Category: DIYs

Winter-proofing Your Guttering

As the mercury dips and winter takes hold, it’s time to turn our attention to an often overlooked aspect of home maintenance – winter-proofing our roof guttering. At Kennings.co.uk, we appreciate the unique challenges posed by the cold season, and we’re here to guide you through the essential steps to ensure your gutters are winter-ready.

First and foremost, clear any obstructions from your gutters. Autumn leaves, twigs, and other debris can cause blockages, impeding the free flow of rainwater or melting snow. A blocked gutter in the winter can lead to water freezing within it, causing potential cracks and damage.

Next, consider installing a gutter guard. These devices help to keep out larger debris, reducing the need for frequent cleanings. They’re particularly useful in the winter months when harsh weather conditions can make gutter maintenance more difficult.

Finally, it’s worth considering the installation of heat tape along your gutters and downpipes. This can be a game-changer in preventing ice dams from forming. By maintaining a slightly above freezing temperature, heat tapes can ensure water keeps flowing instead of freezing and causing damage.

At Kennings.co.uk, we offer a range of guttering solutions and winter-proofing products designed to withstand the harsh British winter. Visit our website www.kennings.co.uk to explore our range and equip yourself for winter. Remember, timely upkeep could save you a significant amount in avoidable repairs. #WinterProofing #KenningsUK ❄️🏠🛠️

C16 vs C24 Timber: Understanding the Differences

When it comes to embarking on DIY construction projects, choosing the right type of timber is crucial. Among the various options available in the market, C16 and C24 timber are commonly used due to their strength and durability. However, there are significant differences between these two grades of timber that can greatly impact your project’s outcome. In this article, we will delve into the distinctions between C16 and C24 timber, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and requirements.

What is C16 Timber?

C16 timber is a popular choice for construction projects that do not require high load-bearing capabilities. It is widely used for applications such as stud walls, non-structural framing, and internal joinery work. The grading system of C16 timber ensures its suitability for general-purpose use while still maintaining structural integrity.

Characteristics of C16 Timber

C16 timber possesses several noteworthy characteristics:

1. Strength: While not as strong as its counterpart, C24 timber, C16 timber still provides sufficient strength for many common construction applications.

2. Appearance: One aspect to consider with C16 timber is its visual qualities. It may contain more visible defects compared to higher-grade timbers like C24.

3. Cost-effective: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, then C16 timber fits the bill perfectly.

Introducing C24 Timber

C24 timber represents a premium grade of wood that offers enhanced structural capabilities and an overall superior product. This grade is typically used in projects where higher loads or greater spans are required, such as roof trusses or floor joists.

Key Features of C24 Timber

C24 timber boasts several key features that set it apart:

1. Strength and Durability: With a higher load-bearing capacity than its counterparts, C24 timber ensures structural stability and long-lasting performance.

2. Appearance: Compared to C16 timber, C24 timber generally has fewer visible defects and a more uniform appearance, making it an excellent choice for projects where aesthetics matter.

3. Versatility: From large-scale construction projects to intricate woodworking, C24 timber offers versatility in its application due to its strength and durability.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of C16 and C24 timber let’s explore their specific uses and limitations in more detail.

Applications of C16 Timber

C16 timber is commonly used in a wide range of DIY construction projects that do not require heavy load-bearing capabilities. Some common applications include:

1. Stud Walls: C16 timber is often used for creating stud walls within buildings, providing structural stability while separating spaces effectively.

2. Non-structural Framing: For non-load-bearing purposes like door frames or window casings, C16 timber is an ideal choice due to its cost-effectiveness and adequate strength.

3. Internal Joinery Work: From shelves to cabinets, C16 timber can be utilized for various internal joinery applications where high structural strength is not a primary concern.

While C16 timber offers sufficient strength for many DIY projects, it may not be suitable for applications that require heavy loads or long spans. This is where the superior qualities of C24 timber come into play.

