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BS-11, building supplies

Second Hand Building Materials From Reclaim and Demolition Yards

Second hand building materials: reclaimed bricks, roof sheets, tiles, doors, windows and timber. Send one free request and local reclaim yards quote you.

Supplies
Second Hand Building Materials
Quotes from
Building-supply merchants
Area
All nine provinces
Cost to you
Free, with no obligation
Stacks of reclaimed clay bricks, old timber beams and used doors at a South African demolition yard
Stacks of reclaimed clay bricks, old timber beams and used doors at a South African demolition yard

Second hand building materials can cut costs on outbuildings, renovations and character homes, and keep good bricks, timber and fittings out of landfill. They are also a practical way to match old bricks, tiles and doors on an existing house. BuildingContractors.co.za doesn't sell materials. Tell us what you are looking for and where you are, and we pass your request to independent demolition contractors, reclaim yards and building suppliers in your area, who quote you directly. The request is free and there is no obligation to accept any quote.

What 2nd hand building materials are available

Stock depends on what has been demolished recently, but 2nd hand building materials commonly include:

  • Reclaimed bricks: old clay stock and face bricks, cleaned of mortar
  • Roofing: used IBR and corrugated sheets, concrete and clay roof tiles
  • Timber: beams, rafters, floorboards and oregon pine
  • Doors and windows: timber and steel frames, doors and burglar bars
  • Steel and fittings: sections, gates, sanitaryware, basins and kitchen units

Where reclaimed materials make sense

Reclaimed face bricks and old timber are prized for their character in renovations, braai areas and feature walls. Used sheets and tiles suit sheds, carports and repairs, and secondhand doors and windows are useful for outbuildings and backyard rooms. Second hand stock is also a practical way to match old roof tiles or bricks on an existing house. For new structural work, though, an engineer or building inspector may want proof of strength, so reused bricks and timber are often kept to non-structural or lightly loaded uses.

Check before you buy

  • Inspect stock in person, as batches are often mixed in size and colour
  • Look for rot, borer and splits in timber, and rust holes in sheeting
  • Check that bricks are fully cleaned and not crumbling or soft
  • Ask how many units are available so you don't run short halfway
  • Avoid old asbestos cement roof sheets, gutters and pipes, which must not be reused and need licensed removal

Old painted items may also carry lead paint, so take care when sanding.

Finding used building materials near me

Searching for used building materials near me usually turns up demolition yards, reclaim dealers and contractors clearing a site. Stock moves fast, so describe exactly what you need, with sizes and quantities, and how flexible you are on colour and condition. Ask whether prices include cleaning, loading and delivery, and whether the yard can hold stock for you. If you are building, check with your builder before buying so the materials suit the plans.

Comparing second hand building materials prices

Material prices change with demand, transport costs and quantity. When quotes arrive, check:

  • Exact product: type, size, grade or strength, and the SANS mark where one applies.
  • Quantity: per unit, per pallet, per m³ or per load, and whether there is a minimum order.
  • Delivery: the delivery charge, offloading, and access for a large truck or crane truck.
  • VAT and validity: whether the price includes VAT and how long it is held.

What to include in your request

  • Exactly what you need, with sizes and quantities
  • Photos of items you want to match on an existing building
  • How flexible you are on colour, size and condition
  • Whether cleaning, loading and delivery are needed
  • Delivery address and when you need the materials

Frequently asked questions

Do you sell second hand building materials?
No. BuildingContractors.co.za is a free quote-request service. We pass your request to independent reclaim yards, demolition contractors and building suppliers near you, who quote you directly. There is no charge for the request and no obligation to accept any quote.
Can I use second hand bricks for a new house?
Sometimes, but load-bearing walls must meet SANS 10400, and an engineer or building inspector may ask for proof of strength. Reclaimed bricks are widely used for boundary walls, braai areas, cladding and feature walls. Ask your builder or engineer before buying for structural work.
Are used roof sheets worth buying?
Used sheets can be good value for sheds, carports and temporary buildings if they are straight, free of rust holes and long enough. Old screw holes need sealing. For a house roof, new sheeting usually performs better. Never buy or reuse old asbestos cement sheets.
How do I find reclaimed materials that match my house?
Take photos and measurements of the bricks, tiles, doors or windows you want to match and include them in your request. Reclaim yards can then check their stock or keep an eye out for suitable items from upcoming demolitions. Allow time, as exact matches can take a while.

Second Hand Building Materials by province

Second Hand Building Materials by city and town

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