Category Archives: Weston Sawmill and Nursery

Decorating Your Christmas Tree

How to Decorate Your Christmas Tree Like a Professional

Whether you have your Christmas tree up already, waiting for a few more weeks or you don’t even want to contemplate putting it up until the middle of December, decorating your Christmas tree is a task that many people look forward to and enjoy doing, especially those with attention to detail. If you strive to create a visually attractive tree like the ones you see in magazines, online or on TV, the following article is packed with expert tips on how to decorate it like a professional. Play your favourite Christmas songs and get decorating!

Choose The Perfect Tree

Professional decorating begins with the perfect base. If you are putting up an artificial tree, opt for a traditional style as it wouldn’t go out of fashion for years to come. On the other hand, if your household enjoys the annual trip to the tree farm and handpicking a real one, ensure its the right height, the branches are evenly distributed and it has a healthy green hue. For more information, have a read of our guide to choosing the perfect Christmas tree

Decide On A Theme

To achieve a professional look, a Christmas must have a central look to tie the decorations together so decide on a theme that resonates with your home or style. Examples of popular themes include traditional, neutral or you can get more creative with a woodland or retro theme. You can also decide on a coloured theme such as red and gold, white and silver or multi-coloured. 

Start With The Lights

Once you have fluffed up or separated your tree branches, it’s ready for decorating. Start with the string lights first because it is more difficult to do this when the ornaments are added. Additionally, the type of lights can make a difference, we recommended using white or clear LED lights to create a neutral base. Make sure to check all lights are in good working condition. There is no correct way of hanging string lights, once the plug reaches the socket. Some start weaving them at the bottom and work their way up or vice versa. Another way is hanging them vertically to avoid having to go around the tree.

Invest In Statement Ornaments

This is where your chosen theme comes to life. Invest in a few statement ornaments that harmonise the theme, rather than overcrowding the tree with random ornaments. Place larger ornaments in central places and spread them out. Add smaller ornaments and baubles to fill up any gaps. This creates a balanced and professional look. Position delicate or personalised ornaments higher up the tree so they are out of reach from little hands and pets. Don’t forget to add the most important ornament, the big star or angel at the top! Alternatively, opt for a bow or snowflake as a non-traditional option. 

Add A Tree Skirt

Never underestimate the addition of a tree skirt. Choosing one that matches your theme contributes to the overall appearance. There are many different styles to choose from including wicker, crushed velvet, faux fur or metal. Tree skirts are made to conceal unsightly pots or tree stands or wires, making them the ideal base for Christmas presents.

Layer With Ribbons

The decorations can stop here, but if you’re looking to add extra elegance, layer it with matching ribbons or tinsel. Select ones with wire edges so you have more control over the shape. While some people think ribbons and tinsel look tacky, the key is not to overdo it. Stick to one or two well-matched colours and drape them gracefully for a cohesive finish.

Find Your Perfect Christmas Tree At Weston Sawmill

So there you have it – your guide to turning your Christmas tree into a professionally decorated showstopper! Remember, it’s not just about achieving a picture-perfect tree, it’s about enjoying the process and even getting the whole family involved. If you are planning a trip to the tree farm soon, make sure to visit Weston Sawmill toward the end of November. From Nordmann Fir to Norway Spruce variations, your perfect Christmas tree will be waiting for you. Read our Christmas tree guide for more information. Our Christmas shop will also be open for festive gifts, ornaments and decorations. 
Be the first to know when our Christmas trees are available and more about our Christmas shop opening, follow our Facebook page today.

Fence with snow covered top

How to Protect Your Timber Fencing in the Winter

It’s around that time of the year again, when homeowners start to prepare their gardens for winter. They make sure to prune their gardens, move delicate plants from outdoors to a greenhouse or conservatory, store away garden furniture, power wash their decking and driveways, as well as rack and mow their lawns. 

However one part of the garden that often has less attention or is completely neglected is timber fencing. The combination of cold temperatures, moisture and strong winds can take a huge toll on timber fencing – rotting, warping or other damage. Unfortunately, timber fencing can’t be easily taken up and moved inside the same way as delicate plants or garden furniture. Instead, we’ll take you through the crucial steps of protecting your timber fencing from the harsh winter ahead. 

Trim Back 

If you have any hedges or trees beside your timber fencing, they may be overgrown and in need of a trim. Storms can cause branches to drop, break or fall. Overhanging branches or overgrown hedges can cause rubbing against the wood and cause scratches or damage.

