📋 Data Accuracy Notice — All specifications on this page are based on publicly available information as of 2026. We welcome manufacturers to submit updated specifications directly to info@sjball.uk — we’ll update our data within 48 hours. We’re committed to accuracy, and we’re happy to be checked.
A Better Alternative to Howdens in Berkshire - 18mm Rigid Units, Direct to Homeowners, Delivered in 10 Working Days.
Made to Order
Rigid Built
Nationwide Delivery
Blum Soft Close
Why Berkshire Homeowners Choose SJB Trade Kitchens Over Howdens
Berkshire is known for its charming mix of property styles ranging from traditional cottages in Windsor to modern family homes in Bracknell and elegant townhouses in Reading. Homeowners in this diverse county demand kitchen solutions that not only fit their unique spaces but also offer excellent value and convenience. While Howdens is a popular name in the kitchen industry, many Berkshire residents are discovering the advantages of choosing SJB Trade Kitchens as their preferred supplier.
Understanding the Local Property Landscape in Berkshire
Berkshire features a wide variety of homes, including Victorian and Edwardian houses in areas such as Maidenhead and Newbury, alongside contemporary developments in Wokingham and Ascot. This variety means that kitchen designs must be flexible and adaptable to suit different room sizes and layouts. Many homes also require bespoke features to maximize space while maintaining a stylish aesthetic.
Neighborhoods like Crowthorne and Sandhurst often have period homes with smaller or irregularly shaped kitchens. Meanwhile, newer estates in Reading and Bracknell tend to favour open-plan living with larger kitchen areas. Homeowners in Berkshire need a kitchen supplier that can cater to these varying demands with tailored solutions and reliable delivery times.
The Howdens Trade-Only Model: Challenges for Berkshire Homeowners
Howdens operates on a trade-only basis, meaning that only registered builders, fitters, or tradespeople can place orders. For homeowners in Berkshire, this creates several hurdles. First, it is necessary to find a qualified tradesperson who is willing to work with Howdens, which can delay the project start date. Second, homeowners do not have direct control over the ordering process, which can lead to misunderstandings or errors in specification.
This trade-only model often results in increased costs and longer lead times. Homeowners may need to pay premiums to tradespeople to handle the ordering, and any changes or adjustments become more complicated. For busy Berkshire residents, this lack of transparency and autonomy can be frustrating.
How SJB Trade Kitchens Provides a Better Experience
SJB Trade Kitchens offers a unique alternative that directly addresses the issues faced by Berkshire homeowners with Howdens. By selling directly to homeowners, SJB removes the middleman, enabling customers to have full control over their kitchen purchase.
One significant benefit is the ability to order bespoke-sized units, which is critical for fitting kitchens into the diverse property types found in Berkshire. Whether it is a snug Victorian kitchen in Wokingham or a spacious modern design in Reading, SJB can tailor sizes to fit perfectly, something that is not always possible with Howdens standard sizes.
Another key advantage is the use of sturdy 18mm backs on all kitchen units. This adds durability and strength to the cabinets, ensuring long-lasting quality that Berkshire homeowners can rely on.
SJB Trade Kitchens also offers transparent pricing all year round, with costs typically 30-50 percent lower than Howdens. This means that residents of Berkshire can enjoy premium kitchen designs without the premium price tag.
Delivery times are a crucial consideration for any kitchen project. SJB guarantees a 10-day delivery window, allowing homeowners to plan renovations with confidence and avoid costly delays. This speedy service is especially valuable in busy markets such as Reading and Ascot, where project timelines are tight.
Unlike Howdens, SJB does not require customers to have a trade account. This means any homeowner can order directly without needing to involve a builder or fitter in the procurement process. This direct-to-customer approach simplifies the buying experience and reduces the risk of errors.
Local Support and Contact Information
Berkshire homeowners can benefit from expert advice and support when working with SJB Trade Kitchens. Although the showroom is located in Oldham, the knowledgeable team is available by phone on 0161 509 4221 to guide customers through product options, bespoke sizing requests, and pricing queries.
Steve from Altrincham, a key member of the SJB team, brings extensive experience in kitchen design and customer service. His expertise ensures that Berkshire residents receive personalised recommendations tailored to their home and budget.
Conclusion
For homeowners in Berkshire seeking kitchen solutions, SJB Trade Kitchens presents a compelling alternative to Howdens. By overcoming the trade-only barrier, offering bespoke sizing, using robust 18mm backs, providing transparent pricing, and guaranteeing quick 10-day delivery, SJB delivers an unmatched customer experience. Whether renovating a period property in Maidenhead or updating a modern home in Bracknell, Berkshire residents can trust SJB Trade Kitchens for quality, affordability, and convenience.
