Buyer’s Guides
Buyer’s Guides
Any commercial or home improvement project needs careful planning and consideration — you’re bound to have plenty of questions and queries. Our team of timber experts are here to help.
From decking to cladding, from fencing to oak structures, we’ve pulled together our insights into a series of buyers’ guides to help you with planning, designing and costing your next project.
The Best Waterproof & Rot Resistant Woods (& Finishes to Apply)
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As it’s a natural, porous material, wood can be susceptible to rot and decay if it’s overexposed to moisture. The wood can swell and shrink depending on humidity, which may lead to warping and cracking.
What Is The Difference Between Western Red Cedar & Alaskan Yellow Cedar?
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Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar are both time-honoured, go-to choices for cladding, fencing and decking projects.
Treating Douglas Fir for Outdoor Use: The Best Exterior Stains & How To Apply Them
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Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) is a stunning timber species for outdoor projects like cladding, fencing and decking. You may also know it as Douglas spruce or Oregon pine.
Western Red Cedar Substitutes: Which Woods Work Just As Well?
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With its alluring reddish-brown hues, excellent natural durability and sweet scent, Western Red Cedar is a go-to timber for any outdoor project. But, if you’re after something slightly different, there’s plenty of other woods that step up to the job superbly!
Your Guide to Iroko: Colour, Uses, Properties, Sustainability, Treatment & Costs
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Often dubbed ‘African teak’ and even a timber ‘Rolls Royce’, Iroko is a truly special species, suitable for almost any project.
The Best Types & Styles of Timber Outdoor Garden Fencing
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Just as a quality timber fence bestows a multitude of benefits to your garden – privacy, theming and a beautiful, natural look – a dilapidated wooden fence immediately downgrades any space.
Your Guide to Some of the World’s Most Beautiful, Best-looking & Luxury Timber Species
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There’s no shortage of dazzling, eye-catching and jaw-dropping wood species. Let’s take a look at a few of our favourites!
The Best Alternatives to Siberian Larch For Outdoor Use
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Siberian Larch is a fantastic exterior timber. But given trade restrictions with Russia — from where the species is imported — stocks are beginning to deplete.
The Best Timber For Outdoor Use: Garden Furniture, Benches, Tables & More
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Looking to add a touch of natural beauty? As a building material that slots seamlessly into almost any outdoor space, timber’s just the ticket — but no ordinary wood will do.
Your Guide to Western Red Cedar: The Species, Qualities & Uses
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Western Red Cedar is one of the most popularly-specified timbers. It’s no surprise why.