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Timber

Timber is at the heart of what we do. As one of the country's leading timber merchants, we offer a wide range of high-quality timber products for all types of building and DIY projects.

Many of our local branches also offer a convenient timber cutting service to save you time on site. Find your nearest branch using our Branch Finder.

How to guides

A Buyer’s Guide to Preservative Treated Timber

Discover how treated timber is protected against rot and weather damage, and learn which timber preservative is best for your next outdoor project.

How to build a raised deck

Need help building a raised deck? We've got you covered with a full step by step guide.

How to fit railway sleepers together

Read our article on how to fit railway sleepers together including a checklist of what you will need for the job.

A Guide to CLS Timber

An article featuring everything you need to know about CLS timber in one place, from its benefits to the projects it can be used for! 

 

Treated Timber Use Classes Explained

Treated timber use classes like UC3 and UC4 help you choose the right timber for your project. Learn the differences, timber grades UK builders use, and when to pick UC4 fence posts or joinery grade timber.

 

Types of Timber: All you need to know

Discover the different types of timber, their key properties, and best uses. Learn everything you need to know to choose the right timber for your next project.

Quality timber for every project

At Howarth Timber & Building Supplies, we stock an extensive range of high-quality timber products to suit everything from structural builds to stylish outdoor landscaping. Whether you're renovating or crafting, our timber selection offers strength, reliability, and great value.

Choosing the right timber

Different types of timber suit different jobs. Structural Timber & Carcassing provides dependable load-bearing strength for internal frames and floors, while Roofing Battens are graded for durability and roof performance.

For smooth, precision-finished interior work, PSE Timber and Timber Mouldings deliver a clean, professional look.

Outdoors, Timber Decking, Fencing Timber,, and Timber Sleepers offer natural resilience and attractive finishes for gardens and landscaping.

We also supply Hardwood Timber & Cladding for premium-quality, long-lasting projects, along with versatile Sheet Materials for construction and joinery applications.

Timber cutting service

Howarth Timber's professional timber cutting service helps you to get the exact dimensions you need, saving time on-site and reducing waste. Perfect for bespoke projects or tight specifications. Find out more about in-branch timber cutting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of timber does Howarth Timber sell?
We stock a comprehensive range of timber and sheet materials, including structural timber (C16 and C24 graded), treated and untreated softwood, hardwood, PSE, rough sawn, CLS and scant, roof battens, joists, cladding, decking boards, garden sleepers, decorative timber, and sheet materials including plywood, MDF, OSB and chipboard. Use the category grid above to browse by type, or visit your nearest branch if you'd like advice on the right product for your project.
What's the difference between C16 and C24 timber?
C16 and C24 are strength grades for structural softwood timber. C24 is the higher grade, meaning it has been tested to withstand greater loads. It's typically specified for more demanding structural applications such as rafters, floor joists, and lintels. C16 is the standard grade used for most general construction and stud work. If your project has been designed by an architect or structural engineer, check your specification, it will state which grade is required.
What is the difference between hardwood and softwood?
Hardwood comes from broadleaf deciduous trees (such as oak, ash and beech) and is generally denser and more durable than softwood. Softwood comes from coniferous trees (such as pine, spruce and fir) and is the most widely used timber in UK construction due to its availability and cost. For most structural and general building applications, softwood is the right choice. Hardwood is typically used for joinery, flooring, furniture and decorative applications where durability and appearance are priorities.
What is treated timber, and do I need it?
Treated timber has been pressure-impregnated with a preservative that protects the wood against rot, fungal decay and insect attack. You should always use treated timber for any application where the wood will be in contact with or close to the ground, exposed to moisture, or used externally; for example fence posts, decking frames, garden sleepers and external structural timbers. Untreated timber is suitable for internal use where it won't be exposed to damp.
Can I get timber cut to size at Howarth Timber?
Yes, most of our branches offer an in branch cutting service where trained technicians will cut timber to your exact measurements while you wait. No appointment needed. Find your nearest branch with a cutting service using our Branch Finder. See our Timber Cutting Service page for full details.
Does Howarth Timber sell FSC and PEFC certified timber?
Yes, all timber sold by Howarth Timber is legally sourced, and we hold FSC and PEFC Chain of Custody certification across our range. You can filter for FSC and PEFC certified products within each category. For more information on our approach to responsible sourcing, see our Sustainability page.
What does PSE mean in timber?
PSE stands for Planed Square Edge and is timber that has been planed smooth on all four faces and edges to a consistent, accurate dimension. It's used for joinery, furniture, shelving and decorative applications where a clean, smooth finish is required. Unlike rough sawn timber, which retains its sawn surface, PSE is ready to use without further planing.

Customer Inspiration

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