Howdens operates on a trade-only model. As a homeowner, you cannot walk into a Howdens depot and buy a kitchen. You need a builder or fitter with a Howdens trade account to order on your behalf. This creates a fundamental problem: you have no direct control over what is ordered, no ability to compare prices yourself, and no direct relationship with the supplier. Your fitter marks up the Howdens price before passing it on to you, and you have no way of knowing what the original cost was.
SJB Trade Kitchens is the direct alternative. Steve Ball sells direct to homeowners – no trade account needed, no middleman, no hidden markups. You deal directly with Steve, you see the real price, and you make the decisions. Many Berkshire customers who have previously used Howdens through a fitter are surprised to discover how much more straightforward – and affordable – the direct supply route can be.
Many national suppliers offer 18mm carcasses but use thinner back panels to reduce weight and cost. At SJB, that is not a trade-off we are willing to make. Every cabinet features full 18mm solid backs – your fitter will notice the difference the second they lift the unit.
| Feature | Howdens Joinery | SJB Trade Kitchens |
|---|---|---|
| Who Can Buy | Trade account holders only | Direct to homeowners |
| Carcass Thickness | 18mm | 18mm |
| Back Panel | Thinner backs (typical) | 18mm Solid |
| Drawer Boxes | Standard drawer boxes | Blum Antaro as standard; Legrabox or dovetail solid oak available as premium upgrades |
| Bespoke Widths | Limited bespoke sizing | Included as standard |
| Pricing | Trade pricing – varies by account | Transparent, consistent pricing all year round |
| Support | Via your fitter/builder | Direct with Steve – 20 years experience |
| Delivery | Via trade account | From 10 working days |
Got a Howdens Quote? We Will Beat It.
Howdens pricing is trade-only and deliberately opaque – homeowners rarely know the real cost. SJB Trade Kitchens offers transparent, consistent pricing direct to homeowners, typically 30-50% cheaper than Howdens retail equivalent.
Send us your Howdens specification and Steve will come back with a like-for-like price. Most customers save significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, SJB Trade Kitchens specialises in bespoke sizing to ensure kitchens fit perfectly in the varied and often irregular spaces found in Berkshire cottages and period homes.
SJB guarantees a 10-day delivery window, allowing Berkshire homeowners to plan their kitchen installation projects with confidence and minimal delay.
No, SJB Trade Kitchens sells directly to homeowners with no requirement for a trade account or builder involvement, unlike trade-only companies.
Absolutely, SJB uses 18mm backs on all units, providing additional strength and durability suitable for the demands of Berkshire properties.
SJB Trade Kitchens offers transparent pricing that is 30-50 percent cheaper than Howdens, providing Berkshire homeowners with excellent value for quality kitchen units.
From Design to Reality: See the Difference
Every SJB kitchen starts with a detailed CAD design so you can see exactly how your finished kitchen will look before a single unit is ordered. Here is what that looks like in practice.
The CAD design produced by Steve before the kitchen was ordered
The finished kitchen installed by the customer — exactly as designed
“Steve is absolutely epic! Really nice guy. 100% genuine and to be trusted. Really easy to work with. Couldn’t do enough and always on hand.
The kitchen was amazing quality and the kitchen looked exactly like the images he produced on his computer. The units came ready built which saved a lot of time! Even if you’re not a joiner it was really easy to assemble and fit.
The kitchen is great quality and a VERY competitive price! 100% recommended! Thank you so much!”
— Scott, verified SJB Trade Kitchens customer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What Our Customers Say
Request Your Free Quote Below
Already have a Howdens specification or quote from your fitter? Send it to us and Steve will come back with a direct price comparison – usually within 24 hours.
Made to Order and Delivered in 10 Working Days
Rigid Built Cabinets with Blum Soft Close as Standard
Nationwide Delivery Available
SJB Trade Kitchens | Unit N, Central Trading Estate, Coulton Close, Oldham, OL1 4EB
Phone: 0161 509 4221 | Email: info@sjball.uk
SJB Trade Kitchens is an independent kitchen specialist. All competitor names are used for comparative purposes only based on publicly available specifications. SJB Trade Kitchens is not affiliated with Howdens, Wren Kitchens, Magnet, or DIY Kitchens.
