Blog - Landscaping

How to Pave Your Driveway
Feb 16^th, 2022

A driveway makes a strong first impression when you arrive at a property by adding to its curb appeal and functionality. Here is a complete guide on how to lay driveway paving for a structurally sound and long-lasting driveway.

How to Lay a Shingle Path
Feb 2^nd, 2022

A shingle pathway is a great way to zone your garden and keep visitors off your lawn. With a shallow depth of a few inches and relatively few tools needed, it is something that any advanced DIY-er can tackle.

How to Prepare a Garden for Growing Vegetables
Jan 26^th, 2022

Unless you’re a huge advocate for an allotment, growing vegetables can be achieved by just about anyone that puts their mind to it. And it’s incredibly rewarding too - there are a number of vegetables and fruits you can try across the year to grow and cultivate in your very own backyard. Preparing your garden is probably the most difficult step, but it’s not even too much hassle to adjust - here is a step-by-step guide to prepping your garden for growing vegetables.

A Guide for Installing a Garden Drainage System
Jan 12^th, 2022

Water gives life to all things living and can help you to maintain a beautiful and lush green garden. Too much of it however can be a recipe for disaster. A good drainage system stops your garden from getting waterlogged, something especially important for those of us living in the wet and grey UK.

Gardening Jobs for the Winter
Jan 5^th, 2022

As the cold months approach, you might be thinking it’s best to leave your garden as it is for the winter, but there’s actually a lot you can do to maintain your garden and keep it fresh in time for spring. We’ve put together some things you can get on with in your backyard to keep yourself busy in the garden this winter.

How to Repair Your Tiled Steps
Dec 22^nd, 2021

Do you have tiled steps in your garden or entrance way to your home? With the material used, hundreds of people’s feet walking on them annually, wear and tear and the harsh weather we have throughout the year, your tiled steps do take a battering.

A Complete Guide to Patio Materials
Oct 13^th, 2021

Patios are a great addition to many people’s gardens and landscapes. Whether you have a small garden or a huge open space to play with, adding space for a patio can add character to your home and give yourself your own space for eating, drinking and quality time with the family.

How to Create Different Zones in Your Garden
Sep 22^nd, 2021

One of the best ways to maximise the space of your garden is by creating zoned areas. Dividing your garden into different zones will help to give each area a particular purpose. For example, dining, relaxing and playing. Regardless of the size of your outdoor space, there are plenty of ways to make interesting zoned areas in your garden this summer.

Making the Most of Your Small Garden
Sep 15^th, 2021

Having a compact garden often means you never know what you can and can’t do in such a small space, but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this guide we’ll show you how to make the most of a small part of your home that doesn’t break the bank.

How to Add Flower Beds to Your Walkways
Sep 8^th, 2021

Adding flower beds gives your garden a range of colour that can be changed throughout the year that can easily lead you and any guests through your garden. It also means you can attract multiple forms of wildlife, butterflies and other pollinators into your home.

6 Storage Ideas for Your Garden
Aug 25^th, 2021

A traditional garden shed is the obvious storage solution for all your garden equipment, but what if you don’t have the room for this extra building in your outdoor space? Don’t panic, there are plenty of other compact alternatives that will help to keep your garden clutter-free.

How to Maintain Your Paving
Aug 18^th, 2021

Keen to keep your paving in the best condition possible throughout the year? There are actually a few ways you can do so that don’t require a lot of work. So long as you regularly maintain your paving, you’ll be able to keep them looking amazing across the year, and this guide will show you where you can start.

A Beginner’s Guide to Topsoil
Aug 4^th, 2021

Gardening is a relaxing, enjoyable pastime for many, and extremely rewarding once plants and shrubs start to flourish. However, there is much to learn – you don’t just place a bulb in the soil and hope for the best, there’s a lot more to it than that.

A Guide to Installing Decking for Summer
July 14^th, 2021

With summer in full swing, you might be looking for ways to improve your garden and ensure it is a safe, relaxing place that you can enjoy for the next few months. Decking is a great option and can completely transform your outdoor space.

How to Enjoy Great Outdoors Month in Your Garden
June 23^rd, 2021

June is Great Outdoors Month, and now that the sunny weather has finally arrived, there's never been a better time to get out and celebrate the great outdoors in your own back garden...

3 Ways to Encourage Wildlife to Your Garden
June 16^th, 2021

As a huge benefit for the environment and the local area’s wildlife growth, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be adding these features to your garden. Here are the top 3 features you can add into your garden this summer in order to encourage the wildlife!

