A Straightforward Guide to Timber in DIY: What You Need for Your Next Project
Guide to Timber in DIY – If you’re a DIY enthusiast, Harlow Bros Timber Supplies is a name you should know. With nearly 90 years of experience in the industry, they offer a wide range of timber products to suit all kinds of projects. Whether you need sturdy structural timber for construction or smooth, polished boards for finishing touches, Harlow Bros has you covered. Their extensive selection and trusted reputation make them a top choice for both professionals and DIYers alike. Let’s explore some of their must-have products for your next project!
Guide to Timber in DIY
- C16 Kiln Dried Carcassing Timber: Essential for construction, this timber is ideal for structural frames in sheds, decking, or garden offices. The C16 rating ensures strength and durability, while kiln-drying minimises warping and splitting. Treated to resist insects and decay, it’s perfect for outdoor use.
- Planed All Round (PAR) Timber: For a smooth, polished finish, PAR timber is perfect. Planed on all sides, it’s great for visible projects like shelving, furniture, or trim. It’s ready for staining, painting, or varnishing, adding a refined touch to any DIY project.
- Plywood Sheets: Plywood is a versatile staple, ideal for furniture, cabinets, and flooring. Its layered construction resists cracking, shrinking, and warping. Harlow Bros offers cutting services to tailor to your exact specifications.
- OSB (Oriented Strand Board): A cost-effective alternative to plywood, OSB is durable and strong, suitable for wall sheathing, roofing, and subflooring. Its rugged texture adds rustic charm, making it ideal for sheds and partition walls.
- Decking Boards: Designed for outdoor use, these pressure-treated boards resist rot and insects. Perfect for creating durable decks or outdoor living areas, they provide a solid foundation for any project.

Why Harlow Bros are Timber Suppliers You Can Trust
In late 2021, Harlow Bros announced plans to transition to an employee-owned trust, a move that aims to maintain the family-oriented values which have defined the company for 90 years, while ensuring long-term sustainability and independence. This shift reflects Harlow Bros’ dedication to its employees and their future, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the workforce.
For DIYers, this commitment means you’re not just buying timber; you’re supporting a company that values quality, community, and sustainable business practices. With Harlow Bros, you get access to a wide range of high-quality timber products, backed by nearly a century of expertise and a team that truly cares about helping you succeed in your DIY projects no matter how complicated or simple. For example, One DIYer in the Sun Newspaper fixed up her garden fence in quite a savvy way with black PVC strips, which is something Harlow Bros sells many variants of in differing widths and lengths.

Overall
Picking the right materials is crucial for any DIY project. And with Harlow Bros, you have access to anything Timber related. They have got everything you need to turn your DIY dreams into reality. Just like this project on BBC News, which highlights how online DIY tutorials can lead to people ‘building their dream home.’ It really is down to your willpower, dream and determination.

The Home Renovation Shows Team is led by property experts dedicated to the full lifecycle of building management—from the grit of a structural overhaul to the precision of professional operational hygiene. With a focus on sustainable maintenance and data-driven property care, the team provides actionable insights for both homeowners and business leaders. Whether navigating a DIY renovation or optimizing a commercial workspace, their mission is to ensure every square foot is functional, healthy, and built to last.