Advantages of Choosing C24 Timber

C24 timber provides several advantages over lower-grade timbers when it comes to structural integrity and versatility:

1. Load-Bearing Capabilities: Due to its enhanced strength properties, C24 timber is well-suited for projects that require higher load-bearing capabilities such as floor joists or roof trusses.

2. Longevity: The superior durability of C24 timber ensures that your construction project will stand the test of time without compromising on safety or stability.

3. Aesthetic Appeal: With fewer visible defects and a more uniform appearance, C24 timber lends itself to projects where the visual aspect is of utmost importance, such as exposed beams or decorative elements.

It’s important to note that while C24 timber offers numerous advantages, it may come at a higher cost compared to lower-grade alternatives. However, the enhanced performance and longevity it provides often justify the investment.

Conclusion

In summary, both C16 and C24 timber have their unique strengths and applications in the realm of DIY construction. While C16 timber serves well for general-purpose use and non-structural framing, C24 timber takes center stage when it comes to load-bearing capabilities and visual appeal. By understanding the differences between these two grades of timber, you can make an informed decision based on your project’s specific requirements. Whether you prioritize cost-effectiveness or structural superiority, choosing the right grade of timber will undoubtedly contribute to the success of your DIY endeavors.

How to make your garden Hedgehog Friendly

It’s no secret hedgehogs are declining at a rapid rate, so it’s important now more than ever to make your garden an environment these creatures can thrive in. Hedgehogs are very good at running, climbing and swimming. They will go into hibernation in cold winter weather, only emerging when conditions are warmer.

Their nests may be large, usually made of mosses, grass, leaves and other garden debris. They can be found at the base of thick hedges, under thick bramble bushes, in garden sheds or in piles of rubbish. It’s time to do your bit and make a desirable home for our hedgehog friends!

Encouraging hedgehogs

If you want hedgehogs, make your garden accessible for them! Cutting a hole in your fence on either side allows wildlife to roam freely in your garden, this way they can wander from neighbour to neighbour or even make a home in your garden. You should also make sure they have lots of thick dense undergrowth and a variety of lengths of grass to hide and nest in. You can also make your garden a hot spot for the slugs, snails and bugs that hedgehogs like to munch on (if you don’t care about your plants!)

If you want to leave out food for hedgehogs, avoid milk and bread, as hedgehogs cannot digest them. Leave hedgehog food, complete cat biscuits or meaty cat or dog food.

Protecting hedgehogs

Building boxes, growing wildlife-friendly gardens and providing food go a long way towards helping hedgehog numbers, but there are other ways that we can help to protect these prickly mammals:

  • Avoid using chemicals like slug pellets. Instead, use beer or obstacles around the plants you’re trying to protect.
  • Use natural non-toxic preservatives, as hedgehogs often lick new smells and surfaces.
  • Always check bonfires, piles of leaves, grass cuttings, compost heaps and bags of rubbish before burning, mowing, forking or disposing of any of them.
  • If you have a pond, make sure you provide platforms and sloped routes out of the water. Hedgehogs like to drink from ponds and can sometimes fall in. Although they’re good swimmers, it can be dangerous not to have a quick exit. 
  • Keep an eye on curious dogs in the garden late at night. Neither dog nor hedgehog will come off well from an encounter with each other!
  • If you accidentally disturb an active hedgehog nest, carefully replace the material. The hedgehog will soon move the nest elsewhere. If there are young still in the nest, avoid touching them.
  • If you come across a hibernating adult, try not to wake it. If you do, leave some food and water nearby until it hibernates again. 

Build a hedgehog home

An alternative way to give hedgehogs a home in your garden is with a hedgehog home. If you want to build your hedgehog house from scratch, make sure you have the right amount of timber and follow this handy guide from the RSPB!

