Inspiration & Advice
Are you looking for useful do-it-yourself advice? Do you want to know how to clean your artificial grass, or are in need of some ideas for a garden transformaton? 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!
We are much more than just timber, and with our innovative ideas and practical advice, you can create a home to be proud of.
Treated Timber Use Classes Explained
Not all timber is created equally. When you're working on outdoor projects, choosing the right type of treated wood is vital. Different jobs need different treatments to protect the timber from weather, moisture, and decay. This is where treated timber use classes come in.
In this simple guide, we’ll explain the differences between UC3 timber and UC4 timber, outline the most common timber grades UK builders use, and help you decide what’s best for your project – whether you&rsq
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7th Aug 2025
Types of Aggregates Explained
Aggregates are the unsung backbone of construction, from the gravel beneath our driveways to the sand in the concrete!
In this blog, we’ll explore a wide range of aggregate types, spotlighting type 1 aggregate, type 2 aggregate, and introducing type 3 aggregate. Whether you’re curious about what is type 2 aggregate or even wondering what is type 3 aggregate, you’ll find all the answers here!
What are aggregates?
Aggregates are rough, natural or recycled materi
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7th Aug 2025
How to Treat Exterior Wood
Treating exterior wood may sound scary, but as the change of seasons begin, it’s time to draw up a list and tackle your garden maintenance jobs – including timber care.
Whether you want to protect your timber against the elements for a longer life against rot, wear and decay, or spruce up a tired-looking surface; there are many ways of treating wood for exterior use, depending on the type of wood and the finish you want to achieve.
So, are you wondering how to treat exterior wood? K
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6th Aug 2025
How to make Sleeper Steps
Sleeper steps are a fantastic way of using traditional materials for building garden steps. Whether you’re replacing existing steps or feeling fancy enough to create some brand new zoned-out outdoor spaces for an easy to access patio, decking, or grass – the design options are endless!
So, wondering how to build sleeper steps? Look no further! We have everything you need inside this handy guide to make the process much easier for you.
Deciding on the design
Durable by nature
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6th Aug 2025
How to Clean Gravel
Whilst you’re tending to your garden, it can be easy to focus on the big things – such as fence panels that need a new lick of paint, dirty garden furniture, or grass that needs mowing. And while it’s important to show some love to your entire garden, you should also know how to clean gravel and garden stones.
So, how do you clean gravel? Well, keep on reading this helpful how-to guide to figure out more!
1. Sweep down the gravel surface
To start, you will need t
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29th Jul 2025