How to Make Your Own Raised Sleeper Bed
May 26^th, 2021

It won’t be long before the kids are off school for several weeks, and you’ll likely have to come up with lots of ways to keep them entertained. There are many ways you can prepare for your garden for your kids’ summer holidays that don’t break the bank; we’ve put together the best ideas that your little ones will enjoy.

Is Your Garden BBQ Ready?
May 19^th, 2021

With lockdown easing and the weather improving, your outside space is now the safest way to host your family and friends. Have you been neglecting your space throughout the winter? Does it need a little revamp or clean? If you don’t quite feel that your garden space is ready for hosting, read our guide on how to get your garden BBQ ready this summer!

Cheap and Easy Ways to Improve Your Garden for The Kids This Summer
May 12^th, 2021

It won’t be long before the kids are off school for several weeks, and you’ll likely have to come up with lots of ways to keep them entertained. There are many ways you can prepare for your garden for your kids’ summer holidays that don’t break the bank; we’ve put together the best ideas that your little ones will enjoy.

Preparing your Patio for The Summer
May 5^th, 2021

With rain, sometimes hailstones, crisp mornings and direct heat onto the decking, canopies, and furniture, you may need to look at taking care of your patio before inviting guests around for a post-lockdown party. So, before investing in that new BBQ, take a look at this guide to preparing your patio for the summer.

Everything you need to know about Hardwood Garden Sleepers
Apr 28^th, 2021

Railway sleepers are extremely versatile and a great choice to create and plan a new garden layout. New garden layouts can include steps, pathways or even simple borders. Whatever the use for garden sleepers, you can purchase railway sleepers in three different variants – Hardwood, Softwood and Reclaimed Sleepers. In this blog, we explore in detail everything you need to know about Hardwood/Oak Garden Sleepers.

How to paint, stain or oil your decking
Apr 21^st, 2021

Decking can brighten up and add character to any home, allowing you have the perfect place within your garden to relax, dine outdoors and even play. Whilst the benefits of decking are obvious, it is also important to maintain your decking. To keep your decking in pristine condition, in this blog we have put together decking maintenance methods varying from oils, paints and stains for you to use, including top tips for each method.

3 reasons to switch to composite decking
Mar 31^st, 2021

When it comes to building your decking, you can choose to work with a number of materials such as timber or composite decking options. The focus of this blog is to explore three key reasons why you should dump traditional timber decking variants and switch to composite decking.

Can you use artificial grass on decking
Mar 10^th, 2021

Artificial grass has been a popular option for many homeowners and it’s easy to see why! A question that we get asked a lot by our customers is whether you can use artificial grass on decking? In short, the answer is yes but there are a few factors that we will address in this blog that you should consider.

Everything you need to know about Softwood Garden Sleepers
Feb 24^th, 2021

Railway sleepers have been a popular landscape feature for many gardens over the decades. Due to its versatile characterises, garden sleepers continue to be loved by gardeners, homeowners, and landscapers today. In this blog, we focus on everything you need to know about softwood garden sleepers.

How to Seal Block Paving
Feb 17^th, 2021

Keep your block paving looking fantastic all year round by a bit of DIY sealing. This sealing process will help protect your paving from nasty elements, limit weed growth and ensure your paving looks in perfect condition. In this blog we look and share best practices for sealing block paving

Garden Trends for 2021
Jan 6^th, 2021

As gardening continues to become a favourite hobby for homeowners, you may be on the lookout for the latest garden trends for this year. Here at Lawsons we have been analysing the most recent trends via Instagram, which we think will continue to dominate in 2021. Read our latest blog to uncover these latest trends...

How to care for your artificial grass in winter
Nov 25^th, 2020

Artificial grass looks wonderful all year round and that’s why it’s so popular here in the UK. Whilst artificial grass is low maintenance, with extreme weather, you will have to maintain your grass to some extent, especially in the winter. In this blog we’re exploring and give you top tips on how to care for your artificial grass during the winter...

What to consider when planning a driveway
Nov 11^th, 2020

Creating a paved driveway has become a popular choice for many homeowners in the UK. By updating or creating a new driveway, you can easily frame the outside of your home in the style that you want, make a change to the appearance of your home and also the functionality of the approach. In this blog we explore key factors you should consider when planning a new driveway...

