Savoytimber.com Review

Based on checking the website, Savoytimber.com appears to be a legitimate online retailer specializing in timber, decking, worktops, and related DIY products primarily serving the UK market.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Website Legitimacy: Appears legitimate with physical store locations and verified customer feedback.
• Product Range: Focuses on timber, MDF, decking, and worktops.
• Customer Service: Offers phone support, in-store advice, and a help/advice section.
• Delivery: Free national delivery on orders over £500, with potential surcharges for certain postcodes.
• Key Features: Price Match Guarantee, Cut-To-Size service, Click & Collect.
• Payment Security: Claims to use industry-leading payment protection software SagePay.
• Transparency: Provides contact number, store locations, and terms for services like delivery and price match.
• Ethical Consideration: Sells standard construction and DIY materials. no apparent issues from an ethical standpoint in Islam, as long as transactions are free from interest riba and involve clear, non-deceptive terms.

Savoytimber.com presents itself as a long-standing, family-run business established in 1952, aiming to make DIY projects easier for its customers. The website highlights several customer-centric features such as a “Cut-To-Size” service for timber products, a “Price Match Guarantee,” and “Click & Collect” options from its four physical stores across the North of England. They also emphasize “Honest Informed DIY Advice” available in-store or over the phone. While the site promises “Free National Delivery On orders over £500,” it’s crucial to note the surcharges apply to certain postcodes caveat, which users should investigate before purchasing. Payment options include online via SagePay, phone orders, and pay links. For those in the market for timber and related building materials, Savoytimber.com offers a comprehensive selection with various support services.

Here are some excellent alternatives for timber and DIY supplies:

• The Home Depot:
  • Key Features: Extensive range of building materials, tools, and home improvement products. often offers workshops and tool rentals.
  • Average Price: Varies widely depending on products. generally competitive.
  • Pros: Huge inventory, widespread physical locations, various services, reliable customer support.
  • Cons: Can be overwhelming for new DIYers, some products might be contractor-grade.
• Lowe’s:
  • Key Features: Comprehensive selection of lumber, hardware, and home renovation supplies. strong online presence with delivery and in-store pickup.
  • Average Price: Comparable to Home Depot. competitive pricing.
  • Pros: Good customer service, frequent sales, diverse product categories for any home project.
  • Cons: Store layouts can vary, some specialized items might require online ordering.
• Menards:
  • Key Features: Large midwestern US chain offering building materials, appliances, and general merchandise. known for rebates.
  • Average Price: Often very competitive, especially with their rebate program.
  • Pros: Wide variety, good deals through rebates, helpful staff.
  • Cons: Primarily in the Midwest, rebate process can be cumbersome.
• 84 Lumber:
  • Key Features: Leading supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and services for the residential and commercial construction industries.
  • Average Price: Geared towards contractors, but individual sales are possible. pricing is competitive for bulk.
  • Pros: High-quality materials, specialized services for builders, knowledgeable staff.
  • Cons: Less consumer-friendly than big box stores, fewer retail locations.
• Ganahl Lumber:
  • Key Features: Oldest lumber company in California, offering a wide range of lumber, hardware, and building materials. known for quality and service.
  • Average Price: Mid to high-range, reflecting quality and specialized stock.
  • Pros: Excellent quality timber, expert advice, great for specific or higher-grade needs.
  • Cons: Primarily West Coast presence, may be pricier for basic items.
• ProBuild:
  • Key Features: One of the largest suppliers of building materials in the U.S., serving professional builders and remodelers.
  • Average Price: Varies, typically for larger orders. competitive for professional-grade materials.
  • Pros: Extensive product catalog, caters to professional needs, strong distribution network.
  • Cons: More focused on contractors, less accessible for small DIY projects.
• Timber:
  • Key Features: General search term for various timber suppliers online, allowing for a broader comparison of options from different local and national providers.
  • Average Price: Highly variable depending on supplier and type of timber.
  • Pros: Maximize options and competitive pricing by exploring many vendors.
  • Cons: Requires more research to vet individual suppliers, quality can vary.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Savoytimber.com Review & First Look

When into a website review, especially for a business that’s been around since 1952, the initial impression matters.