Inspect, Repair & Wash 

Before winter, it’s a good idea to inspect your timber fencing first. Look out for any loose posts, boards, nails or rotten wood. If you spot any of these issues, it’s essential to repair them. Replace any nails or loose boards with new ones and ensure they are secured properly. Finally, use a pressure washer on a lower setting or a garden hose with a spray nozzle to give it a thorough wash and remove any cobwebs, leaves, dirt and algae. To remove green patches of algae, rub it with equal amounts of bleach and water, rinse thoroughly and allow to dry.

Apply A Protective Finish

Once your timber fencing is clean, dry and in good condition, it can be applied with a protective finish. You can choose from various options such as wood stains, paints or wood preservatives. These finishes add an extra layer of protection from the harsh weather and enhance the appearance of your fencing. 

If there is any flaking or peeling paint, make sure to scrape it down beforehand with a scraper and smooth it down with sandpaper to achieve an even result. Apply the finish during dry conditions so it dries down nicely. Don’t forget to cover the ground below the areas where you’ll be painting with a plastic sheet or an old bedsheet, this will prevent stains from any dripping or splattering paint.

Regular Maintenance

A freshly painted fence shouldn’t be left to deflect the winter on its own, it still needs some regular maintenance. Make sure the base of your timber fencing is clear of debris and leaves. Collected debris can trap moisture against the wooden posts, leading to a weakened or rotted base. A pile of snowfall also contains moisture and can damage the wood over time. 

If you experience heavy snowfall, use a soft brush to clear the majority of snow on and around your fencing. Be sure to avoid using salt or chemical de-icers on your fencing as this can be harmful to the wood and the protective finish. Storms are the biggest enemy for fencing as it can cause significant damage. After every storm, inspect your fencing again, keep a look out for loose boards, nails or leaning posts and get them fixed yourself or by a professional.

Pressure-Treated Timber Fencing At Weston Sawmill

If your current timber fencing has been recently damaged from a storm or looks like it needs to be replaced, it might be time to replace it with new timber fencing. At Weston Sawmill, we supply pressure-treated wooden panel fencing such as close board and trellis options, round poles, half round poles and sawn timber for both domestic and commercial applications around Shropshire, Staffordshire and Wolverhampton. Pressure-treated fencing means the wood has undergone a preservation process which increases its longevity, makes it low-maintenance and ideal for the winter period.

Visit our lumber yard in Weston-Under-Lizard, Shropshire to view our fencing products. We also offer premium, made-to-measure fencing as well as free local and nationwide delivery. For more information on our products, please contact us.

Choosing the Perfect Christmas Tree

A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Christmas Tree

As the festive season approaches, the annual trip to the Christmas tree farm or nursery is often an exciting and popular tradition amongst families across the nation. Whether this year is your first or hundredth time picking your own real Christmas tree, you will want to choose the best one available. At Weston Sawmill, we know all the tips and tricks to find the one. So, we thought it would be helpful to combine them in the following guide.

Measure Your Space

Before you make your quest to the Christmas tree nursery, take a moment to assess the space you have available in the room where you want the Christmas tree to stand, whether that is your living room, foyer or another room. Measure both the height and width to determine the maximum size your tree can be. We also recommend measuring your tree stand for reference to ensure it fits perfectly. This step is crucial in avoiding any last-minute surprises when you bring your tree home.

Know Your Christmas Tree Types 

When it comes to Christmas trees, not all of them are the same. It’s worth having a general idea of different types. In the UK, you will typically come across two main types of Christmas trees:

Norway Spruce – When you think of a classic Christmas tree, it’s more likely a Norway Spruce. Known for its lovely pine scent and triangular shape. However, it has shorter needle retention, so be prepared for some needle shedding. Luckily, this can be minimised by positioning it away from heat sources as well as keeping it hydrated.

Nordmann FirKnown for its soft, glossy and non-drop needles, the Nordmann Fir has a wide base and it is a popular choice among families with pets and young children. It is also budget-friendly. It retains its needles well, keeping your home clean throughout the festive season. Unfortunately, it is unscented and lacks the rich pine smell.

Inspection

When you’re at the Christmas tree nursery, give the tree a thorough inspection. Look for vibrant green needles that are firmly attached to the branches. Shake the tree gently. if it sheds a lot of needles, it may not be the best choice. Next, ensure the tree’s height fits your available space comfortably. It’s also a good idea to leave some room at the top for your Christmas tree topper. 