Garden Edging Ideas
Sep 2^nd, 2020

Most traditional garden fencing is made to last, however there are times where simple maintenance and care just won’t cut the deal and you will have to replace, repair and even erect a new fence. In this blog, we explore key signs to look out for, which clearly shoutout that it’s time for a new fence…

Why Create A Raised Sleeper Bed
Aug 19^th, 2020

Using railway sleepers to build raised sleeper beds are an excellent way of growing your own fruit and vegetables and even a wide range of plants. In this blog, we’re exploring the advantages and disadvantages of building a raised sleeper bed in your garden.

Patio Ideas Using Natural Stone
Aug 5^th, 2020

We love natural stone for patios or landscaping projects, it’s beautiful and you can create effortlessly stunning and unique patio landscapes. Selecting the right material for updating your existing patio or even creating a new patio is very important. In this blog, we will explore 4 patio ideas when using natural stone and we’re sure you won’t be disappointed...

How to Clean Artificial Grass
Jul 22^nd, 2020

There are many reasons why many people have started to choose artificial grass for their lawns and gardens. It’s low maintenance requirements (no need to trim, mow, water or fertilisers), ease of installation and reduced costs make artificial grass a preferred choice for most homes. Whilst there is the little maintenance benefit, like all things artificial grass does need to a clean over once in a while to keep it looking fresh and healthy. Continue reading to find some maintenance tips to help you keep your artificial grass looking green and healthy all year round...

Hardwood or Softwood Garden Sleepers
Jul 8^th, 2020

At Lawsons we stock a wide range of railway sleepers which can be used for many purposes around your garden. Our range includes reclaimed sleepers, softwood sleepers and hardwood sleepers. With a variety of choice, it might become difficult to decide which garden sleeper is best for the job in hand and that’s why in this blog we explore the differences between hardwood and softwood sleepers and which one you should choose...

How to Repair Paving
Jun 17^th, 2020

Concrete is very durable, but you may find yourself in a situation where you need to repair some of your paving. Damaged paving can cause pavers to sink due to heavy use or ground movements and lead to rainwater collecting puddles in your sunken paving slabs. Read our blog to find out how you can best repair paving which has been damaged and keep them your paving clean.

Why choose Permeable Block Paving
Jun 3^rd, 2020

In recent times, it has become more noticeable that more and more homeowners are opting to construct car parking areas within their properties and off the road. The desire to have driveways to park vehicles, does however come with potential environmental consequences. When there is heavy or sustained rainfall our drainage systems can become clogged and cause devastating flooding

How to create a pet friendly garden
May 20^th, 2020

You’ve decided to include a beautiful patio or paved area within your garden to enjoy your summer days at home. However, with all DIY paving jobs, you will need to cut the paving slabs to fit the design you have in mind. There are many ways to cut paving slabs by hand, and in this blog, we will explore the top three methods used.

What is Composite Decking
Apr 29^th, 2020

You’ve decided to include a beautiful patio or paved area within your garden to enjoy your summer days at home. However, with all DIY paving jobs, you will need to cut the paving slabs to fit the design you have in mind. There are many ways to cut paving slabs by hand, and in this blog, we will explore the top three methods used.

How to cut paving slabs
Apr 8^th, 2020

You’ve decided to include a beautiful patio or paved area within your garden to enjoy your summer days at home. However, with all DIY paving jobs, you will need to cut the paving slabs to fit the design you have in mind. There are many ways to cut paving slabs by hand, and in this blog, we will explore the top three methods used.

Care and Cleaning for your Decking
Mar 26^th, 2020

Although composite decking is a great low-maintenance option for your outdoor spaces, it still requires occasional cleaning in order to keep it looking at its best. The good news is that cleaning your composite decking couldn’t be easier. We recommend either purchasing a composite decking solution, or using hot and soapy water with a soft bristle brush. Read on for some more helpful tips on how to care and clean your composite decking.

What types of Railway Sleepers are there?
Mar 12^th, 2020

We love Railway Sleepers, they are beautiful, versatile, come in various shapes and forms and have over the years become immensely popular among landscape architects, gardeners and even furniture designs. Read our blog to find out what kind of railway sleepers are available to you and to help you make a more informed decision before purchasing.

What are the different types of Artificial Grass and why should you consider?
Feb 19^th, 2020

Artificial grass is a synthetic grass and has become a popular choice for many individuals over the years. With so many artificial grass options available, it can be overwhelming on choosing the right type for your garden. Read our blog to understand the different kinds to suit your requirements.

