Frequently Asked Questions

Facing bricks are external decorative bricks designed for visible parts of a building, combining aesthetic appeal with long-lasting performance. Unlike structural engineering bricks (which are selected mainly for strength and low water absorption), facing bricks balance look, durability and weather resistance for walls, extensions, and facades.

DBM DIY offers various standard sizes:

65 mm bricks: The most common UK standard size for new builds and extensions.

73 mm bricks: Often used in older or period properties to match existing coursing lines.

This allows seamless integration or replacement work across different types of projects.

Facing bricks come in multiple styles, including:

Wirecut: Uniform and modern finish

Pressed: Smooth and precise

Stock: Less uniform shape for a traditional look
Handmade: Rustic, textured appearance

Each type suits different architectural and design preferences.

Facing bricks are available in a wide variety of colours and textures, such as:

Classic tones: Red, buff yellow, orange

Contemporary shades: Grey, anthracite, black

Multi-coloured or patterned finishes for unique visual appeal

Textures range from smooth and sleek to sandfaced or rustic for character and depth.

Facing bricks can be used below DPC in certain situations, but engineering bricks are often preferred in ground-contact or high-moisture areas due to superior water resistance and strength. Always consider project requirements and local building codes.

If you’re repairing or extending a property and want a colour/texture match, DBM DIY offers brick-matching support and expert advice to help you select the closest possible match to your existing wall.

DBM DIY provides nationwide delivery for bricks and related materials. Most orders are delivered within 2–5 working days, subject to availability and location.

• Extensive range of colours, textures, and styles
• Expert advice on specification and matching
• Suitable for a wide range of projects, from garden walls to full facades
• Competitive pricing with nationwide supply service

Facing bricks prioritise appearance and good durability for external walls.
Engineering bricks are built for maximum strength and low water absorption, making them ideal below damp proof course (DPC), foundations, or high-load structural areas.

We stock facing bricks, engineering bricks, concrete blocks,
and common bricks.

This depends on wall size and brick type. A standard guide is 60 bricks per square
metre.

General purpose cement is suitable for most brick and block work.

We offer a wide range of essential building materials including aggregates, cement, blocks, insulation, lintels, plasterboards, roofing materials, additives and liquids — ideal for construction, renovation, landscaping, and DIY projects of all sizes.

Yes — we provide bulk bags and trade-friendly sizes across many categories such as aggregates and core materials, making it cost-effective for large projects and builders.

Aggregates include materials like sand, gravel and crushed stone used as a base layer for concrete, foundations, drainage, and landscaping projects. They form a strong structural base for most builds.

We stock a variety of cement options including OPC cement, mortar mixes and rapid-setting bags, suitable for bricklaying, blockwork, rendering, and structural pours.

Here are some well-reviewed and locally trusted suppliers you might consider:

🏆 Featured Supplier (Highly Rated & Local)

• Darlaston Builders Merchants - Building Supplies West Brom – One of the Midlands’ most established and largest independent builders’ merchants, providing a wide range of materials with excellent local service and competitive pricing.
  

Outdoor porcelain combines the look of natural stone or wood with superior performance: it is stronger, more weather-resistant, easier to maintain and often more colour stable than stone or concrete alternatives.

Yes. Porcelain outdoor tiles are frost-resistant, low-absorption and highly durable, so they resist cracking, fading and damage from rain, freeze–thaw cycles and UV exposure — perfect for the UK’s changeable weather.

Most outdoor porcelain tiles have textured finishes and slip ratings (e.g., R11 or above), providing good traction even when wet — a key safety benefit around pools, steps and patios.

Outdoor porcelain is low-maintenance — usually just sweeping and occasional rinsing is enough. For deeper cleaning, a garden hose, mild detergent or low-pressure jet wash can restore shine without damaging the surface.

Outdoor porcelain is available in many sizes (e.g., 400×400mm up to 1200×600mm and more). Many outdoor tiles are 20mm thick or more, giving them strength and stability for exterior use.

Outdoor porcelain tiles are manufactured thicker, with textured surfaces and higher slip resistance ratings compared to indoor tiles, making them suitable for weather exposure and heavy foot traffic outdoors.