A full and well-shaped tree with even branches will look balanced and can be easier to decorate. Walk around the tree to ensure it has a symmetrical shape from all angles. You don’t want a tree with a noticeable gap of bare branches!

Tree Maintenance

Once you’re happy with your chosen tree, make sure it’s securely tied to your vehicle for the journey home. This will prevent any damage to the tree and ensure it arrives in its original condition. The perfect Christmas tree doesn’t end there. Once you’ve set up your tree at home, remember to allow it to drop before decorating and remember to water it regularly. For more information on how to properly maintain your Christmas tree, read our other guides including Caring for Your Christmas tree and Keep Your Christmas Tree Fresher For Longer

Visit Our Christmas Tree Nursery

Picking the perfect Christmas tree is an essential part of the preparations. Not only will it look beautiful but also fills your home with the festive spirit, a sense of nostalgia and a rich pine scent. So when the time comes to choose your Christmas tree, make sure to keep this guide in mind!

For Christmas trees in Shropshire, Wolverhampton and Staffordshire, make sure to stop by Weston Sawmill. From the middle of November, our Christmas tree nursery will be open and fully stocked with traditional and non-drop types as well as potted options in various widths and heights. Don’t hesitate to ask a member of staff for advice or help. Our Christmas shop will also be open for all your decorating and gifting needs. To keep updated on the latest news including our opening date of our Christmas tree nursery and shop, keep an eye on our Facebook page. For other enquiries, please contact us.

Raised garden beds in Wolverhampton

Why You Should Consider Raised Garden Beds

If you have never heard of raised-bed gardening before, it is a type of gardening where the plants and soil are raised above ground in raised garden beds, also referred to as plant or flower boxes. Often seen in home gardens, gardening centres and nurseries, these structures can be made from wooden, concrete or other materials. Whether you enjoy a bit of gardening in your own time or you are a newbie, there are many reasons why you should consider raised garden beds in your garden. 

Less Weeds

Raised garden beds allow less weed intrusion than in-ground gardening. If you fill raised garden beds with fresh weed-free soil, there is  less of a chance of weed growth, whereas native soil and in-ground garden beds can be prone to growing weeds. Covering raised garden beds with mulch can help prevent weeds. As raised garden beds are made from tall enclosed borders, this also helps prevent the infiltration of surrounding weeds. Another way of stopping weeds in their path is by placing a weed barrier such as weed control fabric or cardboard at the bottom of a raised bed, before filling it with soil. By simply using raised garden beds, you can enjoy a less-hassle and weed-free garden.

Less Pests

Similar to preventing weeds, raised garden beds add an extra layer of protection to plants against common pests. The borders and height of the raised garden bed acts as an obstacle for pests such as slugs, snails, caterpillars and other critters from eating and damaging plants. While this won’t completely stop pests (some are more determined than others), it gives gardeners a chance to spot them early and treat their plants with bug and insect repellant.

Your Back Will Thank You

With in-ground gardening, gardeners would have to till their soil year by year by turning the top layer of the soil and adding fertilisers such as compost, mulch and other soil conditioners to prepare it for planting. This can be time-consuming and backbreaking work. Generally, raised garden beds are available from 8 inches to 17 inches tall, depending on what plants you want to set. Using raised garden beds will save your back from strain and other back problems because you won’t need to get down to ground level to care for your plants. 

Improves Garden Appearance

You can’t deny raised garden beds make a garden look attractive, neat and tidy. With in-ground garden beds, soil can look scattered and disorganised. Raised garden beds keep soil in place, leaving pathways cleaner and easier to maintain. Wooden raised garden beds can blend in seamlessly into natural surroundings. If the appearance of your garden is something you want to improve, you should consider using raised garden beds. 

Raised Garden Beds From Weston Sawmill

Less weeds and pests, better for your back and improved garden appearance are only a few reasons why you should consider raised garden beds. If you’re looking for an easy and effective gardening solution, look no further than high-quality wooden raised garden beds from Weston Sawmill. Our range has a variety of sizes including 1.8m x 1.8m x 150 mm x 22mm thick boards or 3m x 1.5m x 450mm x 75mm thick boards. Our taller options are ideal for plenty of space for deep roots to grow. Deeper roots mean bigger and more luscious plants! 
You can visit us in Weston-Under-Lizard, we have a selection of examples on display to see for yourself and our team is on hand to assist you with any queries. We can arrange local and nationwide delivery. Alternatively, you can contact us for more information.