Tips & Tricks for Laying Paving Slabs
Dec 11, 2019

If you are planning a DIY project using paving slabs, such as a new patio, garden path or driveway, you might want to take note of a few of these handy tips and tricks before you begin.

The Benefits of Decorative Chippings
Oct 30, 2019

Decorative chippings are ideal for footpaths and driveways as well as enhancing planting areas giving a contemporary look to any garden design. With so many different types of decorative chippings available, you will want to make sure that you find the right option suitable for you; whether it be bark chippings, slate chippings, granite chippings, pebble chippings or a whole host of other possibilities! As well as decorative chippings looking great, they also have a range of other benefits

How to Use Topsoil for Winter
Oct 16, 2019

Winter is coming! This means shorter days, dropping temperatures and less time out enjoying our gardens. However, at this time of year, it is important to prepare your garden as best you can for the frosty weather ahead. One of the best ways to do this is by spreading a final layer of topsoil over your lawn.

3 Decorative Landscaping Ideas
Oct 09, 2019

Whether your garden is the size of a postage stamp or consists of acres of lawn and flower beds, most homeowners are keen to ensure that their plot of land looks beautiful. Landscaping can be intimidating to some people; if you’re not an experienced gardener, then it can be tricky to know where to begin.

3 Decorative Chipping Landscaping Ideas
Sep 25, 2019

Decorative chippings are a popular landscaping material. They are ideal for footpaths, driveways and flower beds and can help to create a contemporary look to any outdoor space. If you are looking for inspiration on how to use decorative aggregates around your home, we’ve put together three ideas below to inspire you…

5 Top Tips to Maintain Your Garden Paving 
Aug 21, 2019

Paving is the perfect way to increase kerb appeal, extend the use of your garden, or to just create an attractive edge around your lawn. We stock a huge range of paving options, including: driveway block paving, decorative paving, natural stone paving, council slabs and a full range of accessories to finish off the look you are after!

Top Tips for a Weed Free Garden
Aug 07, 2019

Anyone who has spent time gardening or landscaping will understand just how irritating weeds can be! Spending long periods of time can be tedious, time consuming and a lot of hard work. So what is the best way to get rid of weeds from our gardens? Read our list of top tips to help keep your garden in perfect condition this summer!

How to Landscape Your Garden on a Budget
Jul 24, 2019

Landscaping on a budget doesn’t mean you have to settle for anything less than perfect, it just means you have to be a little more creative with your options. Where saving money is concerned, it’s often better to think about how you can work with what you’ve already got, rather than buying everything new. For example, if your fence is looking a little worse for wear, you might want to give it a fresh lick of paint or replace some of the panels, rather than the whole thing.

How to Treat Railway Sleepers
Jul 10, 2019

Railway sleepers are a very popular garden landscaping material because they are attractive, hard-wearing and very versatile. They can be used to build retaining walls, garden borders and even benches. Wooden railway sleepers offer durability and a natural rustic look to any outdoor space, however, like your garden fence they do require some maintenance to help protect them from the elements.

Landscaping Ideas for Gardens with No Grass
Jun 27, 2019

While well-kept lawns are undeniably beautiful (and a must-have for many) they can also be quite high maintenance. Lots of gardens these days don’t actually have a lawn, leaving homeowners to be creative with their landscaping. You may be wondering how you can landscape a garden that has no grass? Read on for some ideas.

Landscape Garden Ideas for a Small Space
May 22, 2019

You don’t need a huge space to create a beautiful garden. Small gardens have a number of great benefits, including the fact that they are nice and easy to maintain!

Ideas for Using Railway Sleepers in Your Garden
May 15, 2019

Railway sleepers are a very popular garden building material and we are seeing them used more and more in modern landscaping designs. Sleepers are such a popular choice among gardeners because they are attractive, hard-wearing and very versatile.…

How to Ensure Your Decking is Safe
May 01, 2019

In light of May being Deck Safety Month, we here at Lawsons wanted to take the opportunity to give you some advice about your decking so that you stay safe over summer. They say that if your deck is over 30 years old, you should definitely be concerned. So, here are some things you should look out for next time you're out doing some garden maintenance…

The Benefits of Composite Decking
Apr 11, 2019

Composite decking is an excellent, low maintenance alternative to timber and continues to increase in popularity amongst landscape designers and homeowners, due to its stylish designs and durability. If you are considering decking an area of your outdoor space, here is a list of reasons why composite decking could be your perfect solution…

3 Business Tips for Landscape Gardeners
Mar 27, 2019

If you work for yourself as a landscape gardener, there are lots of things to think about to make sure it is a successful venture. The great thing about landscape gardening is you don’t need any qualifications, just register with HMRC and away you go. However, although you might be fantastic in the garden, you need to be able to understand a little bit about how to run a business.

