As a contractor, managing business costs and making sure that you always have the materials you need on hand are a must when it comes to keeping projects on track. One of the products you'll likely use frequently in your projects is silicone sealant. Installing or repairing windows, doors, kitchens, bathroom fixtures, and other general tasks make silicone sealant invaluable. But, when does it make sense to buy your materials in bulk?

Let's take a look at a few benefits and considerations to keep in mind if you need help deciding on whether you need bulk silicone sealant.

Benefits of Buying Silicone Sealant in Bulk

Due to its flexibility and durability, silicone sealant is an essential material for many construction projects. It enables buildings to handle stress and movement and keeps both hot and cold air from entering a space through gaps, cracks, or joints. Because it’s so commonly used, buying in bulk can be beneficial in several ways.

Cost Savings

Buying your company's silicone sealant in bulk usually means you'll be paying a lower cost per unit. Most of the time, suppliers offer discounts for larger purchases, which can greatly reduce your overall silicone sealant expenses. In addition to saving money over time, purchasing larger quantities of your supplies at once may also cut down on shipping costs. You'll need fewer deliveries and several money-saving shipping options exist for transporting bulk orders.

Constant Availability

Having a significant supply of silicone sealant means that you and your team won't be facing project delays as you wait for new materials to arrive. This can be incredibly helpful when you're working on a time-sensitive project. Sometimes, construction projects can call for more of a certain material than anticipated. So, rather than risk running out mid-project, it's a good idea to have plenty of backup silicone sealant on hand.

Consistent Performance

Should you decide to purchase in bulk, you can ensure that the silicone sealant you use across your projects comes from the same place. It's all made using the same formula and produces the same results each time your team uses it. This can help your company maintain consistent quality when delivering on projects.

Efficient Inventory Management

Keeping track of your company's inventory can be simplified when you purchase certain materials in bulk. Doing so makes it so that your team doesn't have to spend as much time placing orders and can instead focus on the tasks at hand. Further, bulk purchases usually result in less packaging, which can help your company reduce waste. It's a good way to make your work a bit more environmentally friendly.

When to Consider Bulk Silicone Sealant Purchases

How do you know if your company would be better off ordering silicone sealant in bulk, though? There are several situations where buying larger quantities of certain building materials would be a smart investment. For example:

Upcoming Large Projects

If your company is facing multiple large projects on the horizon, buying your silicone sealant in bulk can ensure that your team is prepared for any supply-related challenges ahead. Plan out the total volume of silicone sealant you're going to need for each project. Then, to determine whether bulk ordering is a good option, compare the normal price you pay against your supplier's bulk pricing options.

Frequent Use

For contractors and construction teams who use silicone sealant on a regular basis, it's a good idea to calculate monthly or even quarterly usage. If your company uses a significant amount of this material, the savings you can generate from bulk purchasing can really add up.

Supply and Pricing Conditions

Prices for materials and their availability from suppliers can fluctuate, and if you happen to notice either increasing prices or decreasing availability, it might be wise to buy in bulk. While it's essential to make sure that your team always has the supplies they need available, it's also beneficial to save until prices stabilize.

Storage Area

Silicone sealant typically has a long shelf life, but it needs to be stored properly to keep it in its ideal condition. If you have adequate space to store large quantities without compromising the integrity of your sealant, buying in bulk might be the best option for your company. Take a look at your storage area to determine whether cases of sealant tubes or 1-5 gallon pails would be most appropriate.

Deciding whether your team needs silicone sealant in bulk depends on several things, including your projects ahead, how much product you typically use, and whether you have the space to store larger quantities. For some contractors, the benefits that come with bulk ordering make it a smart purchasing decision. Take time to evaluate your company's specific needs and circumstances. This way, you have everything you need to make an informed decision.