Once you’ve got your box and you’re ready to find a place for it in your garden, here are a few things to think about:

  • Place the box out of direct sunlight, with the entrance facing away from prevailing winds.
  • Put it in cover, under thick vegetation for example, or under the garden shed. 
  • If you know where a hedgehog has built its own nest in the past, consider putting your new one there, or in a similar environment.
  • Resist the temptation to keep removing the lid to check if the box is being used. It’s always best not to disturb any potential hedgehog residents. 

It may take a year for a hedgehog to take up home in your box, or it may not happen at all. This is nothing to worry about, as it could mean that they’ve found suitable natural nesting sites in your or the surrounding gardens.

Looking for hedgehog box supplies?

We also offer plenty of support and expert advice for most projects. Just pick up the phone or visit any of our 3 sites located in Goole & Gilberdyke.

At Kenning’s, you can not only expect a good deal but also:

Superfast FREE local delivery on most orders *

Handy FREE installation guides (and even instructional videos!)

Incredible prices on composite decking (and frequent big discounts!)

*Free delivery applies to most of the East Riding, but some areas may incur a charge. Minimum charge applies, contact us for more details.

**Prices all correct at the time of writing

Make your home unique with cedar shingles

Looking to make your home stand out in the crowd? Cedar shingles may be the answer for you! They’re environmentally conscious, look fantastic and offer waterproof protection from all elements for up to 20 years. These fantastic shingles age beautifully, they will adopt a pleasant silvery grey shade over time so your home can keep looking amazing for years to come! Take a look at our blog for some great applications in your home.

Wall cladding cedar shingles

Cedar shingles make for great cladding thanks to their durability. They’re good at insulating thanks to their waterproof features and with such a long warranty they’re a wise investment and since they require little to no maintenance they’re an easy way to make your house stand out without a second thought! And, as a bonus, they come already treated against rot and decay so you only need to attach them. If you want your home to look rustic and bold, these shingles are for you!

Aged cedar shingles turn a beautiful grey.
Credit: Remodelista on Pinterest

Cedar shingle outdoor playhouse

It can be difficult to find a playhouse to match your garden’s aesthetic, many children’s garden play areas are made from bright coloured plastics which can be an eyesore. If you want your playhouse to last, these shingles will provide you with a durable guarantee to last through playtime for years to come. Take a look at this amazing creation from @callyprojects on Instagram, you can even find the fitting and building instructions on @instructables!

Cedar shingle roofing

Cedar shingles are a fantastic roofing solution. You get a perfect waterproof solution whilst incorporating the good looking element of the shingles. The wood is naturally insect and rot-resistant so it requires little to no maintenance. This element is ideal for a roof because a lot of upkeep may mean leaking and it can be difficult to maintain roofing without hiring a professional. As long as you have roofing underneath these shingles your roof will be secure and they won’t need to be replaced for many years.

Credit: @withbearhandsuk on Instagram

Find these cedar shingles and more at Kenning’s Building Supplies

We also offer plenty of support and expert advice for most projects. Just pick up the phone or visit any of our 3 sites located in Goole & Gilberdyke.

At Kenning’s, you can not only expect a good deal but also:

Superfast FREE local delivery on most orders *

Handy FREE installation guides (and even instructional videos!)

Incredible prices on composite decking (and frequent big discounts!)

*Free delivery applies to most of the East Riding, but some areas may incur a charge. Minimum charge applies, contact us for more details.

**Prices all correct at time of writing

Easy ideas to help transform your garden

If you’re looking to transform your garden this new year it can be difficult to know where to start. Here at Kenning’s, we carry a wide range of products that are easy to build and look wonderful any time of the year – so why not get ahead of the summer rush and have your garden ready for the first warm days of the year?

Landscape your garden with aggregates

Using aggregates in your garden is a great way to make an area zen and it’s incredibly simple to lay them! Who doesn’t want an amazing transformation that only takes a few hours? Here at Kenning’s, we have a wide range of aggregates everything you need to lay them. If you don’t like gardening or just want a low maintenance garden that looks good all year round, this easy DIY might be the one for you.