Savoytimber.com presents itself as a solid, established entity in the timber and DIY supplies market.

The homepage immediately highlights ongoing “AMAZING CLEARANCE OFFER!!!” on solid compact worktops, drawing attention to potential savings.

This kind of direct promotional messaging is common and effective in e-commerce.

Website Design and User Experience

The site’s design is clean and functional, prioritizing ease of navigation.

Key sections like “Shop Now” for different product categories Timber, MDF Skirting & Architraves, Decking are prominently featured with clear calls to action.

The top navigation bar includes essential links such as “Your Account,” “Stores,” “Call,” “Search,” and “Basket,” ensuring that core functionalities are readily accessible.

This intuitive layout helps users quickly find what they need.

• Clear Categorization: Products are well-categorized into timber, MDF, and decking, simplifying the browsing experience.
• Accessibility: Links like “Skip to Content” and a visible phone number for sales and advice enhance usability.
• Mobile Responsiveness: While not explicitly tested, a modern e-commerce site like this should ideally be optimized for mobile viewing, allowing users to shop on the go.

Initial Impressions of Trustworthiness

Several elements on the homepage contribute to an immediate sense of trustworthiness.

The “Excellent 4.5/5 Verified Customer Feedback” badge, linking to Reviews.co.uk, provides external validation. Greenmotion.com Review

Stating “Open 7 Days a week” and providing a “Free Delivery On Orders Over £500” along with a “Price Match Guarantee” all build confidence.

These features suggest a customer-focused approach and a commitment to competitive pricing and service.

• Social Proof: The verified customer feedback is a strong indicator of legitimacy. Over 90% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business or making a purchase, according to a recent BrightLocal survey, making this a crucial element for trust.
• Transparency in Policies: Clearly stated policies like “Free Delivery” with a clear disclaimer about surcharges and “Price Match Guarantee” demonstrate transparency.
• Physical Presence: The mention of “4 stores across the North Of England” and “Click & Collect” further grounds the online store in a tangible reality, which is often reassuring for customers wary of purely online operations.

Savoytimber.com Features

Savoytimber.com boasts several features designed to cater to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals seeking quality timber and building materials.

These features aim to simplify the purchasing process and provide value-added services.

Comprehensive Product Range

The website focuses on core building materials, which allows them to offer depth in these categories rather than spreading too thin.

They emphasize the quality of their timber, stating it’s “Slow grown in Scandinavia for professional quality,” which suggests a commitment to sourcing good materials.

• Timber: Includes Redwood & Whitewood PAR Planed All Round and T&G Tongue & Groove. This covers a broad spectrum of common timber needs.
• MDF Skirting & Architraves: Essential for finishing interiors, primed for convenience.
• Decking: Unbeatable deals on timber and garden decking, indicating a focus on outdoor projects.

Value-Added Services

Beyond just selling products, Savoy Timber offers services that enhance the customer experience and solve common DIY challenges.

These services distinguish them from generic online retailers.

• Cut-To-Size Service: This is a significant convenience for customers, saving them time and effort. “Our expert staff will cut your product to exact sizes, saving you time and effort – DIY made Easy.” This feature directly addresses a common pain point in DIY projects.
• Price Match Guarantee: This policy reassures customers that they are getting a competitive price. “In the unlikely event that you find a cheaper price, we will always match like-for-like prices – please see terms and conditions.” This demonstrates confidence in their pricing strategy.
• Click & Collect: With four stores, this option provides flexibility for customers who prefer to inspect products or avoid delivery fees. “Just order online and pick up in a store of your choice.” This caters to varying customer preferences.

Customer Support and Advice

The emphasis on “Honest Informed DIY Advice In Store Or On The Phone” highlights their commitment to supporting customers throughout their projects. Zaminer.com Review

This personalized assistance can be invaluable, especially for less experienced DIYers.

• 7-Day Availability: “Open 7 Days a week” signifies strong customer accessibility.
• Dedicated Phone Line: “For Sales & Advice Call: 0345 0268 799” provides direct contact.
• Help & Advice Section: A dedicated section for guidance linked from the main navigation further supports customers. This resource can contain articles, guides, or FAQs to help users make informed decisions.