Weston Sawmill Pergulos

How To Prepare Your Pergola For Winter

As the temperatures gradually begin to drop and the evenings begin to get shorter, it can only mean that winter is just around the corner. Many homeowners prepare their homes for winter by power washing their driveway, cleaning their gutters, weeding their gardens, disposing of withered plants – the list goes on! However, one specific job that most homeowners forget to add to their to-do list is preparing their pergola for the winter, if they happen to have one. Some people might say this is unnecessary, but by doing so, you’re choosing to leave your pergola vulnerable to harsh rain and wind conditions throughout the whole winter, raising the chances of potential damage.

The good news is, there is no need to dismantle your pergola to winter-proof it. In this article, we discuss 4 ways to prepare your pergola for winter. When you make the investment of building a pergola in your garden, it only makes sense to maintain it properly at the end of each autumn to ensure it’s still standing on all four legs the following spring!

1) Apply A Wood Stain

Most, if not all pergolas are made from sawn timber, known to be sturdy and blend naturally into your surroundings. However, timber can start to rot and decay if it’s overexposed to rainy conditions over a long period of time. If you want to keep your pergola in good condition, you should consider applying a wood stain or a treatment suitable for pergolas. These are designed to add a protective coating against UV rays, moisture and temperature changes, as well as prevent colour fade and banish the growth of mould and algae.

2) Cover Your Pergola 

For those who want to keep their pergola as dry as possible during the winter months, the best way to achieve this is to add a covering. Luckily, there are different types of waterproof canopies and plastic side curtains available. With a canopy, you can still lounge out under your pergola and stay dry while watching the rain. Plus, a canopy will add some rain protection to your pergola. Make sure to secure your canopy properly and check it after stormy conditions, as strong winds can loosen or completely detach it from the pergola.

3) Install Gutters

Another way to prepare your pergola for the winter is to install a gutter system, similar to what you have around the exterior of your house. Gutters will redirect rainfall from the pergola, prevent rain buildup from dripping down the sides of it and protect the foundation of the pergola and its surroundings from flooding. However, everyone’s garden foundation varies. If your pergola sits on a downward slope or is surrounded by concrete, you may not need gutters.

4) Add A Heat Source 

If you’re planning on using your pergola throughout the winter, adding a heating source will keep you and your family or friends toasty during the cold temperatures. There is a wide selection of heat sources to choose from such as a fire pit, infrared heaters and other outdoor heaters. With one of these heat sources under your pergola, you can enjoy all that it has to offer, even in the coldest winter!

Beautiful Pergolas By Weston Sawmill

By following these steps, your pergola will withstand the winter ahead and provide long-lasting decoration to your garden. If you don’t have a pergola, you are missing out on its fantastic benefits. On the other hand, you might have an old pergola that’s not looking its best or has damaged parts – in this case, you might want to create or replace them with pergolas from Weston Sawmill in Weston-Under-Lizard, Shropshire. 

Our range of wooden pergola parts include crossbeams from 1.8 to 3.6 metres, legs from 2.4 or 3 metres, rafters from 2.4 to 4.8 metres and straight or curved corner braces. We cater our pergolas to match your specific requirements. We can manufacture beautiful pergolas of any size, from intimate and cosy structures to larger or more unusual outdoor living spaces. We can also arrange delivery to your home. For more information or a free quotation, please get in touch by making an online enquiry or calling us on 01952 850 383 today.

Closed Boarded Fencing

10 Ideas For Decorative Fencing

The main purpose of garden fencing is to provide security and privacy while keeping out uninvited guests such as neighbours’ pets and stray animals. With summer fast approaching, now is the best time to change up your garden and get it ready for outdoor casual gatherings and the all important garden parties. One of the best ways to transform a garden is to install a new fence. Fencing may not be the main focus or feature of a garden but fencing can change the look of a whole garden in terms of design, colour and theme.

We already know most fencing is made from wood but there are many styles to choose from, depending on what suits your garden and its surroundings. For the latest fencing ideas, you have come to the right place! In this article, we will share 10 fantastic ideas for decorative fencing. Read on to discover a range of practical and stylish fencing styles and designs for whatever your garden style is!

