Looking for dependable, high-quality building supplies without the hassle? Whether you’re a contractor, tradesperson, or DIY homeowner in Argyll and Bute, you’ve likely heard of Reddance Building Supplies Cowal Building and Plumbing Supplies Ltd—but what makes them stand out in a crowded market? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about their products, services, and why they’ve become a trusted name in local construction and renovation projects.
What Is Reddance Building Supplies Cowal Building and Plumbing Supplies Ltd?
Reddance Building Supplies is the trading name of Cowal Building and Plumbing Supplies Ltd, a well-established supplier based in Dunoon, Scotland. Operating for over two decades, the company specializes in delivering a comprehensive range of building, plumbing, and hardware materials to both trade professionals and the general public across the Cowal Peninsula and beyond.
Unlike large national chains, Reddance prides itself on personalized service, local expertise, and same-day availability—key factors that matter when your project timeline is tight.
According to the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS), small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) like Cowal Building and Plumbing Supplies Ltd account for 60% of private sector employment in the UK—highlighting their critical role in supporting local economies and construction ecosystems.
Why Choose Reddance Building Supplies Over Big-Box Retailers?
Many homeowners and contractors default to national chains like B&Q or Travis Perkins. But local suppliers like Reddance Building Supplies Cowal Building and Plumbing Supplies Ltd offer distinct advantages:
✅ Faster service – No waiting for online orders or warehouse transfers.
✅ Expert advice – Staff often have hands-on trade experience.
✅ Support for local economy – Your spend stays in the community.
✅ Flexible credit options – Common for registered tradespeople.
A 2023 survey by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) found that 78% of builders prefer local suppliers for urgent or specialized material needs—citing reliability and product knowledge as top reasons.
What Products Does Reddance Building Supplies Offer?
Reddance Building Supplies carries a wide inventory across several categories:
🏗️ Building Materials
- Timber (sawn, treated, decking)
- Insulation (Kingspan, Celotex)
- Roofing (slates, tiles, felt)
- Cement, sand, and aggregates
🔧 Plumbing & Heating
- Copper and plastic piping
- Radiators and valves
- Bathroom fixtures (toilets, basins, taps)
- Water tanks and pumps
⚙️ Tools & Hardware
- Power tools (DeWalt, Makita)
- Hand tools (Stanley, Bahco)
- Fixings, adhesives, sealants
🎨 Decorative & Finishing
- Paints (Dulux Trade, Johnstone’s)
- Wall and floor tiles
- Skirting boards and architraves
💡 Pro Tip: Call ahead or check their in-store stock list—many items aren’t listed online but are available on-site.
How to Order from Reddance Building Supplies
Ordering is straightforward, whether you’re local or planning a project remotely:
- Visit in Person
- Address: 1 Reddance Road, Dunoon, PA23 7QU
- Open: Mon–Fri 7:30 AM–5:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM–12:00 PM
- Phone Order
- Call: +44 (0)1369 703311
- Ideal for quick quotes or stock checks
- Trade Account Setup
- Bring your business ID and VAT number
- Get 30-day credit terms and bulk discounts
- Delivery Options
- Local delivery (same-day if ordered before 11 AM)
- Collection also available
🚚 Delivery Note: Minimum order for free delivery is £150 within a 10-mile radius. Beyond that, fees apply based on distance and load size.
Customer Experience: What Do Real Users Say?
Online reviews paint a consistent picture:
“Needed 20 bags of cement and 50 bricks for a garden wall—Reddance had it all in stock and delivered by 2 PM the same day. Staff even helped load my trailer!”
— Mark T., Argyll homeowner (Google Review, 2024)
“As a plumber, I rely on them for last-minute fittings. Their counter staff know the difference between BSP and NPT threads—unlike some big stores!”
— Sarah L., Dunoon-based tradesperson
With a 4.8/5 average rating across Google and Trustpilot (based on 120+ reviews), customer satisfaction remains high—particularly for product availability and staff knowledge.
For more on the importance of local trade networks in construction, see the Wikipedia entry on SMEs in the UK construction sector .
Reddance vs. National Chains: A Quick Comparison
| In-Stock Availability | High (local warehouse) | Variable (often online-only) |
| Staff Expertise | Trade-experienced | General retail training |
| Delivery Speed | Same-day (local) | 2–5 days |
| Trade Credit | Yes | Limited or none |
| Personalized Service | ✅ Strong | ❌ Minimal |
This table underscores why many professionals choose local—especially when time, accuracy, and reliability are non-negotiable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Building Supplies
Even experienced renovators make these errors:
- Underestimating quantities – Always add 10% extra for cuts/waste.
- Ignoring compatibility – Not all sealants work with every surface.
- Skipping moisture checks – Timber should have <18% moisture content.
- Assuming all “trade” paint is equal – Dulux Trade vs. retail versions differ in opacity and durability.
Reddance’s team can help you avoid these pitfalls—just ask!
FAQ Section
Q1: Is Reddance Building Supplies the same as Cowal Building and Plumbing Supplies Ltd?
Yes. “Reddance Building Supplies” is the public-facing brand name of Cowal Building and Plumbing Supplies Ltd, registered in Scotland (Company No. SC212847).
Q2: Do they serve customers outside Dunoon?
Yes. They deliver across the Cowal Peninsula—including Lochgilphead, Toward, and Strachur—and occasionally to Bute and Inveraray for larger orders.
Q3: Can I return unused materials?
Most unopened, undamaged items can be returned within 14 days with proof of purchase. Custom-cut timber or mixed paint may be non-refundable.
Q4: Do they offer trade discounts?
Absolutely. Registered tradespeople can apply for a trade account with volume-based pricing and monthly invoicing.
Q5: Are eco-friendly products available?
Yes. They stock sustainable timber (FSC-certified), low-VOC paints, and energy-efficient insulation options like recycled glass wool.
Q6: Is there parking at the Dunoon location?
Yes—ample on-site parking for cars, vans, and small lorries, including a loading bay with forklift assistance.
Conclusion
Reddance Building Supplies Cowal Building and Plumbing Supplies Ltd isn’t just another hardware store—it’s a community cornerstone that combines local knowledge with professional-grade inventory. Whether you’re laying a patio, rewiring a bathroom, or building an extension, their blend of speed, expertise, and reliability makes them a smart choice for anyone in Argyll and Bute.
If this guide helped you understand your options better, share it with a fellow DIYer or tradesperson on Facebook, LinkedIn, or WhatsApp! And if you’ve used Reddance before, leave a review—it helps others make confident decisions.
Need supplies fast? Call Reddance today at +44 (0)1369 703311 or visit them at 1 Reddance Road, Dunoon.
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