Savoytimber.com Pros & Cons

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of Savoytimber.com is crucial for potential customers.

While the website presents many appealing features, a balanced view considers both the advantages and any potential drawbacks.

Pros of Savoytimber.com

• Established Reputation: Being a family-run business founded in 1952 lends significant credibility and suggests decades of experience in the timber industry. This longevity often translates to reliability and expertise.
• Specialized Expertise: Their focus on timber, decking, and worktops means they likely have deep knowledge and a good selection within these specific categories, offering more than general hardware stores.
• Value-Added Services:
  • Cut-To-Size: This service is a major advantage, saving customers time, reducing waste, and ensuring precise dimensions for projects. It’s a key differentiator.
  • Price Match Guarantee: Provides assurance that customers are getting a competitive deal, encouraging trust and discouraging price comparison shopping elsewhere once a decision to purchase is made.
  • Click & Collect: Offers flexibility and convenience, especially for customers living near one of their four Northern England stores, allowing them to save on delivery costs and collect items quickly.
• Strong Customer Support:
  • 7-Day Opening: Availability seven days a week for inquiries and collections is highly convenient.
  • Direct Phone Line: Easy access to sales and advice through a dedicated hotline.
  • In-Store Advice: The promise of “Honest Informed DIY Advice” in-store or over the phone adds a valuable layer of personal assistance.
• Transparent Delivery Policy: While there are surcharges for certain postcodes, the general policy of “Free Delivery On Orders Over £500” is clearly stated, allowing customers to plan their purchases accordingly.

Cons of Savoytimber.com

No service is without its limitations, and Savoytimber.com has areas where potential customers might find issues or where improvements could be considered.

• Geographic Limitation: While they offer “National Delivery,” their physical store presence and “Click & Collect” options are limited to the North of England Preston, Blackpool, Wigan, which might disadvantage customers in other regions for immediate pickups or in-person advice. This can impact customer reach, as roughly 40% of the UK population lives outside their direct store vicinity according to UK population distribution data.
• Delivery Surcharges: Although free delivery is available for larger orders, the mention of “surcharges apply to certain postcodes” introduces an element of uncertainty or additional cost for some customers, which might only become clear later in the checkout process. This requires users to investigate further, potentially causing friction.
• Limited Product Breadth: While they specialize in timber, decking, and worktops, customers looking for a wider array of general hardware, tools, or other home improvement products might need to visit multiple retailers. This isn’t necessarily a “con” for their target audience, but it’s a consideration for those seeking a one-stop shop.
• Online Information Depth: While they have a “Help & Advice” section, the extent of detailed guides, tutorials, or project inspiration on their website might not be as extensive as some larger DIY chains that invest heavily in content marketing. This could be a missed opportunity for engaging and educating customers.
• Potential for Out-of-Stock Items: The “Whilst stocks last!!!” on clearance offers suggests that popular discounted items might sell out quickly, which could lead to customer disappointment if they miss out.

Savoytimber.com Alternatives

When considering alternatives to Savoytimber.com, it’s essential to look for retailers that offer similar products timber, decking, worktops while potentially providing different advantages in terms of location, price, or service.

The UK market for DIY and building materials is robust, with several major players and specialized suppliers.

Major National DIY Retailers

These large chains offer extensive ranges, nationwide delivery, and often have physical stores across the UK, making them highly accessible.