Garden paving is available in a wide range of materials, including:

• 
  Concrete paving slabs – affordable, durable, and versatile
  
• 
  Natural stone paving – such as sandstone, limestone, and slate
  
• 
  Outdoor porcelain paving – modern, low-maintenance, and slip-resistant
  
• 
  Block paving – ideal for driveways and paths
  
• 
  Decorative paving – for feature areas and landscaping projects
  

Each option offers different aesthetics, durability levels, and maintenance requirements.

Many paving options are textured or treated for slip resistance, especially outdoor porcelain and riven concrete slabs. Always check the slip-rating or surface finish if paving will be used in wet areas such as patios, steps, or near pools.

Garden paving slabs are available in a variety of sizes, including square, rectangular, and mixed-size packs. Common sizes range from 400×400mm to large-format slabs such as 900×600mm, depending on the material.

DIY installation is possible for experienced homeowners, especially with concrete slabs. However, professional installation is recommended for large patios, natural stone, or porcelain paving to ensure correct bedding, drainage, and long-term durability.

A solid base is essential. Most garden paving requires:

• A sub-base of compacted hardcore (MOT Type 1)
  
• A sharp sand or mortar bed
  
• Proper drainage and edge restraints
  

The base may vary depending on the paving material and intended use.

Common driveway paving options include:

• 
  Block paving – the most popular choice for driveways
  
• 
  Concrete driveway slabs – strong and cost-effective
  
• 
  Permeable paving – designed to manage surface water
  
• 
  Natural stone paving – premium appearance with high strength
  
• 
  Heavy-duty porcelain paving (where specified for driveways)
  

Each option varies in load-bearing capacity, appearance, and maintenance needs.

Block paving is widely considered the best all-round driveway solution because it is:

• 
  Strong and flexible under vehicle load
  
• 
  Easy to repair (individual blocks can be replaced)
  
• 
  Available in many colours and patterns
  

For heavier vehicles or commercial use, reinforced concrete or specialist driveway systems may be recommended.

Typical thickness requirements:

• 
  Block paving: Usually 50–60mm thick for domestic driveways
  
• 
  Concrete slabs: Heavy-duty slabs designed for vehicle loads
  
• 
  Sub-base: A minimum of 150–200mm MOT Type 1 hardcore is essential
  

Correct sub-base depth is just as important as the paving itself.

Common fencing types include:

• 
  Closeboard/Treated timber panels – classic, private and durable
  
• 
  Palisade fencing – secure and long-lasting
  
• 
  Composite fencing – low maintenance and weather-resistant
  
• 
  Mesh or panel fencing – ideal for gardens and pets
  
• 
  Decorative fencing – adds style or features
  

Each type is suitable for different security, aesthetic, and maintenance needs. (dbmdiy.com)

Decking options include:

• 
  Pressure-treated timber decking – durable, classic wooden look
  
• 
  Composite decking – low-maintenance, weatherproof, and long-lasting
  
• 
  Softwood or hardwood decking – premium natural wood finish
  

Decking sizes and profiles vary to suit different garden layouts.

Yes, many panels and decking boards are DIY-friendly, especially with clear installation guides.

However, professional installation is recommended for:

• 
  Complex layouts
  
• 
  Large areas
  
• 
  Ensuring correct ground preparation and level surfaces
  

Common gravel types include:

• 
  Pea gravel: Small, rounded stones, ideal for paths and decorative beds
  
• 
  Shingle gravel: Smooth, larger stones for driveways or patios
  
• 
  Crushed stone/aggregate: Angular, used for driveways and structural purposes
  
• 
  Decorative gravels: Coloured or textured stones for borders and landscaping features
  

Each type varies in size, colour, texture, and purpose. (dbmdiy.com)

Yes — gravels can be delivered across the UK, with bulk and trade options available. (dbmdiy.com)

The quantity depends on:

• Area size
  
• Gravel depth (usually 25–50mm for paths and 50–75mm for driveways)
  
• Gravel type and coverage efficiency
  

You can use online gravel calculators or consult DBM DIY experts for accurate estimates.

We supply a comprehensive range of timber products including:

• Skirting and architrave
  
• Sawn timber lengths
  
• Sheet materials such as plywood, OSB, MDF and chipboard
  
• Timber hangers and straps
  
• Window boards
  
• Stair parts
  
• Shiplap and cladding
  
• Planed timber
  
• Mouldings
  
• Floor boards
  
• Door frames

Sheet materials include plywood and other panel products such as OSB and loft chipboard boards — ideal for construction, joinery and general timber projects.

