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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.

What Is the Difference Between Wood Thermal Modification and Pressure Treatment?

Wood is undeniably beautiful for cladding, decking or fencing, but it’s a natural material that can decay. When used outdoors, particularly in the UK, it’s asked to stand up to a punishing range of elements.

The Ultimate Guide to Timber Rainscreen Cladding: Planning Your Project

Rainscreen cladding — also known as splayed or rhombus cladding — provides a decorative, contemporary touch, but it’s quite different to other popular cladding profiles.

Water & Rot Resistant Timber Species: The Best Types to Choose & Finishes to Apply

Don’t let a little moisture dissuade you from timber. Wood can provide a beautiful, natural touch, even in places where water might be encountered.

What Is The Difference Between Western Red Cedar & Alaskan Yellow Cedar?

Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar are both time-honoured, go-to choices for cladding, fencing and decking projects.

Douglas Fir Treatment Guide: The Best Sealants, Finishes & Stains & How To Apply Them

Douglas Fir performs superbly when used outdoors even without treatment. But with a little woodcare finish, you can be sure of decade upon decade of impeccable service and natural good looks.

Western Red Cedar Substitutes: Which Woods Work Just As Well?

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

Often dubbed ‘African teak’ and even a timber ‘Rolls Royce’, Iroko is a truly special species, suitable for almost any project.

Your Guide to Some of the World’s Most Beautiful, Best-looking & Luxury Timber Species

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

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

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.