• B&Q:
  • Key Features: One of the largest home improvement and garden retailers in the UK. Offers a vast selection of timber, building materials, tools, kitchens, bathrooms, and garden supplies. Strong online presence with home delivery and widespread click-and-collect options.
  • Advantages: Very broad product range, competitive pricing, frequent promotions, strong customer support, and numerous physical stores across the UK. Often considered a one-stop shop for most DIY projects.
  • Considerations: While comprehensive, the sheer size can sometimes make finding specific items daunting.
• Wickes:
  • Key Features: Specializes more in building materials and trade supplies, while also catering to DIY enthusiasts. Known for its strong range of timber, sheet materials, kitchens, and bathrooms. Offers professional advice and services.
  • Advantages: Strong trade focus often means good quality materials, competitive trade pricing, and quick availability for common building supplies. Often preferred by those undertaking larger renovation projects.
  • Considerations: Product range might be slightly less diverse in general home decor compared to B&Q, focusing more on the construction side.
• Screwfix:
  • Key Features: Primarily focused on tools, hardware, and trade essentials, but also carries timber, decking accessories, and other building materials. Known for fast click-and-collect services often within minutes and extensive stock at trade counters.
  • Advantages: Extremely fast service, particularly for click-and-collect. Competitive pricing on trade essentials and good quality tools. Their product range, while focused, is deep within its categories.
  • Considerations: Less emphasis on large timber cuts or bespoke services. more suited for smaller timber purchases or accessories rather than large structural timber.

Specialized Timber Merchants

For customers requiring specific types of timber, large quantities, or highly specialized advice, dedicated timber merchants can be a superior choice. Location-tool.com Review

• Travis Perkins / Keyline:
  • Key Features: Part of a large group that caters extensively to the building trade. Offers a huge selection of timber, sheet materials, aggregates, and heavy building supplies. Strong delivery capabilities and trade accounts.
  • Advantages: Professional-grade materials, often better quality and variety for structural timber. Excellent for bulk orders. Strong network of trade counters.
  • Considerations: Less consumer-friendly for small DIY projects. pricing might be geared towards trade accounts.
• Local Independent Timber Yards:
  • Key Features: Many smaller, local timber yards offer personalized service, unique stock, and in-depth knowledge specific to their region or specialty timbers. They often have better flexibility for custom cuts or unusual requests.
  • Advantages: Expert advice, personalized service, potentially higher quality or specific niche timbers, support for local businesses. Can often be more flexible with delivery or cutting requirements.
  • Considerations: Prices can vary, stock might be less extensive than national chains, and delivery areas are typically localized.

Online-Only Timber Suppliers

For those who prioritize convenience and competitive pricing without the need for physical interaction, online-only suppliers can be a good option.

• Timbersource:
  • Key Features: An online timber merchant offering a wide range of hardwoods, softwoods, and specialist timbers. Provides online ordering with nationwide delivery.
  • Advantages: Specialization in a wider variety of timber types, potentially offering more exotic or specific grades. Convenience of online ordering.
  • Considerations: Lacks the physical presence for in-person inspection or immediate collection.

When choosing an alternative, consider your specific needs: project size, required material type, budget, location for collection, and desired level of customer interaction and advice.

For Muslims, always ensure that any transaction is clear, free from interest riba, and involves fair exchange of goods for money.

How to Cancel Savoytimber.com Subscription

Savoytimber.com primarily operates as an e-commerce store for one-off purchases of timber and DIY products, rather than a subscription-based service.

Therefore, the concept of a “subscription” in the traditional sense like a monthly recurring payment for content or goods doesn’t typically apply to Savoytimber.com’s core business model.

However, users might consider aspects like:

• Marketing Email Subscriptions: If you’ve opted into their newsletter or promotional emails, you might want to unsubscribe from these communications.
• Account Registration: While not a subscription, you might wish to close or manage your registered customer account.
• Order Cancellations: This is a more common scenario, where you need to cancel a pending order.

Canceling Marketing Email Subscriptions

If you’re receiving promotional emails from Savoytimber.com and wish to stop them, the process is usually straightforward and standard for most online retailers.

• Locate the “Unsubscribe” Link: Every legitimate marketing email should contain an “Unsubscribe” link, typically found in the footer of the email.
• Click and Confirm: Clicking this link will usually take you to a preference page or ask for confirmation to unsubscribe. Follow the prompts. It might take a few days for the changes to take effect, so you might receive one or two more emails after unsubscribing.
• Mark as Spam Last Resort: If you cannot find an unsubscribe link or if the emails continue after unsubscribing, marking them as spam in your email client can help, but it’s less ideal than a proper unsubscribe.

Managing or Deleting Your Account

While the website offers “Register” and “Sign In” options, there isn’t typically an obvious “delete account” button directly on the website for many e-commerce sites.