Examples of plywood stocked on the site include WBP (Weather & Boil Proof) plywood sheets in multiple thicknesses such as:

• 6 mm WBP plywood
  
• 12 mm WBP plywood
  
• 18 mm WBP plywood

These are versatile sheet materials suitable for cutting and fitting in various applications.

Timber and ply products span structural and decorative uses such as: framing, joinery, cladding, stair components, internal finishing (skirting, architrave), and general DIY or professional building work.

Yes — the Timber & Ply category includes decorative mouldings and trims like planed timber profiles, skirting and architrave to help finish interior spaces.

Yes — a variety of sawn timber lengths are available, which are ideal for framing, structural builds, and general timber construction work.

Yes — the page confirms that all timber products can be delivered nationwide across the UK with reliable delivery options available.

Yes — the site promotes Click & Collect availability from multiple superstore locations across the West Midlands.

The Drainage & Civils category includes:

• 
  Structural civils supplies
  
• 
  Drainage ACO channels
  
• 
  Gutter & downpipe systems
  
• 
  Manhole covers
  
• 
  Plumbing components
  
• 
  Soil drainage fittings
  
• 
  Underground drainage pipes and accessories
  
  These products are designed for robust infrastructure, service trenching, landscaping drainage and construction groundwork.
  

Yes — the range is suitable for both professional civil installations and home drainage or landscaping projects, meaning homeowners and tradespeople can source the right components for garden or driveway drainage works.

Many civils and drainage products such as manhole covers and underground drainage components are designed for durability and performance in both domestic and commercial settings when installed correctly.

Yes — like other DBM DIY categories, Drainage & Civils products can be delivered across the UK or collected via the merchant’s Click & Collect service from West Midlands stores.

Yes — the category includes basic plumbing components, such as soil fittings and waste pipes, that support drainage and waste installations in construction and renovation.

The Builders Equipment section includes several core categories:

• 
  Builders Equipment & Cleaning – site and maintenance tools
  
• 
  Fixings & Adhesives – for secure joints and bonds
  
• 
  Hand Tools – essential manual tools
  
• 
  Power Tools – electric or battery-powered tools
  
• 
  Power Tool Accessories – bits, blades, cores and more
  
• 
  Safety Wear – protective equipment for the job site

Fixings & Adhesives includes products used to secure and join materials, including solvents, glues, tapes, and hardware that ensure reliable installation and construction integrity.

The Hand Tools category offers a range of manual tools you need on site, such as saws, tape measures, hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, chisels and more — everything for everyday hands-on jobs.

Yes — in the Builders Equipment & Cleaning category, you’ll find products that help with site cleanup and equipment maintenance as part of the broader equipment range

Yes — the Builders Equipment range is designed for both trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts, combining robust construction tools with user-friendly options.

In Painting & Decorating you can find:

• Decorator tools such as scrapers, brushes, rollers & trays, paint trays and other decorating accessories
  
• Fillers for surface preparation
  
• Various types of paint including contract paints, gloss & undercoat, masonry paint, metal paint, emulsions and floor paint
  
• Paint cleaning materials and sandpaper & abrasives
  
• Protection sheeting to protect floors and furniture during decorating
  
• Wallpaper & wallpaper accessories for interior finishing
  
  This range supports both painting and decorating projects for interior and exterior surfaces.

Yes — the Painting & Decorating range includes decorator tools and accessories suited for both trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts across different project sizes.

Yes — you’ll find both decorating tools (like brushes and rollers) and materials such as paints, fillers, masking tape, wallpaper accessories and protective sheeting

The range includes:

• Contract paints — for larger jobs
  
• Gloss & undercoat — for wood and metalwork
  
• Masonry paint — for exterior walls
  
• Metal paint — for metal surfaces
  
• Emulsion paint — for interior walls
  
• Floor paint and spray paint for specialised uses

You can find:

• Scrapers — for prepping surfaces
  
• Brushes — different types for various paints
  Rollers & trays — for faster coverage
  
• Paint trays and other accessories to make decorating tasks easier and tidier

• Interior walls: Emulsion paint is commonly used for indoor walls and ceilings due to its smooth finish and easy application.
  
• Exterior walls: Masonry paint is designed for outdoor use, offering durability and resistance to weather conditions.
  

Choosing the correct paint type helps improve longevity and finish quality.

