your project

Cons of Buying Surplus Building Materials

Excited to get started? Here’s what you need to watch out for before committing to surplus materials.

Limited Quantities

You might not always find the quantities you need. For example, if you’re looking for 15 matching windows for your project, there may be only 10 available.

This might be challenging in some scenarios, for example, if you’re remodeling 20 hotel rooms that need to look the same.

Quality and Condition Concerns

Most surplus products are brand-new or minimally used. However, cost saving sometimes comes with minor scratches, dents, or chipped corners.

Lack of Warranty or Support

Surplus materials often don’t have a warranty due to:

• Ended product lines that are no longer supported
• Overstock or factory seconds that need to be cleared out

Compatibility Issues

Surplus items may not always be compatible with current fixtures, standards, or systems.

When Can You Use Surplus Building Materials for Renovation?

Not sure if buying surplus building materials is your thing? It can make a big difference in the following situations.

Small-Scale Projects

Surplus doors, windows, cabinets, and kitchen countertops allow you to touch up a room or change a small part of your interior, bringing exceptional value for a fraction of the price.

Decorative Purposes

Imagine transforming your garden gate into a statement piece. Or a backsplash of forgotten tiles whispering stories from old times. Surplus materials can make this happen by adding a touch of magic and a distinct style to your project.

Temporary Solutions

Surplus materials are a smart and affordable option for short-term fixes, for example when you need to:

• Keep the bathroom functional while waiting for a custom vanity.
• Cover a damaged floor with temporary laminate flooring until you’re ready for a more expensive option.
• Keep rooms and corridors lit because new fixtures are delayed.
• Maintain privacy until your new doors arrive.

Budget Constraints

If you’re on a tight budget, surplus materials can help you achieve a fresh and attractive look for your home without overspending.

For example, when renovating a bedroom for your daughter’s birthday or replacing a cracked bathroom sink before your parents arrive.

Tips for Sourcing Surplus Building Materials Near You

Ready to try surplus materials for your project? There are several ways to find good quality for less money.

Research Local Suppliers

Look for surplus stores selling overstock, factory seconds, and closeouts. Check online reviews and visit their websites to see what’s available at the moment.

Note that not all items in stock will be on display, so consider visiting the place to find great deals before they are gone.

Visit Salvage Yards and Reuse Centers

Think of it as a treasure hunt! While availability may vary, you may stumble on architectural gems or quirky vintage finds that can turn your home into a remarkable space full of charm and unique design details.

Check Out Online Marketplaces

Go on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and similar platforms to see if you can find items worth buying. There’s one catch: the quality may not be what the ad says, so always check the item’s condition before committing to a purchase.

Talk to Contractors

Ask contractors in your neighborhood or local builders if they have leftover materials they won’t be using.

There are various options to find surplus materials for your project

Tips for Buying and Using Surplus Materials

Do you want to make the most of the materials you’ve found? Don’t just load them in your truck and throw them in the garage, hoping everything will be fine.

• Inspect and assess: Check items for defects. If you need multiple units, confirm that they look the same and are consistent in quality.
• Store properly: Once purchased, keep materials covered in dry places and lifted from the ground to prevent warping or water damage.
• Adapt and modify: If a door or cabinet has different dimensions from what you need, trim them or use a filler to bring them to the desired size.
• Consider safety: Verify that structural materials meet code requirements. This is key if you’re buying electrical, plumbing, and load-bearing components.

Need Surplus Materials? Builders Surplus Has Them

If you’re looking for affordable home renovation materials, make Builders Surplus your go-to.

Visit our stores to find:

• Cheap windows
• Budget-friendly exterior double doors
• Reasonably priced wrought-iron doors
• Value-packed bathroom and kitchen essentials

Receiving new inventory daily and having friendly consultants ready to assist, we’ll help you explore our in-stock options and move your project forward.

Don’t wait weeks for custom orders. Visit Builders Surplus

Surplus Building Materials: FAQs

Need more answers? We have them.

Are surplus materials safe for home use?

Yes, surplus materials are safe to use in homes provided they are inspected for structural damage.

Are surplus items sold with instructions or installation support?

Typically, surplus items don’t have instructions or installation support. That’s why it’s key to shop from trusted suppliers like Builders Surplus.

Can I return surplus materials?

Check out the store’s return policy. If the items are final sale, it might not be possible to return them.

What if I need more of the same product later?

Surplus stock changes daily, we recommend buying extra quantity upfront. This will both cover your future needs and allow you to save, as bulk sales offer bigger discounts.

Why pay full price? Check out what’s in stock at Builders Surplus