1) Paling

A paling fence looks similar to the picket fence where wooden vertical boards or panels are evenly disturbed supported by two wooden horizontal rails. The tops of a paling fence can be either pointed for added security or round for a smooth finish. If you’re looking for a traditional fence style that allows sunlight and air to pass through to help with plant and lawn growth, opt for a paling fence. Our paling panels come in a natural wood colour, giving you the freedom to paint them whatever colour you like, whether that be black, grey or white (if you want to achieve the ‘white picket fence’ look).

2) Post and Rail

Another traditional style is post and rail fencing. As the name suggests, it is made up of solid round timber poles with three or four horizontal rails fastened to the poles. This fencing style is generally seen around homes with larger garden spaces. Post and rail fencing is ideal for larger gardens as it’s cost effective and easy to install. Of course, that’s not saying you can install this style of fencing in smaller gardens if you are looking for cost effective fencing or to achieve a rustic country feel. It doesn’t offer as much privacy as close boarded fencing but it’s great for marking out your property and keeping out farm animals.

3) Close Boarded

If you are looking for a fence that offers more privacy than a paling fence, go for a close boarded fence. Like the name suggests, the vertical panels are positioned closer together. Our close boarded fencing panels are designed to be both strong and durable in all weather conditions. They require little maintenance and in the case of unexpected damage, the damaged panels are easy to replace.

4) Garden Trellis

If you have solid fencing and are looking to allow more sunlight in, trellis fencing may be the one for you. Instead of long vectical boards, trellis fencing is shaped in lattice patterns. Choose between square or diamond styles to create the ideal surface for climbing plants to grow upwards. You could, of course, add a trellis top to a solid fence or wall. This adds height without compromising too much on sunlight. 

5) Overlapping

If your home is located in a busy urban area, you may wish to install a solid fence in your garden to block out any prying neighbours. This overlap fence is a softer approach to a solid fence or a stone wall, without making it feel too enclosed. The slim gaps between the slatted panels allows a glimpse of your surroundings without completely blocking out your view and still offering enough privacy.

6) Hit and Miss

Hit and miss fencing features panels on both the front and the back. Keep your neighbours happy too and avoid potential conflict by going with a hit-and-miss fence. Its smart design looks great on both sides of the fence. This means you and your neighbour both have a decorative side. The slatted design allows some light and air to pass through the slim gaps, making it durable during windy conditions. 

7) Woven

If you are looking for a modern fence, a woven fence consists of horizontal boards weaving in and out of three vertical panels. Its textured finish offers both privacy and an attractive appearance. The woven design illustrates the effect of a natural willow or hazel hurdle fence panel.

8) Horizontal

Instead of a traditional vertical fence, the arrangement of the panels on a horizontal fence is intended to stretch across your garden, rather than upwards. This helps to visually lengthen the appearance of the fence, making your garden look bigger. This makes it an ideal fence style for smaller gardens.

9) Curved

Most traditional fences are straight at the top whereas curved fences are either dome or wave shaped. It has the same benefits of straight fencing systems but with a creative twist. Being both practical at providing privacy while adding elegance and softer edging. Having a curved fence in your garden will be sure to grab the attention of home guests and curious neighbours.

10) Rustic

As we already mentioned post and rail fencing can add a rustic feel, and so can other styles of rustic fencing. Our rustic panel fencing is made up of authentic timber poles, the perfect addition to create a rustic garden. If you look at it closely, you can see tree markings and natural texture on the fence poles. Generally, rustic fencing is left with its original colour or is painted with earthy shades such as greens and browns so that the fence blends in nicely with its greenery surroundings.

Decorative Fencing At Weston Sawmill

We hope this article has helped you narrow down on the different fencing styles and ideas. No matter what your garden looks like, there is a style of fence to complete it. All of our fencing at Weston Sawmill is pressure treated which prolongs the lifetime of the timber. This means our fencing will last you for years to come. 
For your convenience, our fence panels come in a range of sizes and we also offer a made-to-measure service. Whether you’re looking for a low fence to protect your vegetable patch or a high fence to keep young children and pets enclosed, you can order your chosen fence style online or visit our lumber and nursery yard in Shropshire to browse our range in person.

Weston Sawmill Pergulos

5 Reasons You Need A Pergola In Your Garden

While fencing and decking are seen as a must for any garden, there are also other garden structures that also add to the space. To some people, pergolas may not be essential. However, you could be missing out on the benefits of having a pergola. In this article, we will go through the top 5 reasons why you need a pergola in your garden.