Rollers are ideal for large, flat surfaces because they:

• Cover more area quickly
  
• Provide an even finish
  
• Reduce visible brush marks
  

Brushes are better suited for edges, corners, trims, and detailed work. Most decorating projects benefit from using both together. https://www.dbmdiy.com/collections/rollers-trays

Proper wall preparation includes:

• Cleaning the surface to remove dust or grease
  
• Scraping off loose or peeling paint
  
• Filling cracks or holes with filler
  
• Sanding the surface smooth before painting
  

Good preparation ensures better paint adhesion and a longer-lasting finish.

Common decorating accessories include:

• Paint trays and roller sleeves
  
• Masking tape for clean edges
  
• Fillers for surface repairs
  
• Sandpaper and abrasives
  
• Scrapers and preparation tools
  

These accessories help improve efficiency and achieve a professional result.

The Bathrooms & Home Improvement range includes:

• Tiles — ceramic, porcelain, mosaic and decorative tiles for walls and floors
  
• Bathroom fixtures — baths, basins, toilets, shower trays, taps & mixers
  
• Bathroom furniture & accessories — drawer & cupboard units, mirrors, towel rails
• Wetroom solutions
• SPC Flooring — waterproof vinyl flooring for bathrooms and other rooms
  
• Acoustic wall panels and tile tools & accessories such as trims, spacers, adhesives and grout.

Yes — the Bathrooms & Home Improvement section combines both bathroom fittings (sanitaryware, taps, showers, units) and tiles & flooring options for a complete renovation or installation project.

You can choose from a wide variety of tiles including ceramic, porcelain and mosaic options designed for both walls and floors.

The category includes a range of shower-related products including:

• Shower doors & enclosures
  
• Shower trays
  
• Taps & mixers for showers and basins.

Yes — a selection of toilets, toilet basin combos and toilet seats are included in the Bathrooms range.

Yes — you can find essential tile tools and accessories like tile spacers, trims, tile drill bits, grout and adhesives to complete your tiling project.

Yes — SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) Flooring, which is a rigid, waterproof vinyl flooring suitable for bathrooms and high-traffic areas, is offered in this category.

Your order will be ready for collection within 2 working hours. Once you've placed an order online, and the products are in stock, you will receive an email confirmation. You will then need to wait for your 'ready to collect' text before you visit the selected branch. If products are not in stock this may take up to 3-5 working days.

You will receive an email confirmation when your order has been placed, and then the branch will contact you to let you know it’s ready for collection.
 
When collecting your order, please go straight to the trade counter inside the branch. You must bring the following when collecting your items:
 
• Present your 'collection text' and order number
• A valid form of ID, for example: driving license, passport, debit / credit card, or work photo ID card

You can collect on behalf of someone else, but must have the following with you:

• The order confirmation email, printed or on your phone, which has been forwarded from the customer who placed the order
• A valid form of ID, for example: driving license or passport
 
If you do not have the appropriate ID, then we will contact the customer who placed the order to confirm they are happy for the goods to be released.

After 24 hours of holding your goods, the branch will contact you to confirm you are still collecting them. If the goods are not collected within 5 working days, then this will result in a cancellation.

Click & Collect at Darlaston Builders Merchants is available. Please check the opening times of your local branch for collection details.

We generally supply and deliver to all West Midlands, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire. Delivery is generally within 3 – 5 days, using our own company vehicles. Please call if your address is not available online.

At Darlaston Builders Merchants we do charge for deliveries, and the charges may vary depending on a few things such as which type of customer you are, location and general order. Therefore, it is recommended while browsing our site to put your delivery postcode to have so what actual quotation on delivery charge.

If still unsure please contact one of our branches to find out your correct delivery charge.

Our delivery charges are calculated online or if unsure please call the branch.

Once you have placed your order, you will have 48 hours’ to let us know if you wish to change your delivery date.

We operate an ALL DAY DELIVERY SERVICE, meaning your order could arrive anytime between 7:30am and 5:00pm on the scheduled delivery date, depending on traffic conditions.

All deliveries from Darlaston Builders Merchants using a heavy goods vehicle will be made to the kerbside. We adhere to strict safety protocols, which may prevent us from delivering materials if the location is deemed unsafe.

During the checkout process, we will ask you to inform us of any potential obstructions near the delivery address that could hinder access for our vehicles. This includes factors such as narrow roads, weak bridges, height limitations, or any other restrictions. Failure to provide this information may result in delivery delays and could incur additional charges if the delivery needs to be rescheduled.