The Importance of a Proper Drainage System
Mar 20, 2019

We all know that water can actually destroy a building, or at least cause some chaos. It can lead to damp and mould, cause a burst pipe or damage a ceiling when there’s a leak. What you may not know, however, is that water can also wreak havoc from the outside of a building, not just on the inside. With that said it’s important to pay attention to any drainage issues and properly maintain the drainage system on the property.

5 Landscaping and Garden Design Trends for 2019
Feb 27, 2019

If you’re planning a complete garden re-design or simply want to freshen things up, one of the best places to start is to learn about some of the hottest trends in gardening and landscaping. To help give you some inspiration, we’ve done all the research, so that we can share the top trends that gardening enthusiasts and designers think will make it big in 2019…

Important Advice: Installing Trex Decking
Jan 11, 2019

Trex decking is renowned for its stunning aesthetics, durability and simple maintenance. In fact, Trex has been crowned the number 1 decking brand, helping homeowners create a striking garden sanctuary. If you have a landscaping project on the horizon and you’re planning to install Trex decking, you might find the following advice helpful.

3 Ideas for Using Railway Sleepers in the Garden
Nov 16, 2018

There are so many great ways to use railway sleepers in your garden and the results are not only visually pleasing, but can also be very cost effective. Their natural colours and long, wide structures make them the perfect feature material for landscaping as well as building garden furniture.

How to Safely Remove Ice & Snow from your Decking
Oct 2, 2018

If you want to use your decking area throughout the winter, or you need to access your garden via your decking, then you will need to prevent it from becoming icy and dangerous throughout the winter months.

How Artificial Grass Can Help with Hay Fever
Jul 12, 2018

While installing artificial grass won’t actually cure your hay fever, it will certainly help to reduce your exposure to grass pollen in your garden. This will make it easier to sit out and enjoy that sunshine during BBQ season, without the unpleasant symptoms.

Top 4 Tips for Upgrading Your Decking
Jun 29, 2018

If your decking needs a little TLC, here are our top tips on what you can do to help it look its best and protect it from the elements.

Make a Traditional Stepping Stone Path
Jun 27, 2018

Once upon a time, stepping stone paths were seen as a bit passé; the sort of garden feature which rose to popularity in the 1950s and 60s only to plummet into the depths of ‘naff’ once things got a little more streamlined and contemporary in the 1990s.

Garden Path and Patio Ideas
Jun 22, 2018

Give your outdoor space a new stylish edge by plotting in a patio or weaving in a walkway. It's a good idea to try and match your pathway to your patio paving. This will allow the same style and design to flow throughout your garden, bringing all the landscaping elements together.

How to make a retaining wall with railway sleepers
Jun 08, 2018

Wooden railway sleepers are an excellent alternative to bricks or concrete for building retaining walls in your garden. Not only do they look beautiful, but they are often a much more affordable option.

How to Lay a Garden Path
Jun 05, 2018

A garden path is something that is often overlooked, but there is actually a huge amount of potential when it comes to planning a pathway. If you have decided to add a path to your garden then there are lots of things to take into consideration….

Are You Considering Railway Sleepers in your Garden Makeover?
May 31, 2018

Garden design is currently more innovative and creative than it’s ever been before. Thanks to a huge interest in gardening programmes on television, more and more people are realising that they can self-design an amazing space in their own gardens and also that the materials necessary are readily available.

Why Install Porcelain Paving?
May 03, 2018

Porcelain is a new and modern alternative to natural stone paving, which can be used both inside and outside the home if you’d like a robust, hard-wearing surface that’s beautiful too.

How to Install Composite Decking
Apr 25, 2018

Composite decking is the low-maintenance alternative to timber – you don’t need to sand and seal your deck regularly and you can even still enjoy the look of timber, depending which type of decking boards you go for. You can install your new deck yourself if you’re relatively comfortable with DIY – it’s a great project for sunny days in the garden.

City Gardens: Making the Most of Your Space
Mar 1, 2018

City living has many advantages but lots of outdoor space isn’t one of them. However, many homeowners are happy to forgo the joys of mowing their own lawn for the convenience of living close to shops, theatres, cafes and work.

