Inspiration & Advice
Are you looking for useful do-it-yourself advice? Do you want to know how to clean your artificial grass, or need some ideas for a garden transformation? At Howarth, we have plenty of how-to guides, product selections, and inspired themes to help you towards making your home or next garden project a success. You can also meet our expert authors to learn more about the people behind our advice and discover their industry experience.
We are much more than just timber, and with our innovative ideas and practical advice, you can create a home to be proud of.
Flat roof coverings compared: felt, EPDM, GRP and liquid roofing
In the UK, the most common flat roof coverings are EPDM rubber roofing, GRP fibreglass, torch-on felt and liquid roofing systems. Each offers its own advantages, making it suitable for different projects, budgets, lifespans and installation requirements.
It can be difficult to know where to start with such a wide range of options available. However, in this guide, we’ll compare the main types of flat roof coverings, explain their key benefits and uses, and help you choose the most suitable
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16th Oct 2026
What is roof flashing?
Roof flashing is a thin, weather-resistant material installed at roof junctions and other vulnerable areas to help prevent water ingress.
It is commonly fitted around chimneys, skylights, vents and roof valleys, as well as where the roof meets external walls. By creating a watertight seal, flashing helps channel rainwater away from these areas and protects the roof structure from leaks and moisture damage.
Want to find out more? Read on as we explain what roof flashing is, where it’s used,
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8th Oct 2026
How to fix a leaking roof from the inside
It's usually alarming when you see a leak pouring through your roof, but don't worry! Fortunately, you can use a quick, simple, and cost-effective solution to know how to repair a leaking roof from the inside. So, continue reading this article for all the helpful advice and tips on how to repair a leaking roof from the inside, from the method to cost.
Can a roof leak be fixed from the inside?
When you see a leak coming from your roof, the first thing you ask yourself is whether it can be
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7th Oct 2026
Behind the build with the Chester Branch
Our Chester branch has been working in collaboration with a local family-owned construction business, Team Roundhouse, on a development of multiple properties. This project has allowed us to support the development from construction to finishing touches like kitchen design and supply.
The plots feature a farmhouse and two barns, with the branch supplying a variety of products and building materials for the properties. While work is still being completed on the two barns, the farmhouse is much fu
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7th Oct 2026
How to Choose Roofing Underlay for a Pitched Roof
Roofing underlay is a water-resistant or waterproof barrier installed directly onto the roof deck (plywood or OSB) beneath the outer roofing material. The outer material is often made up of shingles, tile or metal.
It’s important to pick the right roof underlay product due to how it can act as an extra defence if wind-driven rain, snow or ice push past the outer roof covering (which would be highly inconvenient given today’s unpredictable weather!)
Therefore, this blog will go throug
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1st Oct 2026