Lay artificial grass

Are you excited for the summer but worried about maintaining the grass? Artificial grass is the answer to your problems. It works perfectly with children and animals and is a great alternative to real grass without the hassle of maintenance and mess that can be produced in wet weather conditions. You can shop our wide range on our website and even get a bouncy underlay for that real grass feel!

Create a secluded seating area

Pergolas and decking work together perfectly to create a separate seating area in gardens. We sell a wide variety of different decking and pergolas so you can find your perfect match, we even give you fitting instructions so the hassle is taken out of the DIY! These simple structures are very effective and give an element of separation in gardens, which is ideal for busy homes with children or animals.

Replace your garden fencing

Fencing is the first thing you see in a garden, so it has to look great. We recently launched some brand new contemporary fencing so you have even more choice. Replacing fencing doesn’t have to be costworthy, we have plenty of budget panels to suit your needs. And, if you feel like your fencing could benefit from a simple repaint to bring it back to life, you can shop our range of fence stains here!

Find these products and more at Kenning’s Building Supplies

We also offer plenty of support and expert advice for most projects. Just pick up the phone or visit any of our 3 sites located in Goole & Gilberdyke.

At Kenning’s, you can not only expect a good deal but also:

Superfast FREE local delivery on most orders *

Handy FREE installation guides (and even instructional videos!)

Incredible prices on composite decking (and frequent big discounts!)

*Free delivery applies to most of the East Riding, but some areas may incur a charge. Minimum charge applies, contact us for more details.

**Prices all correct at time of writing

Easy garden DIYs you need to try

Gardening can be great for the mind and your garden is an important place. Keeping it clear and beautiful is a great way to spend time, and if you enjoy DIYs, you’re in for a treat. In this blog, we’re going to share some garden DIYs you can easily complete over the weekend!

Wooden garden path

This beautiful path is simple yet effective and incredibly easy to make at home. You can use any wood that you feel matches your home since we have such a wide range of discount wood products here at Kennings. However, we recommend using our sawn sleepers. They are treated to fight insect, fungi attacks and also help to prevent wet and dry rot. Not only that, but they have a beautiful rustic look. If you want to copy the landscaping below, we recommend using some of our decorative aggregates, these are available in many different colours and textures to match your garden’s aesthetic!

Credit: DIYJoy on Pinterest

Gutter planter

Gutter planters are a fantastic way to reuse old guttering for an environmentally friendly planter – however, if you simply love the look we have a wide range of low-cost guttering on our website. This easy build is also great to use as a divider on a wall for added privacy if you use hanging plants and is much easier to maintain than a trellis, it’s cheaper too!

Credit: Homeandgardeningideas on Pinterest

Raised brick flower bed

Raised flower beds can be expensive and often don’t fit with your home but with our wide range of bricks here at Kennings you’re sure to find the perfect match! This DIY is so easy, you’ll feel like you’ve done nothing at all, and want to do another one on this list. All you need are your bricks and some mortar, form your shape and apply the mortar, you’ll be more than pleased with the results.

Credit: Flowergardengirl on Pinterest

Timber grid trellis

A shop-made trellis can set you back a lot of money, but we have a cheap and easy garden DIY alternative – plus you get all the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself! We have lots of cheap treated timber that’s pressure treated to last up to 15 years. It also creates an effective barrier to infestation by insects and fungi, so your trellis is built to last. Simply line up the pieces and either screw them in or glue them with wood glue!

credit: Francois on Pinterest

Find these easy garden DIYs and more at Kennings Building Supplies

We also offer plenty of support and expert advice for most projects. Just pick up the phone or visit any of our 3 sites located in Goole & Gilberdyke.

At Kenning’s you can not only expect a good deal but also:

Superfast FREE local delivery on most orders *

Handy FREE installation guides (and even instructional videos!)

Incredible prices on composite decking (and frequent big discounts!)

*Free delivery applies to most of the East Riding, but some areas may incur a charge. Minimum charge applies, contact us for more details.

**Prices all correct at time of writing

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