1. Expands Your Living Space

Adding a pergola can take a garden to a whole new level. Just like decking, it can expand your living space and it can help increase the amount of time you spend outdoors. If you already have a walkway, a patio or decking in your garden that is missing something, placing a pergola over a flat, uncovered space can create the ultimate outdoor dining experience, as if you were dining at an al fresco restaurant in Italy. You wouldn’t believe you’re still in the comfort of your home!

2. Provides Shade

In the summer, a pergola can provide a decent amount of shade from the sun. As it doesn’t have glass windows like a conservatory, a pergola allows you to stay cool by letting you feel the playful movement of a summer breeze. If you want more shade and protection from the sun, there is always the option of installing a canopy or retractable shade cover on top.

3. Perfect For Entertaining

Aside from the ultimate dining area, a garden space with a pergola creates a stage-like feature, perfect for entertaining guests. If you love hosting garden parties or even enjoy having casual gatherings now and again, under the shade of a pergola makes the perfect lounge area for sipping on an ice-cold beverage while you catch up with family or friends.

4. Increases Home Value

Investing in a pergola can increase the amount of time you spend outdoors but it can also increase the value of your home. According to experts, a well-maintained garden with improvements can add up to 20% to your property value. Unlike gazebos, pergolas are far more affordable but still adding extra value to your outdoor space. This makes it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell your home in the future.

5. Makes A Beautiful Focal Point

If you have an interest in gardening, you will enjoy this reason. If you are thinking of a new place to hang plants, the strong wooden beams and legs of a pergola are ideal for growing climbing plants and vines such as rambling roses, honeysuckle, grape vines, ivy and clematis. The intertwining of these plants creates additional space and it is simply a beautiful focal point. Plants aren’t the only thing you add to the beams and legs, fairy lights are also great at creating a magical setting.

Made-To-Measure Pergolas At Weston Sawmill

As you now know, there are plenty of reasons why you need to get a pergola for your garden. To summarise, pergolas are beautiful, versatile, easy to install, and affordable. What more can you ask from a garden structure? At Weston Sawmill, we craft our pergolas to match our customer’s exact requirements. We also offer delivery and most of our products can be installed on-site by us if you prefer.

If you wish to make an enquiry about our pergolas, please call us on 01952 850383 or visit our sawmill and nursery yard in Weston under Lizard, Shropshire.

Beautiful yellow decking on someone's back garden

Advantages Of Having Decking For Your Home

As we get closer and closer to Spring, temperatures will rise once again. Households around the UK will be able to enjoy the sunshine and spend more time in their gardens. One of the best ways to make the most of warmer weather at home is outdoor dining and lounging out on the decking area.

Have you considered decking for your garden? If not, well, this article might change your mind. We will go through the main advantages of having decking and why it’s well worth the investment. Continue reading to find out why. 

Creates More Functional Space

Decking can be built to suit any garden and any specifications, making it a very versatile investment. If you have uneven ground in your garden, building a raised deck across it will level it out as well as making that space more useful to you. Install decking as a main feature of your favourite garden spot or extend your home with an outdoor decked dining area right outside your back door.

Increases Home Value

Experts say decking can increase the value of your home by up to 10%. Having a deck area can boost your home’s curb appeal, attract potential buyers, and raise the asking price if you ever wish to put your house on the market. A well-installed deck is hard to come by and homeowners always look out for extra value when purchasing a property.

Low Maintenance

Having a deck doesn’t mean more work and maintenance for you. In fact, decking requires little maintenance. All that needs to be done is regular sweeping and a power wash two times a year to lift any stubborn dirt and debris. The good thing about timber decking is it can also be repainted when it needs a refresh to keep it looking its best.

Durable

All our decking boards are pressure treated which improves its durability. This means the boards are coated with a protective level to enhance the timber’s protection from water, UV rays, mould, and insects. This preservative process involves placing the timber boards in a vacuum chamber, which removes all the air within the timber. Once completed, chemical preservatives are forced deep into the wood fibres.

Easy To Install

Decking is a good alternative to a stone patio as it’s a cheaper home improvement and easier to install. However, being cheaper and easier to install doesn’t affect the value decking can bring and transform your garden. Early Spring is a perfect time to install decking, just as the evenings get brighter for longer and before the weather starts to improve.