Do It Yourself Landscaping
Jan 19, 2018

Gardening can be intimidating if you’re not an experienced horticulturist and let’s face it, not many people are. That doesn’t change the fact that gardening is one of the most satisfying and healthy hobbies out there and many people would love to get involved in the beautification of their garden.

Why You Should Install Artificial Grass This Autumn
Oct 25, 2017

Now that the warm weather is dying down (or disappeared long ago but we hold out hope), most people turn their attention to the interior of their homes rather than their gardens, but it’s actually the perfect time to make some upgrades outdoors. You can still enjoy many of the benefits of artificial grass, even if you’re not spending most of your time outside.

How to Care for Your Decking in Autumn and Winter
Oct 11, 2017

After enjoying your decking throughout summer, autumn is the perfect time to do some additional maintenance before the cold weather sets in. Whether you have a timber or a composite deck, it’s important to do some annual maintenance to keep it looking good and ensuring that it lasts for as long as possible. Here are some items to add to your gardening to do list over the next few weeks.

3 Uses for Landscape Fabric
Sep 09, 2017

Landscape fabric is an essential tool in any gardener or landscaper’s arsenal. It helps to stabilise soil, saves on mulch, helps filtration, retains moisture, and prevents weeds from growing. For such a cheap tool, it’s surprisingly multi-functional and can help you make a huge difference to the quality and layout of your garden.

How to Choose the Right Paving for Your Home
Sep 1, 2017

Choosing the right paving for your home can be difficult – whether you’re just creating a small garden path or completely revamping your driveway, the decision will make a huge difference to the look and feel of your home. You need to choose something that compliments the existing features and colours, while fitting in with your budget and your own sense of style.

3 Garden Tips from the Pros
Jul 27, 2017

Not everybody can afford to hire professional landscape architects to help with their garden or even provide some consultation, but that doesn’t mean that your garden can’t look like it was put together by a pro. Just a few simple tips and details can make your garden easier to manage and more attractive all year round. Here are some of our favourite tips from gardening professionals.

4 Ways to Use Decking
June 8, 2017

Decking is a popular aspect of many UK gardens. It is a great way to introduce a stable and safe surface for entertaining guests, hosting BBQs or simply relaxing in the afternoon sun. Even if you love your lawn, there’s no reason why you can’t also have a deck; it will transform your garden in no time at all. We have put together a list of ideas of some of the best ways use your deck.

Why You Don’t Need a Railway Sleeper Kit
May 23, 2017

Railway sleepers are one of the most fashionable building materials right now, both in the garden and for the home. As with any trend, there are plenty of businesses looking to capitalise on it, including those creating railway sleeper kits to help you build planters or raised beds and even paths.

Spring Clean Your Garden Deck
May 19, 2017

With BBQ season quickly advancing, it’s a good idea to take a look at your garden decking to make sure that winter hasn’t taken a toll. This can help you avoid accidents – such as a slippery deck or even rotted joisting – and means that you’ll have any repairs and maintenance done in time for summer.

Can I Use Railway Sleepers to Build a Garden Deck?
May 17, 2017

Railway sleepers are both very easy to use and incredibly versatile; our clients have used them for everything from making garden paths through to creating one-of-a-kind piece of furniture for their homes or gardens.

Decking Buying Guide
Mar 23, 2017

A quality deck will last 10-30 years, so it’s worthwhile doing research before you buy to make sure that your deck suits your family’s needs and your maintenance preferences. That’s why we’ve put together this simple buying guide to help you choose the right decking materials and type for you.

How to Make Your Garden More Private
Feb 28, 2017

If you want to turn your garden into a hideaway, you’ll need to make sure that it’s private enough to be able to relax and wind away summer days and evenings without feeling self-conscious or overlooked. Since gardens and homes are typically built in rows, it can be difficult to really feel the benefit of private outdoor space. Here are a few tips to help you make your garden more private.

How to Make the Most of Your Decking
Feb 24, 2017

If you’ve planned your deck, chosen a material, decided on a decking pattern, and finally created an outdoor space you can be proud of, why stop there? Your deck can provide a stable, clean, and safe surface for entertaining and BBQs, but you can add more to make it comfortable and attractive too. If you’d like to take your deck to the next level, here are a few ideas to help!

