The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF), which compiled the figures, said sales of lightside products were stronger (7.6% increase) than heavyside (3.3% growth).
The strongest sales rises were reported north of the Humber and in Wales, while the East Midlands and East Anglia had the lowest growth.
“The BMF’s May sales indicators reflect the current buoyant housing market, both in new build and refurbishment work,” said BMF secretary Peter Matthews.
Figures are compiled every month from sales turnover information supplied by a representative sample of merchant member companies covering both trade and retail sales. National groups are excluded.