If you wish to close your account, you would generally need to contact their customer service. Millies.ie Review

• Contact Customer Service: The most reliable way to inquire about account deletion or management is to contact Savoy Timber directly.
  • Phone: Call their Sales & Advice line at 0345 0268 799.
  • Email/Contact Form: Look for a “Contact Us” section on their website, which might provide an email address or a contact form for inquiries.
• Provide Details: Be prepared to provide your account details email address, name to help them locate your account.
• Reason for Deletion: While not always required, stating your reason for deletion can sometimes streamline the process e.g., “I no longer need an account as I’ve moved house”.

Canceling an Order

If you’ve placed an order and wish to cancel it before it’s dispatched, time is usually of the essence.

• Check Order Status: First, sign into your account on Savoytimber.com and check the status of your order. If it’s already dispatched, cancellation might not be possible, and you would then need to follow their returns policy.
• Immediate Contact: Call Savoy Timber’s customer service line 0345 0268 799 as soon as possible. Phone calls are generally the most effective way to cancel an order quickly before it processes for shipping.
• Provide Order Details: Have your order number and relevant personal details ready to expedite the cancellation request.
• Confirm Cancellation: Ensure you receive confirmation of the cancellation, ideally in writing email.

It’s important to review Savoytimber.com’s specific terms and conditions regarding order cancellations and returns, as these policies can vary.

Savoytimber.com Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure at Savoytimber.com involves looking at their product costs, delivery charges, and any special offers or guarantees that influence the final price.

The website highlights a commitment to affordability and competitive pricing, reinforced by their “Price Match Guarantee.”

Product Pricing

The homepage prominently features “AMAZING CLEARANCE OFFER!!! Solid Compact Worktops from £199 reduced from £380.00.” This immediately signals that Savoy Timber offers discounts and promotions.

• Competitive Pricing: As an established player in the market, Savoy Timber aims to remain competitive. Their “Price Match Guarantee” matching like-for-like prices suggests they are confident in their pricing strategy and willing to adjust if a competitor offers a better deal. This means customers can expect prices generally in line with or better than other major DIY retailers for similar quality products.
• Clearance and Deals: Regular clearance sales and special offers, as indicated by the worktop deal, provide opportunities for significant savings. These are often “whilst stocks last,” implying limited availability.
• Variety in Price Points: While specific prices for all products aren’t detailed on the homepage, a wide range of timber, MDF, and decking products typically means varying price points to suit different budgets and project scales. For instance, basic softwood timber will naturally be less expensive than premium hardwoods or specialized decking.

Delivery Charges

Delivery costs are a significant factor in the final price, especially for bulky items like timber.

• Free Delivery Threshold: Savoy Timber offers “Free National Delivery On Orders Over £500.” This is a strong incentive for larger purchases, potentially saving customers a substantial amount on shipping.
• Surcharges: Crucially, the website states “surcharges apply to certain postcodes.” This means that while delivery might be free for orders over £500, customers in remote or harder-to-reach areas might incur additional costs. It is essential for customers to check their postcode for potential surcharges before finalizing a large order.
• Smaller Order Delivery: For orders under £500, standard delivery charges would apply, though these are not explicitly detailed on the homepage. Customers would need to proceed to checkout or consult their delivery information page for precise costs based on their location and order size.

Additional Cost Considerations

Beyond the product and basic delivery, other elements can influence the total cost:

• Cut-To-Size Service: While advertised as a convenience, it’s not explicitly stated if this service incurs an additional charge or if it’s included with the product purchase. Typically, some retailers charge a small fee per cut, while others might include a certain number of cuts for free. Customers should clarify this during the ordering process.
• Payment Methods: While “Easy Ways To Pay” are listed online via SagePay, phone, pay links, there’s no mention of transaction fees. Generally, reputable retailers do not add fees for standard payment methods like debit/credit cards.
• Returns Policy Costs: If a customer needs to return an item, they should investigate if return shipping costs are borne by the customer or if a restocking fee applies, though this is outside the initial “pricing” of the product.

In summary, Savoytimber.com aims to be competitive, especially for larger orders, with a valuable price match guarantee.