How to Install a Sunken Trampoline
Feb 21, 2017

If you bought your children a garden trampoline for Christmas, or even bought one for yourself to enjoy some outdoor exercise without the need for a gym membership, it’s important that you install it safely and easily. Simply standing the trampoline on your lawn is the simpler way to install it, but it means that you often overlook your neighbours when jumping on it, and if anybody does fall off the trampoline they are very likely to injure themselves.

Composite vs. Timber Decking
Feb 15, 2017

Composite and timber are the most popular options for decking in the UK – both materials offer their own benefits and come with specific drawbacks. The right choice for your garden and family depends largely on your budget, how much time you will dedicate to maintaining it, how long you would like your deck to last, and the overall look you are trying to create.

How to Care for Timber Decking
Feb 06, 2017

Timber decking can last for decades when properly cared for, but it’s important to maintain your decking if you’d like to keep it looking good. Here is our list of tips to help you keep your decking at its best and ensure that you don’t need to unnecessarily replace parts of or the whole deck.

How to Care for External Timber – Wooden Decks, Cladding, Sheds, Furniture, and More
Feb 01, 2017

Wood is a fantastic material – it has great thermal qualities, it’s pleasing to the touch, it’s attractive, and it’s a renewable material so building out of wood has a very limited impact on the environment (and can, in some cases, improve it). However, unlike plastics and other manmade materials, it does need a little more maintenance and care to keep it looking its best.

Decking Patterns - Choose the Right One for You
Jan 20, 2017

There’s far more to an attractive decking area than just choosing the right material – you need to choose the right decking pattern and features to make sure that it suits your home and your style. Features like decorative patterns and balustrading make your decking far more interesting and can even help you define seating areas or plants if they’re incorporated into your deck too.

How to Make Your Garden Wildlife Friendly
Dec 16, 2016

Some of the UK’s most loved animals are in decline and at risk of extinction – beloved species such as the dormouse and hedgehog are seeing falling populations due to intensive farming, urbanisation, and climate change.

Build a Sandpit for the Kids
Sep 30, 2016

If you don’t live near the beach but still want the kids to enjoy making sandcastles, creating a sandpit is an easy and safe way to let them indulge and keep them entertained in the summer. You don’t have the risks you do in communal sandpits of having rubbish (or worse) in the sand, and can make it as big or as small as you want depending on the size of your garden.

Use Pavers to Make a Modern Water Feature
Sep 23, 2016

If you want to break up your lawn and attract wildlife to your garden, there’s no better way to do it than a pond or water feature. They’re surprisingly easy to make for something that increases desirability and creates so much entertainment throughout the year. You don’t even need to add fish to watch squirrels, birds, and even frogs playing and running around your garden.

7 of Our Favourite Garden DIYs to Make the Most of Summer
Sep 09, 2016

Summer’s coming to an end but it’s not quite over yet – there are still a few sunny weekends coming up when you can make the most of the warm weather and improve your home or garden. Here are a few of our favourite DIY projects from around the net – you can make almost all of them with items from your local builders’ or timber merchant, but may need to supplement a few specialist parts from elsewhere.

How to Improve Your Garden Soil
Sep 02, 2016

Good soil is the foundation for any successful growing project, whether you want to improve your borders or even start growing your own food. Britain’s land is hugely varied, so it’s important to pay close attention to your soil before you start planting to ensure that it drains well, allows room to grow, and has the nutrients you need for your chosen plants to grow.

Everything you need to Know about Railway Sleepers
Aug 12, 2016

Uses and things to remember about Railway Sleepers

Update Your Driveway for Real Kerb Appeal
Jul 22, 2016

Your driveway is one of the first things you see when approaching your home – it can add kerb appeal, security, and elegance to your home without having to gain planning permission or affect your day to day life during the building work.

Build a Perfect BBQ Garden
Jul 15, 2016

Realistically, the UK only enjoys about a month of BBQ weather per year, so we need to make the most of it. This is when Britons get the most enjoyment out of their gardens and beautiful lawns – enjoying good (possibly burnt) food with family and friends while soaking in the sun. A well-designed BBQ garden gives you space to cook on, eat on, and socialise, without turning the entire area into a patio. It’s surprisingly easy to design a garden that helps you make the most of summer while cutting down on maintenance throughout the rest of the year.