Decking In Staffordshire, Shropshire, and Wolverhamtpon 

At Weston Sawmill, we pride ourselves on being a supplier of high-quality wooden gates, panel fencing, and pressure treated decking for households across Staffordshire, Shropshire, and Wolverhampton.

Our decking boards are available in different sizes, ranging from 3 to 4.8 metres. We also offer a free quotation for all of our products, so please contact us or visit our shop in Weston-Under-Lizard.

A pile of sawn timber

How Can Sawn Timber Be Used?

Sawn timber is timber that is cut from logs into different shapes and sizes. Sawn timber is usually cut into varying rectangular widths and lengths. Common products made from sawn timber include solid timber beams and posts. These sawn timber products have many purposes. In this article by Weston Sawmill, we will explain how sawn timber can be used outside your home or business.

What is Pressure Treated Sawn Timber?

When timber is pressure treated, this means that the timber will not be prone to rotting or decaying when compared to untreated timber wood. Pressure treated timber is great for outdoor and garden products that are expected to remain outdoors all year round. When timber is treated they can usually handle any harsh weather conditions.

What Is It Used For?

Sawn timber is an essential building material for both small DIY projects and outdoor construction work. It gives you the flexibility to cut, modify, and finish your timber to suit your home or business. It can be used indoors for the construction of pitched roofs, skirting, and floorboards. 

For outdoors, sawn timber can be used for roof soffits, fascia’s, cladding, guttering, and external loading timbers. If you’re looking to revamp your garden landscaping then you can also make new bespoke garden furniture, fencing, decking, and timber screens out of sawn timber products.

Sawn Timber Products At Weston Sawmill

With so many purposes, pressure treated sawn timber from Weston Sawmill is low-maintenance and perfect for non-structural internal work where a planned finish is not necessary. We offer a wide range of heavy duty sawn timber products such as posts, rails, and feather edge boards in different sizes. Our range allows you to find the perfect fit for your project. For more information, please contact us today.

Maintaining Your Real Christmas Tree

How to Maintain Your Real Christmas Tree

The spirit of Christmas starts with putting up the tree. Many of us enjoy the appearance of a real tree and the fresh-cut evergreen scent filling our living rooms. It is an iconic Christmas smell.

However, if you’re choosing a real Christmas tree this year, you’ll want it to stay fresh for as long as possible. With proper maintenance, it will look full and healthy instead of droopy and wilt. To keep it in its best condition, here are our expert tips for looking after your Christmas tree as well as tips on how to get the most out of your tree this festive season. 

Trim the Trunk 

Once you have purchased a Christmas tree, make sure it gets a straight cut across the base of the trunk. This helps with water absorption and removes any dried resin that could stop the tree from absorbing fresh water. 

We recommend purchasing your tree as early as possible. Taking it out of its netting on the same day to allow it to simply drop before decorating. If you are not putting your tree up straight away, place it in a bucket of water. When it’s time to bring it indoors, trim another one inch off the trunk. Next, secure the tree in a sturdy tree stand that can hold at least one gallon of water.

Regularly Water Your Tree 

After all, a Christmas tree is still a plant and it needs water just like any other plant does. Regularly watering keeps your tree nice and plump. Make sure to check the water level everyday. Not enough water causes your tree to become dehydrated and resin to form. This means your tree will not absorb fresh water and can lead to drying too fast. To find out how much water your tree needs, fill the stand with one quart of water for every inch of the trunk’s diameter.

Keep Away from Heat

A Christmas tree next to a fireplace creates a beautiful and cosy setting. However, this can make your tree dry out quicker than normal. This also applies to direct sunlight, radiators, and stoves. In fact, if you lower the room temperature, this will slow down the drying process and result in your tree needing less water overall.

Disposing of Your Tree

As much as we would love to keep our real tree up forever, that’s simply not an option. If you hold off on this task, you will have more dead pine needles to clean up after. When the time comes to take your tree down, you have the choice of recycling it by turning it into firewood or you can take it to a recycling centre that gets rid of old Christmas trees.

Christmas Trees in Shropshire At Weston Sawmill

With hundreds of freshly cut Christmas trees in all sizes to choose from here in Shropshire, you’ll be sure to find the one at Weston Sawmill. We’re open 7 days a week up until Christmas. We stock trees from 3 to 15 ft. Prices start from just £20, which is better value than last year! For more information on our Christmas trees, read our Christmas Tree Guide or get in touch with us.