However, potential customers should always check for specific delivery surcharges and any costs associated with value-added services like cutting. Vaishnavikhandkar.com Review

Savoytimber.com vs. Competitors

When evaluating Savoytimber.com against its competitors, it’s helpful to compare their strengths, target markets, and overall value propositions.

The UK DIY and building materials market is diverse, with major national chains, specialized merchants, and online-only retailers.

Savoytimber.com’s Position

Savoytimber.com positions itself as a long-standing, family-run business focusing on timber, decking, and worktops, with a strong emphasis on personalized service and convenience Cut-To-Size, Click & Collect. Their physical stores are concentrated in the North of England.

• Strengths:
  • Niche Specialization: Deep expertise in timber and related products.
  • Customer-Centric Services: Cut-To-Size, Price Match Guarantee, and personal DIY advice are strong selling points.
  • Established Reputation: Decades in business fosters trust.
  • Physical Presence: For customers in Northern England, the ability to visit stores, get advice, and use Click & Collect is a significant advantage.
• Limitations:
  • Geographic Concentration: Limited physical presence outside Northern England.
  • Product Breadth: Not a general hardware store. customers need to go elsewhere for tools, paints, or broader home improvement items.

Comparison with Major National Chains B&Q, Wickes

These are Savoy Timber’s biggest competitors due to their market share and national reach.

• B&Q and Wickes:
  • Advantages:
    • Vast Product Range: Offer everything from a single screw to full kitchen installations, tools, garden supplies, etc. This makes them a one-stop shop for most DIY projects.
    • National Coverage: Hundreds of stores across the UK, making them highly accessible for in-person shopping, returns, and click-and-collect nationwide.
    • Scale of Operations: Can often leverage bulk purchasing to offer competitive prices, and their online infrastructure is usually highly developed.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Less Specialized Service: While they offer advice, it might not be as in-depth or personalized as a dedicated timber merchant.
    • Product Quality Perception: Sometimes perceived as offering more general-grade materials compared to specialist suppliers.
  • Comparison Point: Savoy Timber’s Cut-To-Size service might be more specialized and efficient than what’s available at general DIY stores, which can vary by branch or be limited to certain materials. For specialized timber advice, Savoy Timber might excel.

Comparison with Trade Suppliers Travis Perkins, Jewson

These are geared more towards professional builders but also serve larger DIY projects.

• Travis Perkins / Jewson:
  * Professional-Grade Materials: Often stock higher grades or larger quantities of timber and building materials suitable for commercial projects.
  * Trade Accounts: Offer credit facilities and specialized pricing for professional builders.
  * Heavy Duty Delivery: Equipped for large-scale deliveries to construction sites.
  * Less Consumer-Friendly: Store layouts and service might be less tailored to the casual DIYer.
  * Minimum Order Sizes: May have higher minimum order requirements for certain materials or delivery.
  • Comparison Point: For large-scale timber procurement, these trade suppliers might offer better bulk pricing. However, for a single homeowner doing a decking project, Savoy Timber’s tailored services and retail focus might be more approachable.

Comparison with Online-Only Retailers e.g., Timbersource

• Online-Only Retailers:
  * Convenience: Shop from anywhere, anytime.
  * Wider Selection Sometimes: Can source from various suppliers globally without physical store constraints.
  * Potentially Lower Overhead: Might translate to competitive pricing.
  * No Physical Inspection: Cannot see the timber quality before purchase.
  * Returns Can Be Complex: Returning bulky items can be cumbersome and costly.
  * Lack of Immediate Advice: Reliance on online resources or phone/email support.
  • Comparison Point: Savoy Timber’s combination of online ordering with physical stores and personal advice offers a hybrid model that might appeal to customers who want the convenience of online shopping but appreciate the option for in-person support and inspection.

In conclusion, Savoytimber.com carves out a strong niche by combining the convenience of online shopping with the personalized service and expertise of a specialist timber merchant.

While it cannot compete with the sheer breadth or national physical presence of giants like B&Q, its focus on specific product categories and value-added services makes it a compelling choice, especially for customers in its regional catchment area or those prioritizing specialized timber needs. Milanartinstitute.com Review