Block Pave Paths, Patios and Drives 
Jul 11, 2016

Block Paving, also known as Paviours or Pavers, can be used in almost all paving applications be it large commercial projects, such as car parks and docks, right down to a simple garden path or patio. It is a good alternative to traditional concrete and tarmac as offers greater flexibility in design and is aesthetically more pleasing. Being interlocking in their design makes them extremely strong for use in trafficked areas.

The Deck of Your Dreams
Jul 01, 2016

No matter how beautiful your garden is, without a deck it’s missing an integral focal point in terms of both looks and practicality.

A decked area is more than a handy spot for relaxing in the sun; it’s a point of centrality, a beautiful oasis in the middle of your lawn which surrounded by trees, shrubs and flowers, makes what is essentially the sitting room for your outdoor living.

Decking Tips and Tricks
June 03, 2016

A beautiful decked area can really transform your garden as well as your lifestyle. Adding to the value of your home and to the practicality of your outdoor space at once, a timber deck is a must-have even for those with small gardens. The freedom to sit and relax or to entertain outdoors in a stylish and attractive area is a real pleasure once the warmer months arrive.

Six Brilliant Uses for Railways Sleepers
May 27, 2016

Railways sleepers are one of the most versatile landscaping materials you can acquire for very affordable prices.

There’s no limit to the creative uses which they can be put to both in the garden and out. If you’re overdue for a little carpentry and you think you’d like to give your home or garden a little facelift, take a look at our ten most innovative uses for railway sleepers.

Railway Sleepers Versatile and Beautiful
Apr 14, 2016

Railway sleepers aren’t only fabulously cheap to purchase but they’re also beautiful and there’s actually not a lot you can’t make with them. If you’re dreaming up all manner of timber based projects for the coming summer and wondering how you can afford all of those materials…look no further than railway sleepers.

Transform Your Landscape with DIY Garden Steps
Mar 24, 2016

If you have a sloping lawn, garden steps could be a great way to tidy up the look of your garden and offer an all-weather alternative to walking down the grass and getting your shoes muddy. It’s the perfect way to join up your landscape, especially if you have a shed or garage at the end of the garden you’d like to access regularly.

Raise Your Gardening Game with Planters
Mar 18, 2016

Raised planters are a fantastic way to separate your flowers or vegetables from the rest of your garden – they offer a way to save space, maintain healthier soil for your plants, and even mean that you don’t need to bend down as much when tending to your garden if you have a bad back.

How to Transform Your Garden with Namgrass
Mar 03, 2016

Namgrass is an excellent alternative to grass if you’d like a low-maintenance lawn that looks fantastic all year round. There’s no mowing, no watering, and no mud – you can just relax on your pristine lawn and know that even if the kids are out playing on it, you won’t have mud dragged across your carpets.

Log Cabins – Providing More Space for Growing Families
May 17, 2016

As house prices rise and more and more families find that the idea of moving to a larger property is simply out of their reach, so innovative space-saving ideas move to the fore with many people thinking out of the box when it comes to finding new ways in which to fit the family in.

Should I Buy New or Used Railway Sleepers?
Feb 25, 2016

Railway sleepers are one of the most popular gardening trends of 2016 – designers and gardeners are using them for everything from creating paths, retaining walls and to building planters.

Build a Fire Pit in Your Back Garden
Jan 29, 2016

There’s nothing like a crackling fire on a summer evening to draw friends and family together. A well-built fire pit can extend the amount of time you spend outdoors and improve your garden as a social area. They’re also surprisingly easy to build, even if you’ve never tried bricklaying before.

Create a Pathway Using Railway Sleepers
Jan 10, 2016

If you have a path that’s in regular use – usually to a shed or pergola – it can have an impact on your grass quality. Creating a path is an excellent way to break up your lawn and offer an easy way for people to get around the garden without ruining your lawn.

How To Lay Railway Sleepers In The Garden
Jul 18, 2015

Railway Sleepers come in various sizes in both new and reclaimed softwood and hardwood. Reclaimed sleepers have generally been used to support railway lines; they have a worn appearance which makes them ideal for that traditional rustic look.

Distinctive Decking for Your Garden
Jun 17, 2015

Using decking to create a raised area gives you an ideal place for entertaining your friends & family for those long summer evenings. It does not matter if your garden is on a slope or level, timber decking can offer an attractive area for seating.

How to lay the Perfect Garden Patio
Jun 17, 2015

Looks like summer is finally on the way so now is the time to be thinking about that new patio. Just think how proud you will feel when you invite your friends round for that traditional barbeque. Here is our easy to follow guide for forming that perfect area.