23 Dec 2025
At the Yard with Baz: Why Hardie® Plank Is a Hit with Everyday Builders
Baz is something of a local legend in the yard, and if you ask around, he’ll happily tell you why Hardie® Plank flies off the shelves at Matching Brick.
From busy housebuilders to weekend DIYers, customers rely on Baz and his team to help them choose the right colours, check they’ve got all the accessories, and make sure the job stays on schedule.
This conversation lifts the lid on what people are actually buying, the trends he’s seeing on site, and why Hardie® Plank has become one of his favourite products to recommend.
Firstly, what’s your role at Matching Brick and the supply of Hardie® Plank?
I am Barrie aka Baz aka the Hardie King Depot Manager for Fishponds.
From your experience at the depot, what makes Hardie® Plank a popular choice with trade customers?
Hardie® is popular because it’s very new and it’s what your neighbours don’t have. There are a wide range of colours in the two styles and it has all the necessary accessories to support simple installation. The house builders like it for creating variation on-site. It’s a good way to add difference by not using the same materials on each plot.
What kind of projects are you seeing Hardie® Plank being used for most often right now?
The biggest projects we have are from the house builders. They’re working on large sites with a high number of plots. Domestically, Hardie® Plank seems to be used mostly for summer houses and renewing dormer windows.
What are some of the key benefits or features that installers appreciate when they come to you for Hardie® Plank?
Installers like being able to collect all the items from us. This means jobs can be finished on time. It is also an easy product to use and install, which is extremely valuable on-site.
How does your team help customers get their Hardie® Plank orders right first time?
Firstly, we have a good range of stock here and in the other yards within the group, which means we can easily source what customers need. We also have samples available to help show customers the huge colour range.
Secondly, the take-off service is must - especially for the reps doing big site jobs!
Have you noticed any trends or design preferences emerging such as colours, finishes, or types of projects?
We stock the cedar mill finish and that’s definitely the most popular. I have not had any enquiries for the smooth plank…yet!
Find out more about Baz’s top pick, Hardie® Plank, here.
